The Cultural Au Pair Association of Australia Committee
The CAPAA Committee is made up of CAPAA Members who are nominated each year at the AGM. The management of the CAPAA is a shared responsibility across all CAPAA Members as they donate their time to create a better Au Pair industry for everyone.
Nicole Kofkin - President
Nicole is the founder of Hello Au Pairs, a boutique Sydney-based au pair agency specialising in flexible, live-in childcare solutions for busy professionals.
Nicole has been involved in the au pair and cultural exchange sector since 2006 and proudly celebrates almost 20 years in the industry. Her experience spans establishing and leading successful agencies in both the UK and Australia, alongside long-standing advocacy for protecting the au pair program as a genuine cultural exchange rather than a work program.
A founding member of CAPAA, Nicole has also served as a board member of BAPAA (British Au Pair Agencies Association), ECAPS, and the European Committee for Au Pair Standards, contributing to the development and promotion of best-practice industry standards internationally.
Throughout her career, Nicole has placed thousands of au pairs from more than 15 countries, supporting families in balancing demanding careers, complex schedules, and childcare needs, while offering young people the opportunity to participate in a meaningful and enriching cultural exchange.
Originally from the Netherlands, Nicole has lived in seven countries and speaks four languages. Her professional background in tourism and cultural exchange, combined with her personal experience as a working parent, gives her a deep understanding of the realities modern families face and informs her leadership within the sector.
Jackie Rylance – Secretary
Jackie is the founder of Dream Nannies Childcare Recruitment and the Program Director for Smart Au Pairs and has been matching Au Pairs with families since 2007.
Originally from the UK, Jackie moved to Australia with young children and enjoys this amazing country with its fabulous lifestyle. Jackie has a corporate sales and recruitment background and has hosted many Au Pairs and was also an Au Pair in Italy in her younger days! Jackie regularly travels to Europe and has an in depth understanding of international Au Pair Programs and the cultural benefits they bring.
As a busy mum she really understands the value the Au Pair program brings to both families and young people seeking a cultural exchange.
As a proud member of CAPAA, Jackie is committed to setting high industry standards for the Au Pair Program in Australia to achieve best outcomes for Au Pairs and Families.
Michelle Gee – Treasurer
Michelle is the founder of Au Pair Care Australia and has been connecting au pairs and families for over 7 years.
Michelle has worked with families and young people in Australia for close to 30 years in different capacities. Michelle has always enjoyed supporting and resourcing families and individuals to achieve their own goals within their communities.
Michelle was born in Australia and is very fortunate to have travelled to the USA, Europe, and Asia. Michelle has been involved indirectly and directly with Au Pairs for many years and knows the value of how a connection between the Au Pair and family is invaluable on so many levels.
Having children and a busy family herself, Michelle knows how valuable and important a successful cultural exchange is to both the Au Pair and family.
As a proud member of CAPAA, Michelle is committed to striving for a united approach to ensure Au Pairs and families are enriched through their cultural exchange connections.