I was 5 1/2 years old when the girl next door took me along to Girls’ Brigade, and so began an exciting journey through all the age groups. When I first started I was a GLB cadet with a red sash and a beret with a tassel. I was so proud of my first uniform. By the time I was a Pioneer we had become Girls’ Brigade and I was so excited by all the opportunities that were opening up for me - leadership, Duke of Edinburgh, Queen’s Award, camps and Fonomarae.

I was commissioned at 18 and stayed on at 2nd Manurewa company for another 27 years. After a few years I became the Captain and took on Area and National roles as well. Meeting girls and women from GB overseas helped me to appreciate the connections that come as part of a worldwide organisation. After a break away from GB because we moved to another city, I have now been back in GB for 4 years, this time as Captain of 1st Kamo Company in Whangarei.

Outside of GB I am a trained teacher, working for the University of Auckland. In my role as a facilitator, I work with teachers in schools in Auckland and Northland to provide professional development in the development of literacy programmes.

As a member of the GB National Board I am keen to see girls thrive and reach their potential in a nurturing, stable, faith-filled programme. I am keen for girls and leaders to have similar opportunities and opportunities to grow as I have experiences and a girl and a leader in GB. I am excited to be part of a team that will help our movement to grow and thrive into the future.