Local Business Legends of Logan
Sallymatu Kuyateh is the founder and director of Empathy Community Services, a Logan-based disability service provider that puts multicultural understanding, dignity, and compassion at the heart of everything it does. Driven by a vision for inclusive care, Sallymatu is being celebrated as one of this month’s Logan Legends for her work empowering individuals to live their best lives and fostering strong connections across cultures and abilities.
Sallymatu was inspired to launch Empathy after hearing repeated concerns from multicultural individuals with disability who felt their religious, cultural, and personal needs were overlooked. “They were receiving a one-size-fits-all kind of support,” she explained. “So I started Empathy Community Services to offer personalised, culturally respectful care that listens first and builds trust.”
Empathy’s person-centred approach places participants and families at the centre of every plan, with a strong emphasis on communication, cultural sensitivity, and feedback. “We prioritise active listening and open dialogue,” she said. “That’s how we make sure participants feel seen, heard, and supported.” Every support plan is tailored to reflect each individual’s identity, aspirations, and values.
Operating in Logan is something Sallymatu holds close to her heart. “Here, we’re not asked where we come from — we’re welcomed as one people, one community,” she said. “There’s a unique togetherness here, and it’s why I love working and living in Logan. The diversity, kindness, and willingness to support others make this community truly special and inspiring every day.”
Empathy Community Services offers a wide range of NDIS supports, including 24/7 high-care needs, complex wound care, community access, personal care, group activities, and residential supports like respite, SIL, SDA, and medium-term accommodation. One of Sallymatu’s proudest moments was securing housing for a vulnerable young woman in crisis. “Within eight hours, she was safe. That’s the kind of difference we strive to make.”
Looking ahead, Sallymatu sees growth into aged care services and retirement villages to meet the needs of an ageing population.
“We want to support people at every stage of life. Because at Empathy, we value people — always.”
Sallymatu Kuyateh
hello@empathycs.com.au
empathycs.com.au
1300 755 064
