There have been a couple of personnel changes for Blind Sport NZ (BSNZ) with Casey heading on paternity leave for 12 months. Helen Johnson has taken over Casey’s role of General Manager for just over 3 weeks and settling in, and also Jemma Drake, our Community & Programmes Lead who started with the team this week.
Helen’s background has been in the sport sector, working in High Performance with Paralympics New Zealand a number of years ago, having worked at the International Paralympic Committee as the IPC Athletics Sport Manager and also doing some consultancy work with NSO's before having a family and stepping out of the sector. Helen returns with a renewed energy and looking to build on existing partnerships BSNZ has as well as forge new opportunities in the months ahead.
“While there is plenty to get my head around, I can see huge potential to grow the organisation and have a great year. I look forward to meeting you, working with you or having a conversation with you in the coming months.”
Jemma Drake joins us in a newly created role for BSNZ of Community and Programmes Lead. Jemma will be focused on promoting, developing and supporting key programmes, leading upskilling workshops, connecting the community with local clubs and opportunities, and the Accessible Sport Kits. Hailing originally from the UK, Jemma has always had a passion for sport and has been a long standing advocate for sport and inclusion. She has a wealth of knowledge and experience spanning over 14 years in leading sport programmes, event management, volunteering and from her previous role with Special Olympics New Zealand.
“I’m so excited to take on this new role, and provide more quality and sustainable opportunities for the Blind Sport NZ community. I look forward to forming new relationships with everyone and hope to see you at an event of programme in the near future!
To reach Helen or Jemma please contact us on:
helen@blindsport.kiwi jemma@blindsport.kiwi
022 528 8162 022 599 3961