Being from a teaching background, I'm passionate about empowering people to be in charge of their own destiny, make their own choices and lead their own lives. Neighbourhood Support embodies this philosophy by supporting neighbours to connect and be stronger together. It is my privilege to become Chair of TSNS, helping the organisation move forward into a bright strategic future.

I have worked as Marlborough Coordinator for English Language Partners, Top of the South Neighbourhood Support and for Marlborough District Council as Recovery Navigator after the storms of winter 2021 and 2022. 
I understand how important it is for people to feel in charge of their own decisions. I currently work for Red Cross as Pathways to Employment manager, supporting former refugees into employment.

I have lived in Marlborough since 2010 and love the Top of the South as a region. Each community is unique in its identity and Neighbourhood Support's flexibility in being able to support different communities is its strength.

Katy's qualifications and career in sustainable development and environmental science showed her the importance of strong communities.

She remains passionate about ensuring we recognise and value the important role neighbours play in providing connections that build community.

Katy has lived in Nelson for over 20 years, and in that time, she has volunteered on several nott-for-profit boards including as chairperson of Adult Learning Support. She has worked at Volunteer Nelson and the Nelson Environment Centre.

Her management experience includes three years leading Neighbourhood Support Nelson and then through the formation of Top of the South Neighbourhood Support. 

Geoff lives in a new build in Mapua and is enjoying the landscaping challenges. Civil Defence courses have provided the experience necessary to handle challenges offered in adverse weather or after an earthquake. He knows that if something bad does happen, he and his neighbours will probably be the first responders offering to help those around him. 

Geoff's long career in insurance taught him how important it is to be prepared for the unexpected. 

He has worked for and volunteered at a number of not-for-profit organisations, including as the Executive Officer of Cycling NZ/BikeNZ Inc. He serves the community as a Justice of the Peace and is a former member of the Motueka District Neighbourhood Support Society. 

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Jo moved to New Zealand from the UK 20 years ago. After five years in Christchurch, she and her partner have spent the rest of their time in Marlborough. Most of that has been in the Wairau Valley on SH63 which was the main alternate route after the Kaikoura quake and the more recent flood events. The community pulls together and looks out for each other.
Jo is an experienced health and safety professional, used to assessing risk and planning for different scenarios. She has also worked as a Regulator, gaining valuable experience of interpreting legislative requirements.
Jo is looking forward to supporting Top of the South Neighbourhood in their work.