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Sydney • Adults 18–40 • NDIS Friendly

Meet the People Behind Mates That Matter

Behind every event, every shared experience and every new friendship is a passionate team dedicated to creating a welcoming and supportive community.

We’re here to encourage, guide and support participants as they build confidence, develop meaningful relationships and enjoy new experiences.

Creating Welcoming Experiences Every Day

Community is at the heart of everything we do.
Our team works together to create safe, inclusive and engaging experiences where
participants feel comfortable being themselves, meeting new people and discovering new opportunities.

Whether you’re attending your first event or have been part of MTM for years, you’ll always be welcomed with encouragement, respect and genuine care.

Meet Our Leadership Team

Dan Drapac

Founder & CEO
Dan founded Mates That Matter with a vision of creating a community where adults could build meaningful friendships, develop confidence and experience a genuine sense of belonging. His passion continues to shape MTM's culture, ensuring every participant has opportunities to connect, grow and thrive.

Oliver Leanfore

Operations Manager
Oliver oversees the planning and coordination that keeps the MTM community running smoothly. Working closely with participants, families and the wider team, he helps create positive experiences that reflect MTM's welcoming and inclusive values.

Nhi Dang

Community Manager
Nhi leads the Echidnas community and works closely with participants to foster confidence, connection and personal growth. Her focus is on creating supportive experiences where meaningful friendships develop naturally.

MC Cital

Social Media & Community Engagement
MC captures the stories and moments that showcase the spirit of the MTM community. By celebrating participant achievements and everyday experiences, MC helps share the positive impact of genuine connection.

Riley Vaile

Lead Event Host & Staff Training
Riley supports the delivery of engaging events while mentoring the team to provide welcoming, inclusive and memorable participant experiences. His focus is on helping every participant feel comfortable, involved and encouraged throughout each event.

Our Event Hosts

Every Event Starts With a Friendly Face

Our Hosts are at every single event. They’re young, they’re into the same things our mates are into, and they’re trained to spot the person standing on the edge of the group.

They’re not support workers and they’re not instructors. They open the door — the friendships are yours.

One Team. One Community.

Every member of the MTM team shares the same purpose: creating opportunities where
people can connect, grow and feel part of something meaningful.
Together, we help participants build confidence, strengthen relationships and enjoy
experiences that contribute to greater independence and community participation.

Ready to start your journey? 

Whether you’re a participant, parent, carer or support coordinator, we’re here to help you find the right community and take the next step towards greater confidence, connection and independence. 

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