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About us

What we do

We work with people with a disability who have a specific need, "Need-Knowers", and connect them with a diverse group of professionals, including engineers, industrial designers, health professionals and tradespeople, "Makers". 
 
Together, they design and build products that solve a complex problem and improve the everyday life of the Need-Knower. Recent prototypes include robotic arms, powered crutches, wheelchair wheel cleaners and bespoke exercise machines. The intellectual property for every product is then shared through open-source Digital Product Files, so others can replicate or iterate it in their own communities around the world. 

Innovation

We challenge the status quo
We are creative in how we approach and solve challenges
We are curious and explore new ideas
We continue to learn and improve
We test new ideas and aren’t afraid to fail

Empowerment

We provide opportunities for everyone to participate
We are empowered to make a difference beyond ourselves
We encourage meaningful and active contribution
We work towards building a more inclusive society
We listen to everyone’s voice

Community

We foster a sense of community and belonging
We create a safe space for people to be themselves
We care for and support each other
We embrace and celebrate the richness of a diverse community
We listen to our community

Sustainability

We consider the environmental, social and economic impacts of our work
We strive to create sustainable solutions
We continuously review our sustainability practices
We consider the longevity of our work

OUR values

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OUR
HISTORY

Since 2016, TOM: Melbourne has developed a range of programs, including holding Makeathon events, building a developer network, establishing TOM @ University and offering STEM workshops in schools

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TOM: Melbourne has seen some great impact so far. We've helped 54 people with a disability, created a network of over 400 "Makers" and partnered with innovative organisations, such as Swinburne University of Technology and Solve Disability Solutions. 

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TOM was established in Israel in 2014 with a moonshot goal of impacting the lives of 250, 000, 000 people within a decade. 

Five years later, TOM has established 60+ communities across 20+ countries, creating 400+ unique solutions.

OUR TEAM

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DEBBIE DADON

Director

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NARELLE HINKLEY

General Manager

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ALISON VON MOGER

Technology and Innovation Lead

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JAIME HISLOP

Education Programs Coordinator

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HANNA NYBERG

Technology and Events Coordinator

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AVA BENNETT

Programs and Events Assistant

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