Meet the team

Each member brings a unique perspective and a shared commitment to supporting early childhood educators. Scroll down to read more about each of our qualifications, contributions and passions…

  • PJ Aguilar is the Executive Officer at our not-for-profit, community based centre, supporting generations of families for over 40 years and is a key driver in early childhood education.

    PJ developed the idea for Early Learning Connection after listening to many stakeholders across the profession. She believes grass roots initiatives provides a framework for community to come together and make a difference for ourselves today and our future generations.

    Over the last 20 years, PJ has worked in small business, government, academia and community development. She has a Bachelor of Psychology degree with a background in coaching, training and social impact programs. She was Assistant Director at the Australian Government Office for Women, and Account Manager for Early Childhood Education, Community Grants Hub.

    She was a Finalist in the 2022 Canberra Women in Business Social Impact Award, is the Chair of the Advocacy Sub-Committee of the Children First Alliance, was a member of the ACT Government's Best Start: First 1000 Days Advisory Committee, and remains an eternal optimist!

 

  • Tash has been in the profession for over 10 years, including roles from educator, coordinator, inclusion support and leadership, through to governance, risk management, advocacy, research, evaluation and business support.

    She holds a Bachelor of Education (Birth to Five years) and Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. In her previous roles, she worked with Early Childhood Services to develop and implement educational programs based on the needs of local communities, contributed to social impact initiatives, and provided secretariat support for the Children First Alliance.

    Tash is driven to support our local community as a leader in positive change with a focus on inclusion. Tash is a mum of two young children, and is passionate about improving the quality of early childhood education and empowering individuals through her work.

 

  • Ellen has extensive experience in the early childhood education and care sector, with over 14 years of dedicated service. She holds a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, which underscores her expertise in fostering the development and well-being of children. 

    Recently, Ellen has furthered her qualifications by completing a Diploma in Community Services, expanding her skills and knowledge to support broader community needs and initiatives. Her enthusiasm and dedication to continuous learning, development, and excellence makes a significant impact in her current role as a Community Coordinator.

    Ellen is passionate about working with people from diverse social and cultural backgrounds, bringing a unique blend of empathy, understanding, and collaborative spirit to her interactions. Ellen is dedicated to making a difference in supporting people which keeps her motivated to continue to grow in the early childhood learning sector. She thrives in networking environments and enjoys meeting new individuals or groups within specific communities to support their needs.

 

  • Martina has over 14 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, starting in the field as a trainee and working in almost all areas of the sector throughout her professional journey.

    Her passion lies in inclusive multicultural practices and she always strives to involve the community within her practices as an educator while being an engaged member in her community.

    She advocates for children and young people and is consistently aiming to learn and better herself as a role model and positive influence in the early childhood sector.

    Having two young daughters herself, she continues to aim to achieve a positive environment for her own children and all children she is privileged to work alongside to feel a sense of belonging and the opportunity to grow into the best versions they can be.

    Martina believes that:

    “when every person (little or big) is provided a safe and nurturing environment they can and will achieve their goals, everyone deserves the right to feel valued and be appreciated for their unique individuality.”