FitSkills21
FitSkills21 Manager
Nicole Bryson
Nicole has worked in the education sector for the last 25 years, as well as volunteering for local community groups including DSV.
Growing up with an aunt who has Down syndrome helped Nicole build a strong sense of justice and passion for voice. She is now a parent of a child with Down syndrome and aspires to bring about change to create an inclusive community.
Nicole feels privileged to work at DSV and is passionate about making a positive contribution to the DSV community.
Club21 Teens Coordinator & FitSkills21 Facilitator
Brad Cresswell
Brad joined DSV from Down Syndrome Queensland, with eight years under his belt as a dedicated volunteer through to a Program Coordinator specialising in early adult education.
He also played a key role in the creation of the UniLife program at Griffith University – a pioneering course designed specifically for young adults with Autism. Brad continues to serve as a board member and is active in the continued growth and success of this vital education offering.
Having recently relocated to Melbourne, Brad is excited to take on the challenge of Club21 Teens Coordinator, as well as group facilitator for FitSkills21.
Brad is passionate and committed to achieving inclusion and rights of people with disability.
Club21 & FitSkills21 Facilitator
Julia Mansour
Growing up with a sister with Down syndrome, it has always been a passion of mine to be an advocate for people with Down syndrome and those within the disability community. I am currently studying a degree in psychological sciences, and have worked in the social justice and care industry for over 10 years. I am feeling very excited to be able to join this wonderful organisation, and get to spend my time enjoying an array of different activities through Club21!
Adult Support Manager & FitSkills21 Facilitator
Debby Fraumano (she/her)
Debby is a social worker who has been working in a range of social services in Victoria for the last thirty years. She started out in family services supporting vulnerable families before specialising in disability. Debby has experience in working in direct service with people with disabilities, case management and advocacy, information sharing and training.
Debby is a parent of an adult with a disability, and as such also experiences the trials of the disability world, having firsthand experience of navigating the NDIS, health, housing, education, employment and ageing. Debby is also a keen equine enthusiast and loves spending time with her herd of horses.
Club21 Facilitator & FitSkills21 Facilitator
Ashleigh Clarke
Ashleigh first joined Down Syndrome Victoria as a placement student in 2024 while studying her Cert III in Individual Support at RMIT. Upon graduating she commenced employment with DSV as a casual facilitator of Fitskills, Club21 and MyTime play leader. In addition to being a disability support worker, Ashleigh has a background in Performing Arts. She holds a Bachelors’ degree in Music Theatre, does stand-up comedy as a hobby, and has worked in broadcast media (radio) for past 15 years; on-air, radio producing, and as a voiceover artist. But working with people with Down syndrome is much more fun!!
FitSkills21 Facilitator
Gavin Upton
For the past 6 years Gavin has worked in a specialist school setting, as a Youth & Education Support Worker with MacKillop Family Services for students who are disengaged, or at risk of disengaging from education.
Gavin is also a registered personal trainer and has been involved in the fitness industry for over 25 years. Growing up with his cousin who has Down syndrome, Gavin is passionate about supporting and empowering all individuals to live their best life.