Meet our team

Michelle has worked in the social service sector for 14 years, spending 10 years at Mirror Counselling Service as a child and adolescent counsellor, intake coordinator and the current Co Kaihautū Oranga - clinical team leader for the counselling team. Additionally, Michelle is an intern as a Child Play Works Child Centred Play Therapist.

Michelle’s passion is working with children who have experienced relational and developmental trauma and attachment work with parents and caregivers.

Dr Susan Sharp is a fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatry with an Advanced Certificate in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She currently is based in Auckland at Te Toka Tumai where she works with children and young people with eating disorders.

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Professor Sanders is a proud New Zealander who completed his primary (Kelston Primary School), intermediate (Avondale Intermediate School), secondary (Kelston Boys High School), undergraduate, and master's at the University of Auckland.

Matt transferred to the University of Queensland in 1979, where he completed his PhD studies in clinical psychology in 1981. He has been on the academic staff at the University of Queensland since 1979.

Matt has maintained strong academic connections with colleagues from education and psychology in a number of New Zealand Universities since moving to Australia.

The first foundational studies that formed the basis of Triple P began in Auckland in1978 with families primarily from South Auckland.

Matt has been a regular visitor to NZ and held an adjunct professor position in the Faculty of Education, where he has been involved in collaborating with local researchers in conducting multiple RCT’s on the effects of Triple P with NZ families. He has personally trained all Triple P trainers in New Zealand and maintains regular contact with Triple P NZ.

Matt is strongly committed to making culturally informed evidence-based parenting support accessible to all NZ families.

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Helen has worked in the area of psychiatry for 15 years in Counties Manukau region as a crisis nurse, DAO and a clinical nurse specialist in mental health. She now runs her own business specialising in mental health and well-being using a holistic approach. A key focus is on lifestyle and nutritional medicine.

Helen is a registered comprehensive nurse, and has a Master’s in Health Science, Adv. Diploma in Nursing, and is a Cert. Life Coach.

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Di has held a varity of roles as a pracitionery in early intervention, behaviour intervention and as a national and regional behaviour trainer.  

She has been delivering the Incredible Years® Parent programme since 2010 and Incredible Years® Toddler since 2018. Di is a peer coach to several group leaders and delivers fidelity training when required.  

(Fatima) Natascha Lawrence is a registered clinical counsellor, BC registered play therapist, certified synergetic play therapy supervisor and EMDR practitioner.  She is a BIPOC first-generation Canadian settler of mixed Asian ancestry, an ADHDer, Queer and has a mobility disabilitydue to a chronic pain neurological condition.

With almost 20 years of experience, Natascha specialises in neurodiversity, particularly with FASD. Natascha has experience working with clients across different modalities and systems, including schools, hospitals, community mental health, and private practice, and has worked with individuals from birth to adulthood, couples and families.  

Dedicated to enlightening the world to see through the beauty of a neurodiversity lens, Natascha is the co-founder of the FASD Institute, which provides counselling, supervision, and education to clinicians, individuals, and families. Natascha is the creator of the Empowering Neurodiversity (END) Model™, a framework that guides clinicians on dismantling racism, ableism, oppression, and decolonizing their practices to empower neurodiversity.  

Most importantly, Natascha is the parent of two incredible neurodivergent children, one who has FASD.  

Natascha has an M.A., RCC, BCRPT

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Leigh Henderson is a geneticist and toxicologist who has had a career in academia, industry and government. She is a lived experience FASD expert as a result of the probable FASD diagnosis of a family member.  She is Chair of FASD-CAN, the national organisation for families and professionals who support individuals with FASD, and the individuals themselves. As such she has an in-depth awareness of the mental health and addiction issues affecting many people with FASD.

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Kim Milne is a parent to a young adult with FASD.  She found she has had to educate all those interacting with and supporting her son.  Kim has a keen interest in mental health and FASD-informed practice and is motivated in her mahi to address the many inequities facing people with FASD and their whānau.

Kim holds qualifications in history, political science, international politics, social work, and business management, and has worked for the government in various capacities for many years. 

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Eva Corson is a German born, New Zealander, who has trained in multi-systemic family counselling before coming to New Zealand over 20 years ago. She has been practising as a family counsellor and social worker since then. 

Eva currently works for Family Works Northern and her chosen modality is solution-focused therapy when working with taiohi. She believes it allows her to be creative while not losing sight of the client’s hopes, as well as the disciplined and focused methodology of SFBT. 

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Julia has worked for over 10 years in the commissioning and contract management of services across housing, adult social care, public health and mental health and addictions in both the United Kingdom and Aotearoa.

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“Through my role as Workforce Delivery Lead for Choice and Partnership Approach (CAPA)and Stocktake, I am hoping to support the ICAMH workforce to continue the important work they do in enhancing the wellbeing of our young people. ”

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Imaan’s role is to support the delivery of training by assisting the workforce delivery leads to manage all aspects of the events/trainings that they offer.

Her background is in administration, data and brand management. She has recently graduated from the University of Auckland with a BA in English and Media Studies.

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“Mental health is a passion of mine and so the opportunity to help facilitate and encourage conversations around youth mental health is really rewarding”

Annah Pickering is the regional coordinator of Tāmaki Makaurau NZPC Branch and has been involved in NZPC since 1999. She is a passionate advocate for sex workers rights globally and has presented on the issue at many local and international events as a representative of NZPC. Annah regularly provides commentary for media on sex workers rights issues, participates in field research, and provides guidance to researchers and policy makers.

Her expertise covers peer support, outreach worker, advisory roles working in areas of youth involved in sex work, migrant sex workers, Needle Exchange programme, supporting workers exiting institutions (in and out of care, exiting prisons, deportees, refugee), working alongside rainbow gender diverse workers, advocating for workers who are rough sleeping, homeless, family harm (domestic violence) working in a complex areas that needs crises intervention and prevention.

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Dianne is a clinical psychologist with many years of experience working with children and families. She has a background in secondary school teaching and playcentre early childhood, before retraining as a clinical psychologist. Her journey with Incredible Years began in 2001 when she completed her basic parent training. Back then, Dianne had a dream to see all parent, child and teacher Incredible Year programmes available in New Zealand and introduced IY to the health and education sectors in New Zealand. 

Her research includes an evaluation of the effectiveness of Incredible Years Parent Programme for solo mothers of children with ADHD, and an RCT evaluation of adding a home visiting intervention to improve outcomes for high risk families attending IYP. Dianne is experienced in delivering baby, toddler, basic, school age, advanced and autism parent programmes. She is a mentor in the parent programme and peer coach in parent autism. Dianne continues to deliver group leader training, peer coaching and support for IY facilitators in NZ.  

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Adrienne has been an RTLB for 25 years and and IYT facilitator and coach for 14 years. She facilitates at least two programmes a year for IYT and has been a part of IYT Aide programmes. She is also trained as an IY Autism Teacher.

In addition, she coaches RTLB and ECE facilitators face-to-face and online as well as facilitating the running of Taranaki regional IY days.

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Sandra is primary trained and has taught at various levels through to intermediate and worked as a resource teacher special needs prior to the RTLB service being established.  She was part of the original “Green Group” who trained in 1998 with the consortium of universities and has worked in primary, intermediate and secondary as an RTLB.  She trained in the Incredible Years Teacher programme in 2010 as a Peer Coach for the Teacher programme in 2012 and is accredited in both.  She is currently working towards accreditation as a mentor in the Teacher programme to support RTLB in their delivery at primary level.  

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Kathleen is a trainer for IY Classroom Dina, Teaher Classroom Management, and Incredible Beginnings Teacher programe. She provides on-going implementation support and consultation, as well as doing fidelity reviews for accreditation.

Lee Taylor Burt is a mentor for the Teacher Autism programme in New Zealand. She has a teaching background in kindergarten and has specialised in early intervention. She currently delivers the Incredible Years parent, teacher, teacher autism and Incredible Beginnings programmes. She trained in and previously delivered the Dina Dinosaur small group programme. Lee peer coaches group leaders delivering the parent, teacher and teacher autism programmes.

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Lisa is a Resource Teacher of Learning and Behaviour from Ōtautahi Cluster 35. She has a Masters in Specialist Teaching and has workedwith a diverse range of young people, their family/whānau, as well as school eams in special schools and mainstream settings.

She first trained in the Incredible Years Teacher programme in 2013 and is an accredited group leader and peer coach.

She is also trained in the Incredible Years Autism Teacher programme. Lisa is a member of the Incredible Years Teacher Practice Team and supports group leaders from around the country with their questions about IYT practice and delivery to ensure the programme is delivered with fidelity.

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Kim Thomson is an accredited Incredible Years Teacher Mentor, accredited Autism Teacher Peer Coach, Registered Educational Psychologist and Early Childhood Educator.

Her areas of interest are Incredible Years Teacher and Parent, Early Intervention

Kim is passionate about mentoring and supporting Incredible Years workforce development.

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Marthinus is a clinical psychologist with a range of experience in clinical work, research, and teaching across public, university, and private settings. Clinically, he has worked in roles ranging from child adolescent and family services, through to inpatient and forensic services. He has experience in conducting clinical and neuropsychological assessments, as well as delivering a wide range of cognitive, behavioural, and acceptance-based therapies, with a particular focus on dialectical behavioural therapy.

Marthinus has a MBSc, MSc(Dist), & PGDip Clin Psych,(Otago) PhD (ANU), DBT-LBC, MNZCCP

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Tipene Pickett has been an alcohol and drug counsellor forthe past 20 years. He possesses his own recovery story and has worked acrossvarious settings, including governmental, NGO’s, and in a private capacity. Hehas a background in group facilitation, motivational interviewing, relapse prevention,as well as Tikanga Māori based ways of healing, including Te Whare Tapa Wha(the four sides of the house), Powhiri (process of engagement), Poutama(Journey of healing and enlightenment), Pātūwatawata o te Marae (The palisadesof the Pā), and others.

As a practitioner and trainer of trainers in MI, Tipene wasexposed and “converted” into an MI practitioner in 2002 when a well-knowninternational trainer of trainers and researcher - Terri Moyers - had themutilise it on themselves. The changes that occurred in Tipene in a very shortspace of time were profound, leading to a desire to become familiar with this counsellingmodality.

Having undergone two train the trainers trainingexperiences, one MINT-endorsed in 2010 with Steve Martino and Joel Porter, andthe second being a MINT-endorsed Train the Trainer training in 2013 in Krakow,Poland, Tipene has a special interest in the relationship between Tikanga Māoriand MI. He has developed a model utilising the Pātūwatawata and Pōwhiriprocess, which includes the conversation of change that MI offers by making itTikanga consistent and acknowledging both the indigenous and western worldviewand processes.

As a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network ofTrainers, Tipene is part of a global community of people who share a similarvision of change and scrutiny of professional practice to be the most effectiveclinicians possible by embracing the way of being MI offers.

Tipene holds a P Grad Cert Health Sciences, BA Soc Sci –Psych & Anthro, is a Member of Motivational Interviewing Network ofTrainers (MINT), and is a DAPAANZ registered practitioner and supervisor.

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Karlie is a registered social worker and co-existing practitioner. She has worked in the psychosis area for six years and has also been a member of the New Zealand Early Intervention in Psychosis Society since 2020. She is passionate about early intervention and recovery in psychosis.

Karlie has a Bachelor of Social Work with Honours

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Ele is a registered mental health nurse and has worked in the mental health sector for five years. She has worked in two early intervention in psychosis teams in the UK and New Zealand. She has a passion for Japan, heavy metal, animals, her dog, art (and mental health!)

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Amanda is a registered occupational therapist with over 25 years experience in mental health sector. She has a passion for working with youth, seeing growth, early intervention and recovery in psychosis.

She has a Bachelor of Health Science (Occupational Therapy)

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Rachel has been a senior advisor and educator at Shine for over three years, and previously has worked in a frontline capacity with people experiencing family violence in the community.

Rachel spent time in Duluth with the Domestic Abuse Intervention Programme and was involved with the Palmerston North Women’s Refuge, both as a volunteer and a member of the Board of Governors.

Rachel has a Master’s Degree in Social and Community Leadership.

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Joanne established Wananga Hapuutanga in Tamaki-Makaurau 31years ago and has her own lived journey with perinatal mental health challenges.

She continues to provide wananga for many providers, focusing on restoring the mana of birthing to whanau.

Joanne believes restoring traditional knowledge and practices is key to reducing the negative statistics for Māori in the perinatal mental health space.

She is the kaumatua for PADA and has created a trauma-informed perinatal mental health workshop Hine tu Hine Ora.

Her vision is simple - Aotearoa being a place where Kaupapa Māori approaches to perinatal mental health are valued and all parents to have the resources to provide the best possible start for their pēpi.

Her mission is to ensure that the inequities within maternity and Perinatal mental health services are eliminated.

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Tracey has facilitated parent courses and professional workshops on ADHD for over 10 years.  Through her lived experience of ADHD, Tracey can bring a personal perspective of raising ADHD children and being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult.

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Lynne joined Parent to Parent and Altogether Autism in 2014as a coordinator and worked as a facilitator for PRISM.  Lynne currently works as a contracted facilitator for Altogether Autism and has been providing accessible online training for educator’s parents and professionals in partnership with the “Safe for Children” educational platform since 2019.

The workshops that Lynne facilitates range from introductory professional development training in supporting autistic tamariki, to more in-depth training around supporting autistic rangatahi. She also provides inhouse training specific to groups requesting professional development through the Safe for Children platform.  She has had experience presenting to various groups such as the NZSTA around inclusive education and served for several years on a high school board. Lynne also collaborates with other organisations within the community and other providers within the Safe for Children network.

Lynne has a lived experience of supporting someone with autism and is passionate about educating and creating more awareness about autism to support whanau.

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Sanam Bagherian is autism specialist facilitator and has a strong interest in autism and neurodiversity. Her Ph.D. focused on autism, which included delivering psychoeducational programmes to support parents with autistic children for several years, and more recently has worked with autistic adults.

Sanam has published over six studies and presented at events including the 5th World Congress on Positive Psychology (July 2017). She is passionate about sharing up to date, in-depth and reliable neurodiversity and autism information, and developing practical strategies for the community.

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Sheila has a background in early childhood education having worked as a kindergarten teacher and early intervention teacher in schools and preschools. She has also worked extensively with families.  

Over the last 10 years she has worked fulltime delivering the Incredible Years programmes, and is an accredited peer coach in the Incredible Years Parent, Teacher, and Teacher Autism programmes. Sheila is also trained in the small group Dinosaur programme and Incredible Beginnings programme.  

She is a mentor in the Incredible Years Autism Teacher programme in Aotearoa New Zealand.

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Grayson is a community focused kau-design practitioner, actor, artist, and community event facilitator. He brings together his own lived experience of intergenerational trauma and Parihaka-tanga, with a profound dedication to resilient communities. Grayson intentionally positions himself within resilient communities, viewing adversity as fertile ground for growth.

As a co-founding director of Mauwai, Grayson works towards connecting transitioning youth with indigenously responsible learning environments. Mauwai’s bold vision is to showcase the immeasurable value of indigenous interaction, cultural stewardship, and self-expression in reaffirming mana motuhake (self-determination).

Driven by the transformative potential of mana-enhancing, regenerative-taiao based frameworks, Grayson also founded Whakamana, a Kaupapa Māori social enterprise. Whakamana's primary focus is nurturing and nourishing identity and community. Collaborating with Auckland Council the initiative delivers "Te paparahi toi Māori" guided tours, providing a unique lens of Te Ao Māori (the Māori worldview) to the wider community and visitors. These meticulously curated tours are hosted by resilient members of Tamaki Makaurau's community, offering an authentic and immersive experience of the city.

Grayson actively champions indigenous knowledge, cultural stewardship, and self-expression through his work with Mauwai and Whakamana, consistently demonstrating the interconnectedness of vision for resilient communities and the transformative power of embracing indigenous perspectives.

Dr Byron Seiuli is a Samoan clinical psychologist with over 25 years’ experience of working in the therapeutic environment in Aotearoa, NZ and the Pacific. As a senior Pacific researcher and health clinician, Byron brings extensive knowledge and experience in the areas of Pacific health, cultural training and supervision, family relationships, suicide prevention, sexual abuse, trauma, grief and loss, adolescence mental health, addiction, and clinical assessment and treatment.

Byron has published on Samoan and Pacific people’s well-being and his works on the Uputaua Therapeutic Approach and Meaalofa Counselling methods are well used in therapeutic circles in NZ and abroad.

Byron’s current work includes assessment and treatment for ACC, Department of Corrections, Kia Puawai, EAP and private contracts.

Dr Craig Immelman is a child, adolescent, and general psychiatrist in private practice in Auckland, and an honorary lecturer at the Department of Psychological Medicine at the University of Auckland. He is a graduate of the University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, and completed his post-graduate training in psychiatry in Auckland in 2001. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Psychiatry.

Dr Immelman has broad clinical interests, is a Fellow of the Faculty of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry as well as a member of the section of Forensic Psychiatry (RANZCP). His special interests include Foetal Alcohol Syndrome, eating disorders and youth justice. He also consults to a number of district health boards. He provides expert opinion to courts and holds the designation of Specialist Assessor relating to Intellectual Disability.

Dr Immelman provides expert commentary for Behavioural Disorders Review.

Patrick Mendes has worked in adult and child/adolescent areas of mental health for the past 16 years. He has worked at two of the three Auckland CAMHS services (Kari Centre ADHB and Whirinaki CMDHB-2008-9) during the last eight years and provides a full range of cultural experience and interventions. He has particular expertise in the child and adolescent field working with Māori rangatahi (young people), and their whānau.  

His current role includes working in a multi-disciplinary team of psychiatrist, clinical psychologists, social workers, and nurses to ensure quality access, assessment and therapy for Māori whānau entering the Regional Youth Forensic Service. He works across the Taiohi Tu Taiohi Ora clinical teams hosted by the Regional Youth Forensic Service, including making first whānau contact for assessments, as well as working directly with rangatahi and their whānau.  

In a wider scope Patrick Mendes is responsible for the provision of cultural competence training for mental health staff to ensure quality and cultural integrity at the Kari Centre.

Patrick Mendes has a Bachelor of Social Science degree majoring in Māori and Psychology from Waikato University (1996-1999).

Te Hou Ora is a Kaupapa Māori organisation that has served the Ōtepoti community since 1976. Their mission is to support tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau by providing a range of services aimed at building resilience, enhancing early learning, fostering parenting skills, educating rangatahi, and reducing offending. With a commitment to cultural identity and the application of reo me ngā tikanga Māori, Te Hou Ora seeks to empower individuals and families to create positive opportunities and break cycles of hardship.

Dr. Ian Lambie brings over 30 years of experience in clinical psychology, merging practical nursing skills with academic expertise. His journey began as a nurse in acute psychiatric and surgical settings, providing a solid foundation for his transition into clinical psychology.

With a psychology degree from Otago University and clinical psychology training from the University of Auckland, Dr. Ian Lambie specialised in working intensively with adolescents with harmful sexual behaviours and children with conduct problems for over a decade. His approach often involved outdoor wilderness therapy and family therapy, aimed at fostering positive change in young lives.

As an academic, Dr. Ian Lambie has collaborated with various government departments and community groups, using research to drive real-world solutions. Currently serving as chief science advisor for the justice sector, he advises on strategies to enhance the effectiveness of the justice system. In recognition of his contributions, Dr. Ian was honoured as an Officer of The New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in 2020 for services to youth justice and clinical psychology.

Peter Thorburn triumphed over a challenging 23-year battle with addiction, including 8 years of dependency on methamphetamine. Following his release from prison in 2005 on drug-related charges, Peter experienced a profound transformation that set him on a path of recovery and personal growth.

Motivated by a strong desire to make a positive impact in the field of mental health and addiction, Peter pursued higher education and attained an undergraduate degree along with postgraduate qualifications. He is an AOD clinician, clinical supervisor, consumer representative, and a facilitator of inspiring and empowering training opportunities not only for professionals working in the sector, but our young people within schools and alternative education environments, also in places that many would deem hard to reach communities. 

In 2006, while still studying, Peter co-founded the Counties Manukau Alcohol and Drug Consumer Network, which has since evolved into the DRIVE Consumer Network. His involvement in this initiative allowed him to work closely with Counties Manukau to develop the pioneering AOD Peer Support contract, a significant milestone in consumer-led support services.

For a decade, from 2007 to 2017, Peter contributed his expertise to ABACUS Counselling Training and Supervision Ltd. This valuable period provided him with the opportunity to collaborate with some of the most experienced addiction and mental health specialists in Aotearoa. Peter's work has extended to various organisations in the public and corporate sectors, including the New Zealand Police, Oranga Tamariki, Youthline, schools, Odyssey House, Pathways, Matua Raki, Emerge Aotearoa, Salvation Army, Health Promotion Agency, Fonterra, Fletchers, Auckland City Mission, and many others.

In August 2017, Peter established Meth Education and Solution Services Limited (Mess NZ) to continue contributing his expertise to the sector throughout Aotearoa. Pete’s most passionate about preventing our rangatahi entering systems and developing the capacity of communities and whanau to selfheal. His dedication and passion for the field remain unwavering as he strives to make a meaningful difference.

Trainings provided by Pete Thorburn of Meth Education and Solution Services Limited (MESS NZ) are DAPAANZ points approved, demonstrating their alignment with professional development standards. Furthermore, participation in this training may qualify for recognition of professional development with other registering bodies.

Ursula McCulloch is a consultant clinical psychologist working with Te Whatu Ora Health NZ – Waitaha Canterbury in the Children Under 5 Team and the Paediatric Feeding Team. She has many years of experience in working with children in child and adolescent mental health services and has acted as a consultant to schools in Canterbury. Ursula is a subject matter expert for Leading Lights, an online mental health and wellbeing resource for schools. She provides training to psychiatry registrars on family therapy, as well as doing trainings and webinars on working with restricted eating and ARFID.

Bindy formerly worked as a lawyer at the Teaching Council and gave legal advice around allegations of serious misconduct. This often involved cases where teachers had crossed professional boundaries with students.  

This experience motivated her and Rachel Kent to run courses on professional boundaries and professionalism in the workplace.

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Dr Delmage is a consultant in adolescent forensic psychiatry and an assistant professor at the University of Nottingham. He is currently based at Ngā Taiohi Unit which is a secure inpatient service for young people who present with mental health problems and risk to others.

He has written book chapters related to aspects of adolescent forensic healthcare and has also contributed to national discussions in the UK related to the minimum age of criminal responsibility, as well as having presented his work which is part of an ongoing PhD in Law at an international conference. He has given evidence in the Court of Appeal and to the Justice Select Committee in the United Kingdom and he has been a member of the National Clinical Reference Group in the UK which has a strategic role in service development.

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In her role as a Project Support Coordinator, Laura provides behind the scenes support and logistics to both the Christchurch and wider Whāraurau team to ensure the delivery of training and other events.

She has previously worked in administration roles for the Ministry of Social Development, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, a mentoring charity and an advocacy charity for people with physical/intellectual disabilities. Laura has also worked for an event company.

Laura has a Bachelor of Arts in music composition for film and media.

"It’s important for me to be a strong foundation for the wider Whāraurau team so that we can always be moving forward, together, alongside the mental health workforce. I’m proud that my role with Whāraurau allows me to work with and  support so many different people who are all working towards achieving better youth mental health outcomes."  

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As a Pacific Clinical Advisor, Siosinita works with the other cultural advisors to ensure that infant, child, adolescent and youth and alcohol and other drugs workforce gets the support they need to do their mahi in a culturally responsive way. Her focus is on improving the wellbeing of Pacific whānau and mokopuna in order to enrich Aotearoa.

Siosinita has worked as a care and protection social worker and as a Pacific advisor for the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services(CAMHS). In addition she was the founder of Heilala Fungani – a positive parenting programme tailored specifically for Tongan parents, caregivers and whānau with children aged 0-5 years of age.

Siosinita has a Bachelor of Arts in social policy and a Master of Social Work (Applied).

“My journey is a testament to the belief that strong, supported families are the bedrock of a flourishing society. My role as a Pacific Advisor is not merely a professional duty but a deeply personal calling. It is vital tome because it allows me to bridge the gap between the rich cultural tapestry of the Pacific community and the mental health services in Aotearoa. I am passionate about creating a space where the cultural heritage of Pacific peoples is not only acknowledged but celebrated and integrated into the mental health support we provide. It is my fervent belief that this holistic approach is crucial for the well-being of our Pacific whānau, and it resonates with the very core of my being. This role represents my commitment to making a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those I serve"

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Vicky’s role is to assist Whāraurau with finanical planning, forecasting, variance analysis and budgeting across all projects.

She has a background in banking and credit control, and has worked as an assistant accountant within the construction, government and service sectors.

Vicky has a Bachelor of Business in Accounting and is currently studying for a Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (CA) with CAANZ. She is a provisional CA member and also has a Diploma in Music.

“By supporting the Whāraurau team to manage project funding, I feel I’m playing my part in building the capacity of the workforce working with our young people. Making sure we maximise the way we use funding means we can make the greatest impact possible.”  

Te Aroha is a member of the Whāraurau cultural advisory team. Her role is to provide cultural support and guidance to the wider Whāraurau team. As part of this she engages with Māori stakeholders and promotes Māori infant, child and youth initiatives. Her role is also focused on enhancing communication and information sharing with key Māori stakeholders, with the aim of improving the cultural competence of the workforce.

Te Aroha is a trained nurse and has worked for the Growing up in New Zealand longitudinal study as a Māori engagement interviewer. She is also a documentary director and so uses storytelling as a way to engage, and create change.

She has a Bachelor of Health Science and Certificates in Waka and Health Care Support. In addition Te Aroha has a diploma in Te Reo Māori and on-screen production.

“My role is important to me because I work as an advocate. I represent a voice for the Māori people. As seen in the public health data, we are a minority and face some of the biggest disparities across the health, education and justice system. I feel a sense of duty to leverage my skills and experience to try and implement much needed change on a systemic level. Working directly with the workforce and government organisations, I feel I have a better chance at doing exactly that.”

Shelley is the project manager for the Incredible Years® programme . Her role is to develop and ensure the delivery of Incredible Years® training to the workforce. This involves managing a range of stakeholder relationships, including sub-contractors, MOE staff and the Incredible Years® front-facing workforce. She also plays a significant role in website and database development and maintenance.

Her background is in medical virology, website and database creation / maintenance and project management.

Shelley has a National Diploma in Medical Technology (Virology) and a National Diploma in Information Technology (Website development) from Cape Town University of Technology.

“I am committed to supporting the implementation of evidence-based parenting programmes to ensure great long-term outcomes for all whānau and tamariki. I enjoy helping people to develop their skills that will also help their communities.”

As a Youth Consumer Advisor, Nicole uses her lived-experince and other skills to help advise the sector on the needs of rangatahi of all backgrounds in Aotearoa.

She has previously worked as a project coordinator for Migrante Aotearoa, which is a grassroots non-governmental organisation that supports Filipino migrants. Nicole is also actively engaged in human rights activism.

“My role as a YCA allows me to create resources and advocate for spaces that resonate with the unique challenges and perspectives of our diverse rangatahi in Aotearoa. I strive to empower the workforce by providing them with the knowledge and resources they need to effectively support young tāngata whaiora.”

Neil provides logistical and organisational support for events and trainings delivered to the infant, child, adolescent and youth mental health workforce. This involves collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure all aspects of work are completed to a high standard and on time.

Neil has previously worked for other non-governmental organisations such as Ember Korowai Takitini, ADHB and Be. Lab to support our workforce and communities in the mental health and disability sector.

Neil has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

“I believe Whāraurau’s work is important as it provides accessible learning opportunities and spaces for our workforce to continue to grow their skills and capabilities so that they can support our communities to thrive.”

Michelle has overall accountability for the effective delivery of workforce development solutions and works in collaboration with the senior management team to achieve this

Michelle has experience in education, healthcare services management, policy, gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI); both nationally and internationally. She has led teams and designed, developed and delivered education programmes in nursing, specifically - child and youth health, disability, mental health and transitioning to employment. Michelle managed the NZ Medical Treatment Scheme across six Pacific Island countries and designed, developed and taught a post graduate qualification in child health nursing for Pacific nurses in Fiji and Tonga. Michelle was also clinical nurse director for Kidz First and Women’s Health in Counties Manukau, and an academic and clinical lecturer in nursing at Manukau Institute of Technology.

She has a Master of Nursing, Bachelor of Science (Nursing), Cert. Arts and is a Registered Nurse

“This role is important to me because I am able to support an amazing team that works nationally to build an incredible workforce within the infant, child, adolescent and youth mental health and alcohol and other addictions space.”  

Maddy’s role is to support the wider Whāraurau team to successfully deliver training and professional development to the infant, child, adolescent and youth mental health sector.

She has previously worked with the Ministry of Justice in Wellington and has had a range of other customer service roles.

Maddy has a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy & Political Science with a minor in Commercial Law.

“My role is important to me because through it I can contribute to the mental health space by providing support to projects that, in the bigger picture, create a ripple effect outwards for the workforce.”

Kristin is responsible for managing projects related to  strengthening the provision of eating disorder and disordered eating services in Aotearoa New Zealand, as well as workforce development for those supporting rangatahi who are under the care and protection of Oranga Tamariki.

She has worked in rehabilitation and clinical/translational research for over ten years, and is a speech therapist, clinical supervisor and lecturer with inpatient and acute care experience. Kristin has co-authored multiple publications including a textbook titled ‘Dysphagia following Stroke.’ She specialises in working with individuals with neurologic impairment, including traumatic brain injury, and swallowing/feeding disorders. Kristin also has significant experience in research funding and grant management.

Kristin has a Master of Science from the University of Washington and a PhD from the University of Canterbury.

“I am passionate about leveraging my clinical and research experience to drive positive change for the workforce, helping to make a meaningful difference for whānau and communities in Aotearoa NZ.”

Kieran is responsible for designing and developing online courses in collaboration with workforce delivery leads, principal advisors and subject matter experts. He also manages and operates Whāraurau’s learning management system.

Kieran previously worked in education and community development roles, facilitating learning as well as developing and coordinating programs.

He has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology, as well as a Bachelor of Arts (with First Class Honours) in Sociology.

“My role is important to me because I feel it can make learning and professional development more accessible to a range of learners, whether that is geographically, temporally or at an appropriate learning level for those supporting some of the most vulnerable in Aotearoa.”

Julliet is responsible for leading data analysis and evaluation activity for Whāraurau and for providing technical expertise across our data collection initiatives. She is also responsible for heading the evaluation of all Whāraurau training, event, and online course activities.

Julliet began her career in youth mental health research, piloting a depression prevention study in students in high schools in Auckland. She has been with Whāraurau for 20 years, originally joining when it was the Werry Centre.

She has a Masters in Science – majoring in psychology.

“I’m a huge advocate for prevention and early intervention, and working at Wharaurau and in the infant, child and youth mental health sector allows me to contribute to and support the work that I have always firmly believed in.”

Joycelyn is responsible for lead coordination of a range of projects to ensure their effective development and delivery to the workforce. She provides leadership / mentoring for project managers and oversight across specific projects and their deliverables.

Her experience in the social services and education sectors is significant having held a wide variety of roles including managing teams in Family Harm, Family Start and Building Financial Capabilities, and Family Services Centres. She has also been responsible for the design and development of a range of NZQA approved courses.

Joycelyn has a Master’s in Educational Leadership, Bachelor’s in Education, Diploma in Teaching (Specialised in Early Childhood Education), Postgraduate Certificates in Education, Adult Teaching, Home and Community Auditing, and Childcare and Protection, a Leadership Certificate from the University of Auckland, a Postgraduate diploma in Social Services Supervision, and a New Zealand Diploma in Business.

“The future of our workforce is in our hands, and our mahi enables them to be effective in enhancing the wellbeing of our mokopuna.  As part of a collective community, I dedicate my skills, experience, and quality of practice to supporting them, and through the spirit of generosity to the workforce progressing forward.”

As the Marketing Communications Advisor, Jenny is responsible for the strategic development of Whāraurau’s brand and marketing with the aim of ensuring the organisation is recognised in the sector as a leader in training and professional development.

She has an extensive background in marketing and communications and has worked in both the commercial and not-for-profit sectors. She has been responsible for the development and roll out of community investment programmes that supported the brand of a large energy company and has worked on multiple branding projects.

Jenny has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Auckland

“Our young people are our future and the rise in youth suicide rates in New Zealand is shocking. These are just two compelling reasons why I’ve chosen to work in this space. If I can, in some small way, positively impact the lives of young New Zealanders, I will have satisfied a key goal for my life.”

As a Project Support Coordinator Jennie is responsible for pre and post event/training coordination and communications.

Jennie’s background is in customer support, clinical records coordination, and therapeutic youth mentoring. She has also worked as an editorial intern for lifestyle magazine Verve, and as a crisis response worker.

She has a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in psychology and communications.

“It is a privilege to work within the NZ mental health sector. This mahi combines my passion for people and wellbeing. It is important to me to be both serving and advocating for the mental health needs of rangatahi and whānau.”

Fiona works as a Workforce Delivery Lead in the youth forensics area, and so is responsible for growing the capacity of the workforce who work with rangatahi who are at increased risk of involvement with the youth justice and youth forensic systems.

She has over 25 years of experience working in the social services sector including specialist youth, alcohol and other drugs, mental health, and homeless services, as well as workforce education.

Fiona has a Master of Professional Practice (Dist), a Post Graduate Certificate in Health Science, Bachelor of Social Services (Dist) and a Certificate in Adult Education.

“I value the opportunity in my role to empower kaimahi with the skills and knowledge evidenced as required for effective engagement with rangatahi at risk of involvement with youth justice and youth forensic systems. I envision through this we collectively contribute to improved outcomes for rangatahi and their whanau.”

Eden’s role is to advocate and advise on behalf of rangatahi with lived experience. Her focus is on ensuring their voices are reflected in Whāraurau’s mahi and beyond.

Her background includes working with various youth advisory groups and panels, as well as within organisations like Youthline and Auckland Council.

“My role is profoundly significant to me due to my personal experiences and the valuable insights of those around me. I firmly believe in the power of youth and lived experience voices to drive positive change. Advocating for others is a genuine privilege.”

Bradley provides project support to the Whāraurau team to ensure events, training and other activities are well managed and executed.

He has recently completed his Bachelor of Science, majoring in mathematics and minoring in psychology.

“Being a part of the Whāraurau whanau is important to me as it is has allowed me to work in a professional environment alongside compassionate and driven colleagues. It has also enabled me to have a positive impact on the wider community.”

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As an e-Learning Designer, Preeti is responsible for developing online courses for the infant, child, adolescent and youth mental health sector. This utilises her experience in education, as well as her knowledge of e-Learning solutions.

She has experience in developing interactive and learner-centred online, blended and in-person learning experiences at the tertiary level and has been responsible for the design and implementation of large-scale public health programmes in Asia.

Preeti has a PhD in Psychology and her thesis was focused on understanding the impact of mobile phone-based health tools on health related decision-making.

“My work allows me to advocate for inclusive and accessible e-learning by bridging the gap between traditional and digital learning, ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.”

Romy is responsible for managing the youth lived experience projects at Whāraurau. This includes  managing the Youth Advisory team, as well as leading the organisation’s lived experience workforce development mahi.

She has had a range of lived experience and peer roles having had her own experience of navigating the mental health and addiction system as a young person. Romy has worked nationally and internationally, and been recognised for the leadership roles she has held within the sector.

Romy has recently completed her Bachelor of Counselling and Addiction Practice and holds a Dapaanz provisional registration.

“I am passionate about young peoples voices being elevated to the highest level, where decisions are made, as the system we work in ultimately affects the lives of young people journeying through the mental health and addiction system.”

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Mali is one of our Pacific Cultural Advisors and her work is centred on supporting the infant, child, adolescent, and youth mental health workforce grow their level of cultural competency.

Mali is a prominent and well-respected figure within the Pacific health and mental health community. She has been recognised for her contribution to this sector with a New Zealand Order of Merit. She has led a number of important initiatives including founding the first Pacific Women's Refuge in 1989, being involved in reponding to family violence within the Niue community as lead facilitator of the Fakatupuolamoui framework. Mali also spearheaded the Niue Wellbeing Strategi Plan 2023-2025.

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Emily is responsible for supporting and coordinating the delivery of high-quality reporting, data analysis, evaluation and communication outputs across the Whāraurau team.

Emily has worked in a variety of positions involving data management, communications and event logistics, including time spent with Health Care New Zealand as a national workforce coordination lead.

Emily has a Bachelor of Health Science in population health, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

“Through my commitment to quality assurance and improvement of our workforce trainings, I feel a strong sense of contribution to effective and accessible mental health services for all tamariki, whānau, and communities in Aotearoa”

In her role as Marketing Communications Coordinator, Ella is responsible for ensuring Whāraurau’s work is effectively communicated to the workforce and other stakeholders. She provides marketing and communication support to the wider Whāraurau team and helps promote events, training and online courses to the sector.

Ella has previously held marketing and communications roles in the construction sector and has worked in a marketing agency that specialised in working with Māori and Pasifika businesses.

She has a Bachelor of Communications Studies.

“This role is important to me because it lets me use my skills to communicate effectively with those in the mental health sector who are making a difference in Aotearoa.”

Jane is both the Office Manager and Line Manager for the project support team at Whāraurau. In this role she is responsible for providing professional office and facilities management, as well as ensuring the project support team are administering and delivering training across the motu.

She has over 25 years management and leadership experience within the not-for-profit sector, primarily in infant and maternal mental health.

Jane has a Graduate Diploma in Not-for-Profit Management.

“Having lead a small NGO, I understand the challenges the workforce face on a day-to-day basis. I strongly believe that workforce development will lead to a motivated and competent workforce, resulting in positive outcomes for our tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau.”

As a Workforce Delivery Lead at Whāraurau, Jo’s role primarily involves leading workforce development initiatives. She specialises in alcohol and drug use and co-existing problems with young people.

Jo is a registered AOD practitioner and, over the past 15 years, has worked in the youth sector in various roles, primarily focused on mental health and addictions. She has experience in co-existing problems (CEP) in young people, managing clinical teams, supervision, operational management, and teaching/training.

Jo has a Bachelor of Alcohol and Drug Studies, Certificate of Supervision, Postgraduate Certificate in Management and a Master of Theology (2024).

“I’m passionate about helping the infant, child, adolescent and youth mental health work force to become more culturally responsive and clinically skilled so that it improves outcomes for our tamariki and taiohi.”

As a Workforce Delivery Lead at Whāraurau, Jannine’s role primarily involves spearheading initiatives that promote inclusive workforce development. She specialises in trauma-informed care and perinatal mental health.

Originally from the Fiji Islands and with a background as a registered nurse, Jannine has accumulated over seven years of experience in general medical, defence force, and mental health/AOD nursing.

Jannine has a Bachelor’s of Nursing, Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health, Postgraduate Certificates in Forensic Psychology, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Clinical Supervision.

“I'm deeply committed to facilitating workforce development that embraces the multicultural diversity of Aotearoa. It's not just a job, it's my way of contributing to a more inclusive and supportive mental health landscape for all.

Josie is responsible for coordinating, supporting, and reporting on project activities. This involves collaborating with Workforce Delivery Leads and the wider Whāraurau team to ensure high-quality project delivery, and ultimately to support the development and delivery of workforce development activities.

Her experience includes event management, communications, hospitality and project support.

Josie has a Bachelor of Communications – majoring in event management.

“My role is significant to me because it allows me to contribute to the successful coordination and development of projects, which, in turn, helps our organisation achieve its goals and positively impact our communities.

As a Workforce Delivery Manager, Bronwyn is responsible for overseeing various programmes of work. She is specifically responsible for Mana ake, a school-based programme.

Bron has extensive experience in working in the infant, child, adolescent and youth mental health and alcohol and other drug sectors, specifically the primary and secondary service level.

She has a Masters in Health Science, a Bachelor of Nursing and is a Dapaanz practitioner.

“I have a strong interest in professional and workforce development, and am passionate about improving the wellbeing of tamariki, taiohi and their whānau.”

Stacey leads the Cultural Advisory team, focusing on implementing equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi nationally across infant, child, adolescent and youth mental health workforce. 

Stacey acquired her experience in effective māori child pedagogy approaches through a decade of youth work in the far north, extensive involvement in Kura Kaupapa Māori Te Aho Matua, Te Kōhanga Reo, and a life time of exposure to traditional wānanga (esoteric) concepts. 

Stacey has provided cultural support and supervision to multi-disciplinary and clinical settings including youth justice, alternative education, care and protection, family violence and school counselling.

She has a Diploma in Child and Adolescent Psychology.

I was taught ‘ko te mokopuna te take’ – mokopuna are the purpose.  This role challenges me to create change in the future by tapping into indigenous collectivist wisdom of the past, and promoting tools to respect whānau agency in the present.  Tihewā, he mauri ora.

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As Operations Manager, Louise is responsible for supporting the overall performance and success of Whāraurau through robust operational processes. She is part of the senior management team, providing strategic and operational support.

Louise has over ten years of experience in roles within academia, youth mental health services, health and social care standards development, change management and contracts management, both in Ireland and New Zealand.

She completed her PhD and postdoctoral research in the area of youth mental health and mental health stigma in Dublin, Ireland. Louise’s postdoctral research involved data analysis of the My World Survey: Ireland’s largest and most comprehensive study of young people’s mental health and wellbeing. As well as her PhD, Louise has a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Psychology and a Certificate in Statistics from the Royal Statistical Society.

“At some point in our lives, mental health and addiction will impact us, or the lives of our loved ones or whānau. I am passionate about improving mental health literacy and reducing stigma to promote open and progressive conversations about mental health and addiction. I believe strongly in the work Whāraurau does to support professionals working in this space.”

Lisa leads Te Taunaki Mātua Pouako, the Parent and Teacher team which provides workforce training and support to the MOH regional roll out of Triple P Positive Parenting Programmes and MoE national Incredible Years - Parent and Incredible Years - Teacher Classroom Management programmes.

Her background includes working in child and adolescent mental health, maternal mental health, and working with those having experienced trauma in childhood. Lisa has also trained practitioners to deliver the suite of Triple P programmes and delivered Triple P programmes.  

Lisa has a Masters of Science and Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology. She is an qualified International Triple P trainer and Incredible Years Parent facilitator.

“Imagining kids across Aotearoa being surrounded by well supported whanau and teachers drives me in my role getting transformative programmes in the hands of amazing providers.”

Karin is a Senior Consultant Clinical Psychologist and as a Principal Advisor supports various Workforce Delivery Leads in an advisory capacity.
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She has a varied portfolio that includes sector leadership, trauma, and the Youth Advisory Team and is involved in many of the Whāraurau projects.

Karin managed DHB infant, child and youth mental health and addiction services and had several years in planning and funding. She currently has a small private practice and works with ACC and Victim Support clients.

As a Principal Advisor Bronwyn (Bron) is responsible for engaging with the infant, child, adolescent and youth mental health workforce in order to determine training and development needs. In addition she oversees the delivery of events, training and other professional development activities, with specific reference to adverse childhood experiences, quality improvement and leadership.

Bronwyn has a extensive experience in working with young people and their whānau in both clinical and managerial settings, and has also worked in the tertiary education sector.

Bronwyn has a PhD in Psychology and is a Registered Nurse and has a Masters of Education in Counselling (dist)

“Our futures depend on the wellbeing of tamariki, rangatahi and whānau.  Supporting workforces focusing on wellbeing is a privilege and a passion for me.”

As the Director of Whāraurau, Abi is responsible for working with the Whāraurau team and key stakeholders to identify workforce needs and develop partnerships to build the skills and capability of the infant, child, adolescent and youth mental health and addictions workforce.

Abi has worked in various project and policy roles, and led teams in local and national government. She has managed workforce development programmes in youth mental health, rural health workforce recruitment and retention, and primary care public health policy.

Abi has undergraduate qualifications in law and health science, and post graduate qualifications in business administration.

“I’m committed to being part of the collective effort to achieve equitable outcomes for mokopuna Māori and for minority populations throughout Aotearoa and so I’m passionate about improving the well-being of our workforce and the young people and whānau they serve.”

Poipoia te kākano kia puāwai – nurture the seed and it will bloom. We all need to be cared for to fully realise our potential.

As a Youth Consumer Advisor, Abi works with the Whāraurau team on internal projects and events while also advising the wider external workforce. A considerable amount of time is spent working with rangatahi to understand their perspectives and experiences, integrating their voices into Whāraurau’s work. She is also responsible for mentoring two new Youth Consumer Advisors.

Abi’s advocacy journey began when she served as a Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury Youth Advisory Council member and latterly working as co-chair. Whilst working for Whāraurau she has taken on various external advisory positions, including a role as Rangatahi Advisor for the Health Navigator Te Wero Project.

Abi has completed the He Pūawai Manukura – Lived Experience Leadership Training, and has a Bachelor of Performing Arts.

“I am thrilled to play a role in advocating for the rangatahi of Aotearoa, while working to support the workforce in creating and providing accessible and equitable services. I firmly believe that having youth lived experience feeding into policy and governance spaces is essential to service improvement. It will lead to better outcomes for our young people, which is my ultimate goal – to use my lived experience to make the journey easier for those who will travel it after me.”