Jay whakapapa Te Auporui in the far north but grew up in Whitianga in the Coromandel Peninsula. Their dream was to teach outdoor education in high schools, but after some time teaching, Jay realised their passion was taking young people on adventures in the outdoors, supporting them to learn how they can push themselves to overcome challenges as they navigate life.
Jay supports a range of rangatahi, from those receiving the benefit and building work-readiness skills, through to young people involved in the corrections system, whether in the community or at the Christchurch Men’s Prison. They are big on advocacy and supporting anyone trying to navigate the systems out there.
Jay is super relaxed, loves a bit of banter, and brings both challenge and support to the work. Outside of work, they are an average surfer, fast on a bike, and dabble in Aussie rules. Jay has three beautiful kids who enjoy getting outside, riding their bikes and hanging out at the beach.