[ 01 ]About Tapped In
Tapped In creates programs shaped by community and delivered through community. Our approach is grounded in lived experience, genuine connection and cultural understanding. That's what keeps our work authentic, relatable and able to create lasting impact.
[ 02 ]The Founder
Zayd Safi
“I grew up close to the challenges many young people face today. That perspective is why I believe the most effective solutions are built from within the community, not around it.”
I grew up in housing commission, surrounded by the same challenges many of the young people we work with face today.
The difference wasn't information. It was having someone who had been in my shoes, and that I could build connection with.
That experience shaped everything I do.
Today, I work across schools, youth justice and community organisations, creating spaces where young people feel heard, challenged and backed to make better decisions. We built honest connection first, and the discussions flow. That's the formula.
Tapped In was built from that belief.
We use storytelling, media and real conversations to help young people build confidence, think differently and see what's possible beyond the environment they grew up in.
Recognition
- Young Australian Champion2023
- Finalist, Victorian Multicultural Youth Awards2025
- Inspirational Young Person of the Year2025
- Youth Minister's Award2025
Podcast Co-Host
Ayub Abdullahi
Ayub Abdullahi is a podcast host and facilitator dedicated to empowering young people through meaningful conversations, mentorship, and community engagement. Born and raised in Melbourne with educational experience both in Australia and abroad, Ayub brings a unique perspective that bridges different cultures, backgrounds, and lived experiences.
Holding a Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Ayub has built a diverse professional background spanning corporate leadership, workplace health and safety, loss prevention, and youth development. Beginning his leadership journey at a young age, he developed a passion for guiding and supporting others, which has since evolved into facilitating workshops and mentoring programs across schools and community settings.
Through engaging and practical discussions, he aims to equip young people with the tools and confidence needed to navigate challenges and make positive choices.
Alongside his facilitation work, Ayub co-hosts Tapped In Melbourne, a podcast platform that explores stories, ideas, and conversations that inspire growth and strengthen community connections. Combining his professional experience, educational background, and commitment to youth empowerment, Ayub continues to create spaces that encourage learning, reflection, and meaningful change.
[ 03 ]Mission & Vision
Mission
To empower young people through our lived experiences, community values, storytelling and genuine connection, building confidence, resilience and pathways for long-term success.
Vision
A future where a young person's background and upbringing never limits their potential, and every community has the opportunity to thrive.
[ 04 ]The IAIP model
Identity
Know who you are before the world tells you.
Accountability
Own your choices, the good and the hard ones.
Impact
What you do lands on the people around you.
Purpose
Find the thing worth showing up for.
[ 05 ]Why Tapped In exists
Young people have experienced lectures. They've experienced suspension, exclusion and disciplinary action. Accountability has its place. But accountability without guidance rarely creates lasting change.
At Tapped In, we focus on what comes next.
Through lived experience, consistent connection and genuine relationships, we help young people build confidence, resilience and belief in themselves. Those are the things that stay with them long after our sessions have finished.
We've seen that consequences can change behaviour for a moment. Connection builds the confidence to change it for life.
[ 06 ]The build
2022
Tapped In starts as one person telling his story in rooms nobody else could reach.
2023
First school programs land in Melbourne classrooms. Word travels fast.
2024
Thinking vs Action launches. Panels, keynotes and a stage at the MCG.
2025
Workshops scale across the city. The work gets recognised at a state level.
2026
School-based and community-led partnerships across Victoria.
[ 07 ]Partners
- Lyndale Secondary College
- Dandenong Community Learning Centre
- Banksia Community Centre
- Thornbury High School
- Macleod College
- Wesley College
- Manor Lakes College
- Hume Central Secondary College
- RMIT University