Nikki Bonus is an experienced EdTech founder and the driving force behind Life Skills Group and Life Skills GO. With over 20 years of deeply personal and professional experience in developing social-emotional literacy programs, Nikki has dedicated her career to ensuring that every student’s voice is heard and supported. Her mission is simple yet powerful: no child should fall through the cracks.

At the core of her passion is a belief in using innovative technology to empower schools and educators with evidence-based wellbeing data – from the students, for the students. This data helps schools make informed decisions that directly improve student outcomes, addressing emotional, social, and academic needs in real time. Life Skills GO, the digital platform she founded in 2016, has delivered more than 2.5 million student check-ins this year alone (August 2024), providing schools with the tools they need to ensure every child is seen, heard, and supported.

Nikki’s commitment doesn’t stop with students. She believes that educators are the backbone of thriving school communities and that their wellbeing is just as important. By equipping teachers with practical tools and skills, Life Skills GO helps educators not only manage their classrooms but also nurture their own personal and professional wellbeing. Nikki’s vision is for both students and educators to thrive in all areas of life, creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout school communities.

Nikki’s leadership and innovation have been recognised through her selection as a finalist in the 2024 NSW Telstra Best of Business Awards in the categories of Outstanding Growth and Embracing Innovation. This recognition is a testament to the transformative work of Life Skills GO, which continues to set the standard for social-emotional learning in schools.

Nikki’s own story is one of resilience and compassion. Having been out of home at just 16 years old and enduring the personal tragedy of losing her brother to mental health struggles, Nikki’s intrinsic motivation is clear: to make sure no child, regardless of their background, is left behind. She believes that every child has the potential to succeed, no matter where they come from or what challenges they face given the right education and tools.

A graduate of the Google Engage – Search Inside Yourself leadership program in San Francisco, Nikki has trained with world-leading experts in neuroscience, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and leadership. This unique training allows her to deliver transformational professional development experiences to educators and leaders, all aimed at building compassionate, resilient, and flourishing school environments.

Through Life Skills Group and Life Skills GO, Nikki has worked hand-in-hand with 1000 schools, 60,000 teachers, and 1,000,000 students, all while collecting a robust evidence base on what truly works in improving student wellbeing. With over 1,200 professional development programs delivered globally, Nikki continues to drive her mission forward – working with governments, school communities, and educators to see social, emotional, and physical literacy valued as much as academic performance.

Nikki’s leadership, authenticity, and passion make her a powerful storyteller and advocate for change. Her ability to inspire others, engage communities, and foster collaboration is what sets her apart as a visionary leader in education. Together, with her team, she is building a future where every student’s voice is heard, every educator is supported, and school communities thrive on all levels.