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Sylvana Mahmic
CEO Plumtree
Sylvana Mahmic is the Chief Executive Officer of Plumtree Children's Services, a non-profit organization based in Marrickville, New South Wales, dedicated to supporting young children with developmental delays and their families. With over 28 years of experience in the early childhood intervention field, Mahmic has developed a particular expertise in whole-of-family and peer-led approaches to support.
Professional Background
Mahmic co-created the peer-led program Now & Next and has been instrumental in establishing two peer-led organizations. Her extensive involvement in the sector includes serving on over 25 advisory groups, including six Ministerial appointments, and being a member of the NSW Disability Council. She has held executive positions on the Board of Early Childhood Intervention Australia NSW/ACT and was a founding board member of the Diversity Disability Alliance.
Currently, she is a member of several advisory groups, including:
- Access Advisory Group for the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet
- NSW Family and Community Services Multicultural Advisory Group
- Australian Museum Access and Inclusion Advisory Panel
- NDIS Independent Advisory Council since 2013
Education and Research
Mahmic holds a Bachelor of Education (BEd) and a Master of Education (MEd). She is also currently engaged in postgraduate research focused on individualized funding, an area she has been passionate about since 2009 when her son began using self-managed funding.
Recognitions
Her contributions to the field have been recognized through various awards, including:
- Citizen of the Year – Australia Day 2017 (Inner West Council)
- Woman of the Year Award 2008 (New South Wales Government)
- Excellence in Education and Training Award 2019 (Centre for Disability Studies)
Publications and Contributions
Mahmic has authored several publications related to early childhood intervention and family support, including studies on peer support programs for parents of children with disabilities. She has also contributed to various blogs and podcasts discussing family-centered practices and disability advocacy.
Languages
In addition to her professional qualifications, Sylvana Mahmic speaks Bosnian, enhancing her ability to connect with diverse communities.
Through her leadership at Plumtree, Mahmic continues to advocate for families and children with disabilities, promoting their independence and community participation .1234
