Intro to ABCD - Lunch Box Conversation Session

This will be a participatory 1 hour, bring your lunch and a cuppa conversation session.

In this one our session we will start the conversation on “What is Asset Based Community Development’, in this interactive one-hour session we will chat about shifting the focusing to what’s strong, not what’s wrong in community, the role of organisations and government in community development and the differences between Social Service delivery to community building.

Many of the current challenges faced by individuals and communities require transformational change! How does asset-based community development (ABCD) build communities from the inside out by tapping into the gifts and strengths of everyone?



“Every single person has skills, abilities and gifts”. John McKnight

Who's the workshop for?

Anyone who wants to explore the power of collective creativity and collaboration with each other and within their communities:

• Community development workers and engagement leaders, policy officers and program managers

• Business leaders and social entrepreneurs

• Community and not for profit leaders, community organisers, and their teams

• Next generation leaders and other young activists

Your facilitators for this event are;

Harley Ames, Harley is a Community Builder and Facilitator on the Board of Directors at Jeder, with a diverse background spanning dance, high-end hairdressing, and medical governance. Now based in Perth, he brings creativity, leadership, and strategic thinking to his work in coaching and Asset Based Community Development (ABCD), with a focus on asset mapping and project design. He believes meaningful change emerges from within communities and that community development thrives in the “wibbly wobbliness” rather than in straight lines.

Deeply involved in the LGBTQIA+ sector, Harley serves on several boards and committees, advocating for equity, inclusion, and law reform. Committed to continuous learning, he sees every facilitation and coaching opportunity as a chance to grow and adapt. Embracing the Four Fold Practice helps him stay grounded and intentional, supporting his belief that strong communities are built through collaboration, reflection, and tapping into shared strengths.

Chontelle Jannese is an experienced and passionate facilitator with a diverse background spanning 20 years in disabilities, mental health, sexuality, and supporting remote communities. Her work is driven by a strong commitment to person-centred approaches that empower individuals and build stronger, more inclusive communities. As a Project Officer under the Partners in Recovery (PIR) initiative, Chontelle demonstrated exceptional skill in navigating complex service landscapes to connect people with the supports they need. Her deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the sector has been further enriched by her leadership in the Together Home program, where she worked to provide stable housing and wraparound supports to those experiencing homelessness across Western and Hinter NSW.

Chontelle’s extensive experience also includes working within the NDIS, where she has focused on ensuring people with disabilities can exercise choice and control over their supports. Her commitment to social justice and advocacy shines through in her facilitation work. She creates safe, inclusive spaces for conversation and learning, helping participants explore new ideas and solutions that foster resilience and wellbeing.

Beyond her professional life, Chontelle is an adventurous spirit with a love of cameleering and swimming. She enjoys exploring the Australian bush, always ready for a new adventure or a quiet moment reading by a campfire. These hobbies keep her grounded and inspired, bringing a unique energy and perspective to her facilitation style.

Steph Bitter is a young and enthusiastic individual, passionate about supporting people to realise and express the most authentic version of themselves. With a background as a writer, performing musician and songwriter, they studied a Diploma of Community Services to align their passion for rights and social justice with a love of connecting with people. Steph blends Asset-Based Community Development, Participatory Community Development, and Person-Centred practices to support individuals and communities to find belonging and create authentic meaning in their lives.