Ensuring young SA carers are seen, heard, and supported in their journey

Brigid Koenig is  the recently announced General Manager of Young Carers SA, she leads initiatives that support young people in caregiving roles, who are as young as 5 and up to the age of 25. Previously, as CEO of the Sammy D Foundation, she drove interstate expansion and program growth, earning recognition as a Telstra Business Women’s Awards finalist and in InDaily’s 40 Under 40.

Brigid also serves as a Non-Executive Director at Rugby Union South Australia and is a co-founder of Strivve4, an inclusive activewear brand promoting movement and community for women. Through her consultancy, The Purpose Driven Leader, she continues to support organisations in creating lasting impact. With a strong commitment to leadership development and community engagement, Brigid remains a driving force in South Australia’s not-for-profit sector.

Describe your career trajectory and how you got to your current position.

My career began in corporate sales and marketing, where I developed strong leadership and strategy skills. However, after my mum was diagnosed with a progressive illness, I pursued my passion for social impact and moved into the not-for-profit sector. I spent four years with St John Ambulance SA in commercial and fundraising leadership roles and six years as CEO of the Sammy D Foundation.

In 2024, I launched my consulting business, The Purpose Driven Leader, to support organisations in leadership and growth strategies. This led me to Young Carers SA, where I initially consulted before being appointed as General Manager in March 2025. Alongside my executive roles, I serve as a Non-Executive Director at Rugby Union South Australia and co-founded Strivve4, an activewear brand built on the values of community. My journey has been driven by a commitment to empowering others, fostering strong, authentic leadership, and making a tangible difference in communities.

Take us through a typical day of work for you.

Every day is so different, but my mornings usually start with helping my girls get ready for school. For three days each week, I’m at Young Carers SA where I oversee strategy, partnerships, and program delivery to support young carers who takes on a significant caregiving role for a family member who has a chronic illness, suYers with substance misuse, has a disability, mental health concern, or is ageing. My day includes meetings with stakeholders, leading my team, and working on initiatives to expand our impact. Afternoons and evenings might involve networking, attending events, contributing to governance work in my board role, or supporting my girls at sport and their after school activities. I also dedicate a few days per week to Strivve4, to help grow our business, and The Purpose Driven Leader, mentoring emerging leaders and advising organisations.

No two days are the same, but my focus remains on creating opportunities for young people, building connections and strengthening the sense of community.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve encountered in your career, and how did you overcome it?

One of the biggest challenges in my career was leading the Sammy D Foundation through the COVID-19 pandemic. As a provider of education to youth across the nation, I had to navigate unprecedented uncertainly while ensuring our programs remained accessible to the young people who relied upon them. With lockdowns and funding pressures, we had to pivot quickly, adapting services, shifting to digital opportunities and finding new ways to support our community. Rather than seeing obstacles, I focused on opportunities – embracing innovation, strengthening partnerships, and leading with transparency and empathy. By prioritising clear communication and team wellbeing, we not only sustained our impact but also expanded our reach. That experience reinforced my belief in adaptability, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership, which has helped shape how I approach challenges today.

If you could go back in time, what piece of advice would you give yourself as you first embarked on your career?

Early in my career, I often felt like I had to have all the answers, but I’ve learned that leadership is about learning, adapting, and surrounding yourself with great people. I’d also remind myself to embrace my own leadership style and lead with authenticity. Trying to fit a mould or lead the way others expect can be limiting. True leadership comes from owning your strengths, being transparent and staying true to your values. Every experience, whether a success or a setback, shapes the leader you become. Stay true to your purpose, embrace challenges, and never underestimate the impact you can make.

How do you unwind after work?

Exercise is my go-to when I make the time! A gym session, or a walk with my beautiful family – my husband, daughters and our dog Maple. Movement helps me reset and clear my mind. I also love spending time with my wonderful network of family and friends, whether it’s sharing a meal, enjoying a coffee, or having a laugh. Reading, listening to podcasts, and winding down with a good TV show also help me switch of. Finding balance is key and while it’s not always as balanced as I’d like it to be, I’ve learned that making time for things that bring joy, fun and connection is just asimportant as work itself.