Shanelle Bennett

Shanelle Bennett serves as the Executive Director of Mission Integration and Lead Pastoral Care at Mercy Community since September 2016, after founding Awaken Counselling in February 2014. With a background that includes roles such as Pastoral Care staff and Counsellor at Salvos Mt Gravatt from May 2015 to September 2016, and CEO and Counsellor/Supervisor at NET Ministries Australia from May 2001 to November 2014, Shanelle has extensive experience in pastoral care and counselling. Earlier professional experience includes serving as a Community Correctional Officer for the Queensland Government from January 1999 to April 2001. Shanelle's educational qualifications include a Bachelor of Social Science (Counselling) from Australian Catholic University and ongoing studies for a Diploma in Theology. Prior to these professional pursuits, Shanelle managed family responsibilities while pursuing education, raising three children.