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.

Erin has over 16 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, predominantly in leadership roles, including years of service directing. With a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and a Graduate Certificate in Developmental Trauma, her professional trajectory has developed from a focus on quality education and care for young children to a comprehensive wrap-around approach, especially in supporting vulnerable children and families.
Beyond her professional endeavours, Erin is a mother of three, including two stepchildren and a young daughter of her own. Through her experiences as a parent, particularly of her daughter, she advocates for the well-being of all children, especially those with neurodiversity or vulnerabilities. She carries this lens through all her interactions, making her exceptional at developing meaningful relationships and connections.
Erin's true passion lies in the education, advancement, and development of individuals within the early childhood sector. She focuses on leveraging their strengths, fostering resilience, and fostering meaningful connections and relationships. When people feel empowered and successful, this positively impacts the children in their care, resulting in long-term positive social impact.

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.

Rosie has over 23 years of experience working in the Early Childhood sector, driven by her passion for nurturing and empowering children and families. With a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and a Graduate Certificate in Developmental Trauma, Rosie has worked in many roles such as Assistant Educator, Lead Educator, Centre Administrator, and Family Liaison Officer.
Throughout her career, Rosie has been a steadfast advocate for the wellbeing of vulnerable and at-risk children and families, promoting their right to receive equal and equitable support to thrive in their community. Rosie strives to support her local community through creating inclusive environments where every individual feels valued and supported.
Drawing from her own experiences as a parent, as well as her understanding of neurodiversity, Rosie brings a unique perspective to her work, allowing her to connect with others on a deeper level.
Her dedication, compassion, and advocacy make Rosie an invaluable asset to the Early Learning Connection team, where she will continue to to make a profound impact through empowering women across the ACT.

Meet the team