Melissa Abu-Gazaleh,
Founder and Managing Director
Melissa Abu-Gazaleh, crowned the 2017 EY Social Entrepreneur of the Year and 2016 NSW Young Australian of the Year, is a trailblazer in reshaping young male mental health in Australia. At 19, she noticed so many young men around her masking their pain and mental health issues through drugs, alcohol, risk-taking and self-harm. Alarmed by the high rates of youth crime, alcohol-related violence, and suicide among young men, Melissa saw an urgent need to enhance their social and emotional wellbeing.
In 2006, Melissa founded the Top Blokes Foundation, a charity dedicated to transforming the lives of boys and young men through innovative, evidence-based peer mentoring and social education programs. Since then, the team’s work has significantly boosted the mental health and wellbeing of over 20,000 young males.
Proud to be recognised as
EY Social Entrepreneur of the Year – 2017
NSW Young Australian of the Year from the National Australia Day Council – 2016
IMB Bank’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year (Illawarra) – 2015
Volunteer of the Year (Illawarra) – 2014
Speaking
As a sought-after speaker, Melissa has shared her insights and inspired change at leadership, business, men’s health and youth conferences and events. Her dynamic and inspiring talks have mobilised countless Australians to join in nurturing a new generation of ‘Top Blokes,’ committed to positive change and community leadership.
Book MelissaA history of Top Blokes
Melissa Abu-Gazaleh established the Top Blokes Awards, recognising young males who volunteered and inspired others to reach their full potential in the Illawara community.
2006
Melissa founded Top Blokes Foundation.
2011
The first Top Blokes young male mentoring program was launched, focusing on boys and young men aged 14-17 years old.
2012
The second mentoring program was launched, focusing on 16-24 year old young men.
2013
Top Blokes expanded to Lake Macquarie, Western Sydney and the Central Coast of NSW.
2017
The third young male mentoring program launched, focusing on boys aged 10-13 years old.
2018
Top Blokes expanded to Queensland.
2020
The Graduate Club was launched for all Top Blokes mentoring program alumni, reaching 15,000 boys and young men. Plus, Top Blokes Foundation was recognised as Australian Charity of the Year.
2022
Celebrated mentoring 20,000 boys and young men.
2023
Latest news and updates
Mentor StoryThree takeaways every young man needs about sexual health
14 February 2025
Sex education shouldn’t be awkward, confusing, or just a one-time chat. But for many young men, that’s exactly what it is. Between vague school lessons, rushed conversations with parents, and the influence of social media and porn, it’s easy to pick up misinformation and unrealistic expectations. So, what do young men actually need to know […]
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Mentor StoryLet’s talk porn, connection and real relationships
10 February 2025
There’s something about a barbershop that brings out real conversations. Maybe it’s the laid-back vibe, the hum of clippers, or the unspoken trust between the barber and the person in the chair. In this case, the conversation wasn’t just about fades and mullets—it was about pornography, masculinity, and what young men are (and aren’t) learning […]
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Mentor StoryFinding Strength in Vulnerability: Hayden’s Journey from Participant to Mentor
10 January 2025
When you meet Hayden, the first thing you notice is his energy—an infectious, confident presence that seems to radiate wisdom far beyond his 18 years. But what truly stands out about Hayden is his ability to connect. Whether he’s chatting with a group of teenage boys in a workshop or reflecting on his personal journey, […]
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