Certified Full-time Care Professionals for Children with Hydrocephaly

In-country candidate: Aileen is a dedicated Special Needs Care Provider with over 3,000 hours of childcare experience, working with children and adolescents aged 3 to 18 across a variety of diagnoses. She is currently with a host family in South Carolina with 2 boys, ages 5 and 7 yrs old, including the oldest with autism. Her diverse experience includes roles in a workshop for individuals with severe disabilities, a residential facility for children and adolescents with special needs, a kindergarten, and a residential facility for adults with autism. Growing up in a large family with six siblings—five of whom are younger—Aileen has developed a natural ability to be playful, nurturing, and reliable in her caregiving approach. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading, and crocheting. Aileen has been driving daily for six months and is experienced in navigating various weather conditions, including rain and snow. She is excited about the opportunity to build a meaningful connection with your family and will be available to join you now!

In-country Candidate: Vanessa is a 23 year old Elementary School Educator who is special needs care qualified. She is currently in Colorado caring for 3 children, including one with ADHD. She studied at the University of Regensburg to become an elementary school teacher, driven by her lifelong passion for working with young children and teaching them fundamental skills like reading and writing. Before coming to the USA and the past four years, she has worked at an elementary school, supporting refugee children—many with special needs such as ADHD—by helping them learn German and integrate into their classes, an experience that has deepened her understanding of diverse educational needs. Vanessa is kind, playful, and caring, but also knows how to maintain structure and focus when working with kids. In addition to teaching, she shares her love for dance by coaching a young student and has over a decade of experience in traditional German dance, recently discovering her passion for line dancing and country music. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, reading, baking, cooking, and going on forest walks with her dog. She loves sushi, burgers, and anything with chocolate, especially chocolate ice cream. Vanessa is an experienced driver, having obtained her license at age 17, and navigating snowy and icy conditions regularly in her rural area. She dreams of combining her love for children and her desire to explore the world by continuing to work as a Care Professional in the USA. And she hopes to create meaningful connections and gain new cultural insights starting this month!

2nd Year Apex Alum! Annelie-Freyja (Annelie) is a 23 year old Educator who is both infant care and special needs care qualified. She is excited to create lasting memories with your children! Annelie has been with a family in NJ with 2 children, ages 8 and 5 yrs old with autism (both are nonverbal, although the little boy has made leaps and bounds in his communication since she arrived!). She describes herself as creative, motivated, and empathetic. In her free time, she enjoys making crafts, crocheting, drawing, cooking, and baking. She is also very family-oriented, and often visited her grandparents throughout her life. Annelie is open to getting her driver's license in the USA. She is looking forward to personal and professional growth with your family beginning on March 2, 2026 when her program year is over!

Lennox is a 22-year-old Occupational Therapist with qualifications in special needs care. Passionate about helping children achieve their full potential, he takes a gentle and patient approach in his work. In his free time, Lennox enjoys reading, exploring new topics through research, and playing video games. With two years of driving experience, he is confident navigating both highways and city traffic. Lennox is excited to begin supporting your family in October, bringing his expertise and compassionate care to your household.

Available Now! Melanie is a 27-year-old Early Childhood Educator with a Bachelor's Degree and over 6,000 hours of childcare experience. She holds qualifications in both infant care and special needs care, with extensive experience working with large groups of young children. Her background includes supporting children with autism, developmental delays, epilepsy, and sensory processing disorders. Melanie has been supporting an Apex Host Family in NJ with 2 children; ages 12 and 8 years old since her arrival in April. Melanie describes herself as empathetic, creative, and calm under pressure. In her free time, she enjoys horseback riding, reading, ballet, listening to podcasts, and traveling. She has lived away from home and has had a Driver's License for 7 years. She is comfortable with family pets and excited to support your family beginning June 8th. Note from Apex: Melanie will be due 7 days of vacation, 2 holidays, and $0 towards her education. Her program year will be complete on April 20, 2026.

Laura is a 25-year-old Nurse from Germany who brings a wealth of experience in both healthcare and childcare. She is infant care and special needs care qualified and has been inspired by her brother's needs and her mother's nursing career. Laura pursued and completed her nursing apprenticeship in 2023, and now works on a palliative care ward while studying for a bachelor’s degree in health and nursing education. Her nurturing spirit extends beyond the hospital—she has cared for newborns, enjoys spending time with children, and thrives in both structured and spontaneous caregiving environments. Known for her patience, empathy, and strong communication skills, Laura is also an avid cook, nature enthusiast, animal lover, and enjoys reading, swimming, and connecting with friends. Her calm demeanor under pressure, adaptability, and passion for cultural exchange make her an ideal candidate for a host family abroad beginning in November!

Theresa is a 25-year-old Occupational Therapist with specialized qualifications in special needs care. She has experience working with children diagnosed with ADHD, autism, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, Down syndrome, and epilepsy. Since 2022, she has been working full-time in a pediatric occupational and speech therapy practice and also enjoys spending time caring for her nieces. Described as patient, solution-oriented, and empathetic, Theresa is committed to providing thoughtful and individualized support. In her free time, she enjoys Zumba, exploring nature, cooking, playing games with friends, and traveling in her camper. Having lived independently for several years, she is a confident and experienced daily driver. Theresa follows a gluten-free diet and is comfortable around family pets. She is excited about the opportunity to support your family and further develop her professional skills starting in November!

Samira is a 26-year-old Social Worker with qualifications in special needs care and over 5,000 hours of childcare experience. She has supported children and young adults with a range of diagnoses, including ADD/ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and developmental delays. With a multicultural background and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity, Samira enjoys learning about and engaging with different cultures. Since April 2022, she has been working full-time in her field, bringing a wealth of hands-on experience and dedication to her work. Samira describes herself as positive, empathetic, and authentic. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, listening to music, spending time in nature, traveling, visiting museums, reading, playing sports, and exploring a wide variety of interests. Although she has held her driver’s license since the age of 18, living in a large city has limited her driving opportunities. In preparation for her journey to the U.S., Samira is committed to practicing regularly and completing additional driver training to build her confidence behind the wheel. Samira is excited to begin supporting your family in November!

Anna is a 25 year old Occupational Therapist with over 2000 childcare hours who is warm, dedicated, and experienced with a deep passion for working with children and supporting their development in a safe and nurturing environment. With a strong professional background that includes working with children of various ages and abilities—particularly those with special needs, developmental delays, and sensory processing challenges—she brings both empathy and expertise to her role as a care professional. Her journey began during a voluntary year in a residential group home, where a powerful experience supporting a non-verbal girl with autism confirmed her calling. Anna is motivated not only by her love for children but also by her enthusiasm for cultural exchange and personal growth. She enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new places, and connecting with animals, family, and friends. With seven years of driving experience, including international travel, she is confident behind the wheel and adaptable to new environments. Anna’s patient, reliable, and joyful nature makes her an ideal addition to a host family, where she looks forward to becoming a trusted source of support beginning in November!

Theresa is a trained Social Worker from Hessen, Germany, with two years of professional experience at a psychosomatic rehabilitation center. In her role, she supports adults coping with depression, burnout, and other mental health challenges by helping them reflect on their careers, social lives, and future plans after rehabilitation. She brings strong skills in empathetic communication, patience, and guidance, which she hopes to extend to working with children. Her professional interests also include therapeutic riding, where she has gained experience through an internship, and she is eager to continue exploring how animals can positively impact human development. Theresa is motivated to combine her background in social work with her love for children by supporting them in discovering their abilities and strengths while experiencing cultural exchange abroad. Theresa is ready to join your family in November!

Nele is an Infant Care and Special Needs qualified Educator who grew up in a close-knit family environment that shaped her into a family-oriented individual. Inspired by the educators she admired as a child, she pursued vocational training as a social assistant and gained experience in multiple childcare facilities, working with diverse groups. Known for her empathy, patience, and adaptability, she tailors learning experiences to children's interests and prioritizes their well-being. In her free time, she enjoys creative activities, cooking, reading, and birdwatching. Holding a driver’s license since 2022, she has experience with daily commuting and long-distance trips. Eager to make a meaningful impact, she looks forward to contributing as a responsible and nurturing caregiver in your family beginning in December!

Robin is a 22 year old Educator who is excited about the opportunity to support a host family abroad. He has been working in a primary school since 2022, gaining hands-on experience in child development, education, and social support. Robin has also worked in a youth center, where organizing activities and providing a safe, encouraging environment for teenagers helped sharpen communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills. Known for being responsible, patient, and open-minded, Robin brings a love for creative activities, outdoor adventures, and sports—always eager to motivate children to stay active and have fun. In free time, Robin enjoys going to the gym, playing volleyball or paddle tennis, and is always open to trying new activities. He reports being a safe and confident driver, has lived away from home, and has no issues with family pets. Robin is excited to become a positive influence in a family's daily life beginning in December!

Rebecca (Becci) is a 25 yr old passionate and experienced Early Childhood Educator from Germany with over three years of hands-on experience working with children aged 1 to 6 in kindergartens, daycare programs, and residential settings. She has also supported children and adults with disabilities, developing patience, empathy, and creative problem-solving skills that allow her to provide reliable, nurturing, and structured care. Rebecca is committed to working closely with families, supporting children’s growth, routines, and emotional development while creating a positive and joyful environment. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys staying active through hiking, skiing, biking, and dance, as well as exploring new places, cooking, and playing musical instruments. Her energetic, open-hearted, and dependable nature makes her a wonderful addition to any host family starting in December

Nathalie is a 22-year-old Occupational Therapist with qualifications in special needs care. She has gained valuable experience working with children in a variety of settings, including occupational therapy practices, hospitals, a foster home, and through teaching both first aid and swimming courses. Nathalie is also a certified lifeguard and has volunteered as a first aider, further demonstrating her commitment to helping others. Described as honest, cheerful, and curious, Nathalie brings a positive and engaged attitude to her work. In her free time, she enjoys reading, drawing, cycling, dancing, and swimming. She has been driving for one year and considers herself a cautious and attentive driver. Nathalie is excited about the opportunity to support your family starting in January 2026.

Rike, a 22-year-old Occupational Therapist who is special needs care qualified and is passionate about working with children and supporting their development through creative, empathetic, and individualized care. She lives in a cozy village apartment with her cat Moritz and enjoys spending time outdoors, especially riding horses—a hobby she has loved since childhood. Rike actively assists in therapeutic riding sessions and is currently completing an internship focused on pediatric therapy, where she combines playfulness with clear guidance. Known for her determination, warmth, and strong sense of responsibility, she brings both professional knowledge and heartfelt dedication to her work. Drawn to the idea of a year abroad, she hopes to broaden her therapeutic approach, improve her language skills, and grow personally and professionally by immersing herself in a new culture. In her free time, Rike enjoys horseback riding, unique local sports like "Autoringstechen," exploring new activities with friends, and spending holidays at her family’s cherished home in Sweden. With five years of daily driving experience in all weather conditions, she feels confident managing transportation needs and is eager to become a supportive, active presence in a host family’s life beginning in January 2026!