Meet our Convenor - Our Activity Leaders
We’re proud to introduce the inspiring individuals who are leading our sessions with passion and dedication. These Convenors are not only guiding our activities—they’re making a real difference in the lives of our members. Their commitment, energy, and heart are what help our community thrive.
Anita Paxton
Convenor – Able-X
With a nursing career spanning over 40 years—most recently in acute stroke care at Peter James Centre Rehabilitation—she brought a deep understanding and compassion to her volunteer role with BSSG Inc., which she has held for over nine years.
Since retiring, BSSG has been the perfect fit, allowing her to continue supporting stroke survivors as they transition back into the community. She finds the role incredibly rewarding and encourages others to find a volunteer opportunity that resonates with them.
To her, volunteering with BSSG isn’t just about giving—it’s also about receiving. The sense of connection, purpose, and shared experience makes it a truly meaningful part of her life.
Tessa is a former entrepreneur, wellness counsellor, and qualified hypnotherapist with a strong background in wellbeing and personal development.
After experiencing a stroke 13 years ago that impacted her speech and mobility, she was introduced to BSSG Inc. during rehabilitation. The connection helped her realise she was not alone and inspired her to become an active member and contributor.
To Tessa, BSSG Inc. is a community of acceptance, support, and purpose. It has given her the opportunity to reconnect, participate, and support others—bringing confidence and meaning back into her life.
Tessa Lim
Convenor – Relaxation & Mindfulness
Ro Jacobs
Convenor – Chatter Box
Ro Jacobs, Speech Pathologist and Convenor of Chatterbox, facilitates weekly peer-led speech sessions. Her professional insight and gentle guidance help participants regain communication skills and confidence.
Peter Hocking, stroke survivor and Movie Group Convenor, shares lessons from his 11-year recovery journey. His empathy creates a space where others feel understood and uplifted.
Peter Hocking
Convenor – Movie Group
Janet Hesson
Convenor – Chair based light exercise to music
With 37 years of experience in group fitness instruction, she trained through the London Central YMCA at age 40 and has since completed further qualifications in the U.S. and Australia. She is a certified gym instructor, personal trainer, and specialist in exercise to music.
She became involved with BSSG Inc. to share her passion for fitness in a meaningful way and has found it deeply rewarding.
To her, BSSG Inc. is a source of genuine connection and joy. The friendships she’s made through the group have been a highlight of her journey.
I had a stroke when I was celebrating my birthday on 4 February 2014. I was at home with my partner Todd and a few friends we had invited over. We were standing in the lounge when suddenly, I collapsed. It was that sudden.
As a result of my stroke, I am unable to use my left hand, which is difficult as I am left-handed, but I have learnt to use my right. I can’t walk long distances anymore. No more than 500 metres. However, I have my power chair!
BSSG gives me the opportunity to give back and help others. Sometimes it can be a struggle, but if I can do it, I want others to see they can do it too. If I know I can help one person at BSSG, it makes me feel happy. I also volunteer at the Lions Club in Brighton and Rotary Prahran.
If I had any advice to give, it would be “Have a good laugh, even if it’s at yourself” and “Never give up”.
Jay Te Manu
Convenor – Young Stroke Support Group
Tinwai Yung
A lifelong musician and former piano teacher, he brings his passion for music to BSSG Inc. as the choir pianist. With experience performing with orchestras and playing in hospitals, he understands music’s unique ability to heal, connect, and uplift.
He joined BSSG to share the joy of music and support stroke survivors through creative expression.
To him, BSSG Inc. is a place where music becomes a bridge—fostering connection, positivity, and emotional healing within a caring community.
Born in Malaysia, she moved to Melbourne to study business and began her career as a research and education officer at the National Bank. Inspired by an advertisement for technical teachers, she pursued a Diploma of Education and taught at Preston and Box Hill Technical Colleges. After becoming an Australian citizen, she married, started a family, and devoted herself to raising a daughter and a son. When her children became independent, she volunteered with her church, Doncare, and Vision Australia, while working part-time in childcare. She was looking for new activities to join when she accidentally came across the BSSG Hub in Kew. The person who answered the door, eager to welcome new volunteers, warmly invited her in to meet the friendly, smiling faces inside. From that moment, her journey with BSSG began.
Since becoming a volunteer in 2023, her experience has been enriched by engaging with people of all ages and needs. She continues to be inspired by how stroke survivors at the Hub dedicate their time to running activities.
She firmly believes that the BSSG Hub is the place to be—You are never alone!
