With over 15 years of frontline and leadership experience across youth justice, residential care, and community services, Cayan Erdogdu brings a unique blend of structure, empathy, and practical wisdom to his work. His journey began with Youth Justice NSW in 2009 and has evolved into his current role as Unit Manager at Cobham Youth Justice Centre, where he oversees the safety, wellbeing, and progress of both staff and young people. He also currently serves as a Trainer and Assessor at Hader Institute of Education, where he equips future professionals with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the sector. His approach balances trauma-informed care with firm, fair leadership, ensuring each interaction is guided by professionalism and purpose.
Cayan’s frontline experience is complemented by deep knowledge of therapeutic youth work and vocational education. As a former Therapeutic Youth Worker and Team Leader with ICCARE, he supported young people with disabilities and trauma backgrounds, helping to create safe, stable environments guided by the CARE framework. His commitment to capacity-building naturally extended into training, where he now specialises in delivering qualifications in Youth Work, Mental Health, Community Services, and Alcohol and Other Drugs. Known for his engaging online sessions, Cayan connects real-world experience with practical learning outcomes that empower students for success.
An innovative leader, Cayan has led key initiatives at Cobham including the development of the Custodial Training Drills (CTD) system—adopted statewide—and a structured induction unit that transformed post-COVID admissions. He is a firm believer in continuous improvement and regularly participates in validation, moderation, and professional development. Whether he's leading a team in a secure environment or mentoring learners through complex concepts, Cayan is driven by fairness, accountability, and a deep respect for every individual’s potential.
Cayan holds a Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology and Criminology), a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, and multiple qualifications across Mental Health, AoD, Youth Work, and Leadership. His practice is rooted in cultural safety, emotional regulation, and person-centred care. Above all, Cayan leads with purpose—supporting the next generation of community service professionals to make a meaningful and lasting difference.
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Social Science (Criminology and Psychology) – Western Sydney University
- Diploma of Youth Work – TAFE
- Diploma of Community Services – Luvium College
- Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs – Christa College
- Diploma of Leadership and Management – Recognition First
- Certificate IV in Mental Health – International Institute of Education and Training
- Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention – Christa College
- Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122) – Nationwide Academy
- Certificate IV in Juvenile Justice (Youth Work) – TAFE
- Protective Tactics Instructor Course – Juvenile Justice
- MAPA Foundation Instructor Program – Juvenile Justice
- Senior First Aid – Australian Training Institute
Join Cayan in a dynamic learning environment where real-world experience meets high-quality training, inspiring the next generation of community service professionals to lead with empathy, courage, and competence.