Our Team

Our CEO Naomi Paterson has been working with the homeless and marginalised community in Greater Dandenong for many years. She is passionate about seeing people grow in confidence, purpose and skills, and is actively involved in advocating for the disadvantaged in many ways. Naomi previously spent a few years working with the homeless community in Melbourne’s CBD, where she ran a weekly creative writing group alongside helping to run meal programs. With a BCA and Graduate Diploma in Theology, Naomi is also the Pastor for Community Engagement at Dandenong Baptist Church.

Our Kitchen Manager, Juwita (JJ), has a long history in hospitality, having worked in family cafés and restaurants from an early age. In 2017, JJ completed her Diploma and began working with marginalised community members in Dandenong. She joined the Cornerstone team in 2019 and during her time here, completed a Bachelor of Community Services in 2021.

Outside of work, JJ enjoys camping, baking and scrapbooking. JJ’s caring personality makes her a favourite among Cornerstone guests, volunteers and staff alike. Pop into the kitchen and say ‘hi’ next time you visit Cornerstone!

Janik works as the cross-cultural worker at Cornerstone Contact Centre. His focus is on engaging migrant and multi-ethnic people with the programs and resources we provide at Cornerstone. This includes connecting clients to local partners to ensure they are aware and connected with the correct pathways to suit their needs. There is also a focus on fostering a community at Cornerstone where people of all backgrounds feel welcome and a part of the community. On his off time Janik enjoys bouldering and playing boardgames with his friends.

Stephanie has a Diploma of Community Services and a genuine passion for helping people overcome life’s challenges. Her journey with Cornerstone began as a student on placement, where she quickly discovered that supporting people and making a meaningful difference in their lives was exactly where she wanted to be.

With a strong belief that everyone deserves to feel valued, heard and supported, Stephanie is passionate about working alongside people experiencing hardship. At Cornerstone, Stephanie enjoys building genuine connections with people, and helping people to recognise their own strengths and potential.