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
Top Blokes launches the Youth Ambassador Council in order to amplify young males voices and empower them to lead within their communities.
2024
Latest news and updates
Top Blokes newsSupporting Men and Boys – International Men’s Day 2025
19 November 2025
Today is International Men’s Day, a time to recognise the achievements of men and boys, highlight positive role models, and focus on their mental and physical health. The 2025 theme is “Supporting Men and Boys”, reminding us that fostering supportive communities for males is more important than ever. At Top Blokes, supporting men and boys […]
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Top Blokes newsWhy the school-to-work transition is a time of difficulty for young men
11 November 2025
The leap from school to the workplace can be exciting — but for many young men, it’s also one of the most challenging times of their lives. Research shows 75 percent of mental health conditions emerge before 24, and early work experiences can shape confidence, belonging, and wellbeing for years to come*. We chat with […]
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In the mediaAaron Speaks to ABC Newcastle on the “Man Box” and What Boys Really Need
11 November 2025
Yesterday, our Greater Hunter Regional Coordinator Aaron joined ABC Newcastle to unpack the latest Adolescent Man Box Study by Jesuit Social Services. The study explores the pressures boys face to appear “strong, tough and confident” at all times – and the impact this has on their wellbeing, friendships and relationships. The study found that two-thirds […]
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