About Us

Journeys of Hope and Recovery: Discover LightHouse Connect Services

At Lighthouse Connect Services, we are dedicated to illuminating the paths of individuals with mental health concerns and disabilities. With over 16 years of unwavering commitment, we have been a guiding beacon of support, offering tailored solutions to foster resilience, independence, and holistic well-being.

As a trusted NDIS registered provider, our experience is matched only by our compassion. Join us on a journey of transformation, where every step is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Together, we navigate challenges, celebrate triumphs, and build a brighter future.

Guiding Minds, Inspiring Change: Meet Our Team

Committed professionals united by compassion, experience, and a shared mission to empower lives impacted by mental health and disabilities.

Sateesh Kanduri

Founder and Director of Lighthouse Connect Services

Sateesh is the Founder and Director of Lighthouse Connect Services. Sateesh is an exceptional individual who possesses a genuine passion for caring and serving others. With extensive education and experience, Sateesh has established himself as a leader in the community sector. Sateesh holds a Masters in Pharmacy, Masters in Information Systems, Certificate III in Disability and a Certificate IV in Frontline Management, which have equipped him with deep knowledge and skills in making a real difference in the lives of others. With over 16 years of expertise in the community sector, Sateesh has dedicated his career to supporting individuals with disabilities, striving to provide them with equal opportunities and a better quality of life. In personal life, Sateesh is a fun-loving individual who cherishes quality time spent with his family and friends during leisure. He finds joy in playing cricket and have developed a love for traveling. Sateesh’s contagious enthusiasm, combined with his empathetic nature and extensive experience in the community sector, has made him a respected and inspiring leader. Through the Lighthouse Connect Services organization, Sateesh continues to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve.

Yamini Akkamsetty

Director / Co-Founder

Yamini, the Co-founder and Director of LHCS is known as an empathetic and dedicated professional and has made a significant impact in the communities. With a deep passion for caring and serving others, Yamini is committed to creating positive change in people's lives. Her educational background reflects expertise in healthcare and biotech, holding a Master's degree in Biotechnology Studies, providing a strong understanding of cutting-edge advancements in the field. Moreover, Yamini possesses a Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy, demonstrating her knowledge of pharmaceuticals and patient care. Outside of work, Yamini finds joy in cooking, gardening, traveling, and spending time with loved ones.

Samuel Kasimalla

Team Lead

Sam is an exceptional individual with an unwavering dedication to fostering inclusive and supportive environments. With a Master's degree in Information Systems and Advanced diplomas in Community Sector Management and Christian Ministry and theology, Sam embodies a rare blend of technical expertise and a deep understanding of community service. At Lighthouse, Sam serves as the esteemed team lead, harnessing a wealth of experience and a compassionate nature to guide and inspire the team towards achieving their fullest potential. With a strong background in technology and a passion for community service, Sam brings a unique perspective to the organization. Sam's leadership is characterized by a commitment to inclusivity, equality, and the creation of a better world for everyone. Outside of work, Sam enjoys reading, traveling, and playing badminton.

Verma Dantuluri

Management Accountant / Plan Manager

Verma's genuine passion for nurturing and serving others is truly remarkable. With a strong educational foundation in accounting and business administration, Verma has solidified his reputation as a trustworthy individual. Holding a Master’s degree in professional accounting, a Master’s in Business Administration, and an Associate membership with CPA Australia, his credentials speak volumes. Drawing from a wealth of experience across diverse accounting realms, Verma has transitioned into the roles of Management accountant and Plan Manager. His unwavering dedication lies in providing personalized support infused with empathy, ensuring clients' aspirations are met optimally.

Ashleigh Noe

Support Coordinator

Ash is a highly skilled and dedicated professional with a diverse background in various industries. With certifications in Cert III Individual Support, Cert III Agriculture, Cert II Business Administration, and Cert II in Rural Operations Level 0 RDA Equestrian Riding Coach (working towards Level 1), she possesses a strong foundation of knowledge and expertise. In Ash's professional journey, she has gained valuable experience in different roles. Ash has also excelled in customer service, demonstrated their passion as an Equestrian Riding Coach for RDA Centre, and made a significant impact working in Disability Employment Services as well as an Employment Coach in a Supported Employment warehouse. Ash has accumulated more than 5 years of valuable experience in the disability industry, where her dedication and empathy have truly shone through.

Shalem Biju

Support Coordinator

Shalem is a support coordinator who is passionate about helping people with disabilities to access the services and resources that allow them to live as independently as possible. Shalem works with participants to understand and use their plan to pursue their goals, connect with NDIS providers, community, mainstream and other government services, and build their confidence and skills to use and coordinate their support. In his free time, Shalem enjoys playing sports and staying active. Shalem believes that sports can help people stay healthy and happy. Shalem is committed to making a difference in the world and helping others achieve their goals.

Tash Mafukidze

Support Coordinator

Tash, a beacon of empathy at Lighthouse Connect Services seamlessly blends professionalism with a vibrant spirit. Armed with a Master's in Social Work and an LLB degree, Tash skillfully navigates the intricacies of her role with a compassionate touch. Tash finds joy in the simple pleasures in life and off duty she is a certified couch connoisseur, indulging in her penchant for binge-watching TV shows, however, her downtime is not complete without the laughter of family gatherings and the warmth of friends' company. Tash believes that fostering connections outside the office is just as crucial as the bonds she builds within, creating a holistic approach to her well-rounded life.

Seline Heurung

Administration Assistant

Seline is the Administration Assistant at Lighthouse Connect Services. Her role is to ensure the efficient operation of the organization by coordinating and supervising the administrative staff. She is an expert organiser, and leader and holds a deep understanding of the administrative processes. A key part of the position is to manage the business procedures and support the overall goals of the organization. In Seline's freetime, she likes to stay fit and spend time outside in nature. Whether it is going hiking with her partner, spending time at her favorite gym or going to reformer pilates, Seline is always on the move. For downtime, she likes to go to the beach or spend time with family and friends.

Jacquie Taylor

Administration Assistant

Meet Jacquie, an esteemed Administration Assistant at Lighthouse Connect. With a wealth of experience in customer service, administration, and management, she has honed her communication skills exponentially, enabling her to interact seamlessly with clients and providers alike. Her entrepreneurial spirit is also evident in the successful management of her own small business alongside her husband. Jacquie's commitment to her work is matched only by her dedication to her personal well-being, which she nurtures through regular Pilates practice and quality time with her two young children and husband. They frequently enjoy exploring the beach and countryside, and it is clear that Jacquie's happiness is reflected in her glowing demeanour.

Shruthi Surendran

Administration Assistant

Shruthi Surendran, an invaluable member of Lighthouse Connect Services, serves as an Administrative Assistant. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology, she has further honed her skills by completing a Certificate 4 in Disability, she brings over 4 years of experience in the disability sector. With excellent organizational and time management abilities, Shruthi is not only adept at her administrative role but is also a compassionate listener, a crucial asset in her position. Beyond her professional life, Shruthi is a devoted mother to two beautiful girls, firmly anchoring her values in the importance of family. Her ultimate life goal is simple yet profound – to stay happy. For Shruthi, happiness extends beyond herself, as she strives to bring joy to the lives of those close to her.