Our Leading Ladies.
Tahnee.
Founder
After volunteering in an extensive hiking program with teenagers, to cross the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea, Tahnee witnessed the developmental benefits in teenagers when taking a break from their everyday school lifestyles & the screens. Through her own travels & experiences working with kids in care, Tahnee believes Australia is truly a blessed nation with access to some of the greatest opportunities in our own backyards. Passionate about supporting younger generations to create their own environments & opportunities through the power of their choices & empathy, she put the breaks on her studies in Psychology to develop this program. Holding these values & experiences close to her heart, this program is designed to encourage teenage girls to get into nature, find what matters to them most & connect with other teens who don’t make the screen.
Favourite Quote: “Happiness is a how, not a what”
Favourite Hike: It’s more about the company
Katelyn.
With a passion for supporting others and exploring our natural landscapes, Katelyn sees beyond just the physical benefits of hiking. Katelyn uses hiking as a tool to gain mental clarity, perspective and for self expansion. With a background in Exercise Science and Massage Therapy, Katelyn truly cares about creating a supportive environment for the girls to learn about the benefits of connecting to their own bodies and the natural world and disconnecting from technology. This program allows her to share her experiences in life and in hiking, and to create new memories with our inspiring group of girls. Katelyn is looking forward to supporting the girls getting out of their heads and into their hearts.
Favourite Quote: “If all else fails, return to nature”
Favourite Hike: Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
Chelsea.
Spending most of her childhood traveling from country to country with distance education. Chelsea has learnt the importance of self discipline & thriving in unknown territories. An ice skating champion Chelsea is dedicated to helping those find their independence, strength & courage to perform at their best. Our team saw many great qualities in Chelsea as a previous Hiking Heart participant, she is the first to return to our program as a leader.
Favourite Hike: Girraween
Leeanne.
Our Nurse mum of the pack. Leeanne is a qualified Registered Nurse who gives enormous amounts of her time working with community organisations, youth mentorship programs & a fitness fanatic. Leeanne has completed the PNG Kokoda Track nearly 4 times now. As a mother & grandmother Leeanne is extremely passionate about the world our young girls are growing up & experiencing today. She is an inspiration & her medicine magic will be sure to help you along the way when you need it most!
Teyla.
"Post-graduation, Teyla was still curious as to whether she could take her Bachelor of Education beyond a school environment and mix it with her love of the outdoors! Knowing she wanted to help, inspire and teach young people, she has since set off to find out what that might be and is enjoying the journey. Between the ebb and flow of life, Teyla has prioritised self-love and creating positive friendships and relationships; both with people and the natural world, close to home and far away! Teyla brings to the program a focus on building resilience, confidence and not taking life too seriously!
Favourite Quote: "Don't regret the things that made you strong" Matt Corby
Favourite Hike: "Bishop and Clerk, Tasmania - Maria Island