Team changes

NIcky Owers, Jacqui Eyley, Maria Gorham

This month we have a lot of changes with two new team members joining us and two stepping down.

Nicky Owers joins us as our new Connector. This one-day-a-week role is focused on developing relationships with local employers who are interested in participating in our Work Experience (WE) programme. Our aim is to expand our WE programme to provide external placements to give our WE volunteers real world experience and potential employment opportunities. Nicky has a broad background in relationship management that lend her the skills needed for connecting up people and opportunities, and she also volunteers as a stylist at the Hutt hub.

Maria Gorham is our new Course Coordinator based at 51 Dudley Street in the Hutt. She is looking after our new Get Ready for Work course, coordinating work experience placements and liaising with MSD centres. Maria has a background in learning and development and is also a yoga teacher and studio owner. She is passionate about creating inclusive and supportive spaces where people can grow and thrive.

Anna Kenna, our Grants Officer, is stepping down to focus on her writing. Anna is a journalist and writer who writes books "for kids who care about what’s happening in the world and for parents interested in raising good global citizens, who are tolerant and compassionate.” We wish her the very best of luck.

Jacqui Eyley, our Executive Manager, is also leaving after nearly four years with the organisation. Jacqui has overseen the move of both hubs to central locations, the establishment of our two Dressed recycled boutiques, our all-gender Yes for Success brand and website, and our work experience and career coaching programmes. She has been inspired by the people she has met at YFS to make changes in her own life and is heading to Australia to work on a yacht in the Whitsundays. She says, 'Life is short, you have to pursue your goals and grab opportunities when they present themselves, even if they are scary!'