Kelly strongly believes a leader’s role is to create safe, vibrant and collaborative environments where kaimahi can excel in their work for our communities. Kelly has worked in the social service sector since 1994, and along the way has studied youth work, training & development and Tikanga Māori. A lifelong learner, he gained his MBA in 2021. Kelly is married with two adult children and two grandchildren.
Roxana Taurima
Kaiwhakahaere Rauemi / Chief Operations Officer
Roxana Taurima
Kaiwhakahaere Rauemi / Chief Operations Officer
Roxana is Chief Operations Officer with expertise in family therapy, behavioural support, and pastoral care. Holding a Bachelor of Counselling, she is committed to strengthening whānau and community wellbeing. Originally from Chile, she has lived in Aotearoa for 30 years and shares her life with her husband and two children.
Zabeen Begum
Kaitiaki Putea / Financial Controller
Zabeen Begum
Kaitiaki Putea / Financial Controller
Zabeen has nine years’ nonprofit experience, leading organisational strategy with financial expertise. She also has nine years in the corporate sector, bringing broad knowledge of finance and compliance. Zabeen lives in Te Kauwhata with her husband and two children and is passionate about making a difference in the community.
Stephen Cairns
Kaiwhakahaere Ahurea / Human Resources Manager
Stephen Cairns
Kaiwhakahaere Ahurea / Human Resources Manager
Stephen has 15+ years in Human Resources across diverse sectors including NGOs, iwi, manufacturing, FMCG, health, and community. He holds a Bachelor of Business Studies and is focused on people and culture, driving outcomes for rangatahi. Of Cook Island (Arorangi) descent, Stephen enjoys time with his two dogs outside work.
Wharewera Koopu
Mana Whakahaere / Cultural Leader
Wharewera Koopu
Mana Whakahaere / Cultural Leader
Wharewera descends from Mataatua tribes Te Whānau-ā-Apanui and Ngāti Awa. Raised in a large teaching family, he is committed to Te Ao Māori values taught by his grandparents. He holds an Education degree and qualifications in Te Reo Māori and social work, with experience in teaching, social work, tikanga Māori, and mental health, leading with deep cultural knowledge.
Tessa Madden
Executive Assistant to the CEO / Ringa Āwhina a Kaiwhakahaere
Tessa Madden
Executive Assistant to the CEO / Ringa Āwhina a Kaiwhakahaere
Tessa is Executive Assistant to the CEO, providing high-level support with professionalism and cultural awareness. She holds a Bachelor of Health Science (First Class Honours) in Psychology. Of Rotuman (Motusa District) and English descent, Tessa is passionate about uplifting rangatahi and whānau through compassion, inclusion, and purposeful action.
Frances Russell
Kaiwhakahaere Haumanu / Clinical Manager
Frances Russell
Kaiwhakahaere Haumanu / Clinical Manager
Frances is a New Zealand-registered Occupational Therapist with experience in mental health and project management. She is dedicated to Te Tiriti-centred practice and values well-defined systems for great service delivery. Frances is married with four children and was born and raised in Tāmaki Makaurau.
Chris Curry
Kaiwhakahaere Hōtaka / Programme Manager
Chris Curry
Kaiwhakahaere Hōtaka / Programme Manager
Chris has 16+ years in youth work across Youth Justice and community programmes. Of Ngāpuhi and Ngāhengahe descent, he leads with integrity, respect, and communication. Chris is committed to supporting vulnerable rangatahi and serves his community through Elim Manurewa Church. He is a husband and father of four.
Cassanna Uilavai
Kaiwhakahaere Hōtaka / Programme Manager
Cassanna Uilavai
Kaiwhakahaere Hōtaka / Programme Manager
Cassanna has eight years with Reconnect, with experience in care and protection, youth justice, family therapy, and clinical work. She holds a Diploma in Education and a Bachelor’s in Applied Social Science (Counselling). Of Māori (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Porou) and Samoan descent, she is passionate about empowering rangatahi and whānau.
Jacob Paulo
Kaiwhakahaere Hōtaka / Programme Manager
Jacob Paulo
Kaiwhakahaere Hōtaka / Programme Manager
Jacob, a proud Ōtāhuhu native, values service and respect in youth development. Experienced in residential youth care, he has led teams in Youth Justice and Care & Protection. He also has a background in logistics and serves his community as a sports coach and volunteer, fostering safe, team-focused environments.
Vili Lolohea
Kaiwhakahaere Hōtaka / Programme Manager
Vili Lolohea
Kaiwhakahaere Hōtaka / Programme Manager
Vili has six years at Reconnect, with extensive experience in Care & Protection and Youth Justice. Of Tongan descent, he leads with respect, honesty, and family values. A programme manager, Vili brings youth work, mentoring, family therapy, and social work skills. He lives with his Samoan partner and their two children.