Developed in 2008, Nest Consulting provides services dedicated to health and wellbeing.
Nest Consulting provides Puberty, Menstrual, Sexuality, Sexual Violence Prevention, Respectful Relationship (SRR), Anti-Bullying, Body Image/Self Esteem & Cyber Safety/Media Manners education programmes throughout schools in New Zealand. Nest Consulting frequently contract with organisations and agencies to provide services from consultation to delivery on a variety of health and wellbeing related topics. Nest Consulting provide Community and Corporate Health & Wellbeing programmes (‘Check in Check Up’ & ‘The M Word – Managing Menopause’).
Our Team is a diverse group of qualified, trauma informed educators and facilitators who are supported to enhance their skills through continuous professional development opportunities, peer review and reflective practice. All have internal and external Supervisors. Nest also has a specialised team who work with those who have additional learning needs, disability, vision or hearing issues. Nest’s Team speak a variety of languages including Te Reo and all work through the lens of honoring Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Our vision is ‘To enhance awareness, appreciation & knowledge of our selves, achieving empowerment, informed choices & acceptance through education, understanding & support’.
our team
ROBYN FAUSETT RGN CEO Advisor and writer of programmes
Robyn was born in Helensville, NZ and is a UK trained nurse (University College London Hospital). Nest came about through Robyn's desire to address health, social & environmental issues in the community through the provision…
ROBYN FAUSETT RGN CEO Advisor and writer of programmes
Robyn was born in Helensville, NZ and is a UK trained nurse (University College London Hospital). Nest came about through Robyn's desire to address health, social & environmental issues in the community through the provision of resources, equitable access to services and researched quality education.
Robyn, upon returning to New Zealand in 1999 with her whanau, has utilised her expertise in health, research & programme writing; upgrading the diabetes service at an Auckland Hospital, coordinating a donor egg & surrogacy programme across three clinics based at an Auckland Fertility Unit and assisting in the setting up of a ‘work ready’ service for beneficiaries; creating assessment tools, interviewing clients and providing reports with stepped recommendations and community supports for case managers (MSD).
Robyn was also inspired to create several in-school health and well-being, puberty, menstrual education, sexuality, relationships, sexual violence prevention, anti-bullying, body image and cyber safety education programmes for youth. These programmes are research based utilising the WHO recognised Hauora approach and integrate holistic & trauma informed age appropriate information for a whole sense of valuing self, others and our environment. Launched in 2010, these popular programmes are now delivered by Nest Consulting’s Educators & Facilitators NZ wide.
Robyn maintains her nursing practising certificate and consults regularly on projects; most recently contracted by MoE to collect and report the student voice on the topic of menstruation education & the accessibility of period products. In addition she recently successfully researched and formatted a proposal to manage a mother and baby respite and community support service before overseeing its completion.
Robyn is also a speaker, regularly providing events for parents about tweens and teens topics, to health care providers on the subject of fertility and to communities and corporates on various topic of women's health and menopause.
In addition, Robyn has been instrumental as a Board member within various community focussed charities and organisations (most recently for the 'Healing Through Arts Trust' Board and the 'WALSH Trust' Board (supporting people with mental health, social, illness or disability challenges).
She is accredited as a 'Nourish' body image/media awareness programme facilitator through what was formerly EDEN (Eating Disorders Education Network), with Jane Bennet's 'Celebration Day for Girls' and 'Days for Girls' as a period education facilitator and with Natural Fertility NZ as an educator and as a clinical trainer. Robyn also works within the disability sector providing specific sexuality and healthy relationship education to young people and their whanau.
Robyn is unbiased in her approach and is passionate about all people having equal and safe access to information & services facilitating empowerment and informed choices.
CHAR Administrator, PA, Creative Designer
Char is our all round office ninja ensuring Nest runs smoothly. In charge of general administration, communication & coordination in addition to contributing to creative design. She is also Nest's Junior Programmes Team Leader and…
CHAR Administrator, PA, Creative Designer
Char is our all round office ninja ensuring Nest runs smoothly. In charge of general administration, communication & coordination in addition to contributing to creative design. She is also Nest's Junior Programmes Team Leader and Trainer.
Char was born in Zimbabwe and raised in South Africa, emigrating to New Zealand in 2009. Char has a degree in Educational Psychology and many years working in an administration role. She and her partner are living in Auckland raising 2 teenagers and 1 younger child.
GRAYSON High School Programmes Manager
BSc (Biotech)
Grayson grew up in the mighty Te Tai Tokerau, Northland. After taking a gap year after high school to pursue an international hockey contract with the USA, he’s now in his 3rd and final year…
GRAYSON High School Programmes Manager
BSc (Biotech)
Grayson grew up in the mighty Te Tai Tokerau, Northland. After taking a gap year after high school to pursue an international hockey contract with the USA, he’s now in his 3rd and final year of his bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology at the University of Auckland, with Post-Graduate studies to come! Grayson is the team Manager for the 'Mates & Dates' facilitators working with Yr 9 -13 students. Grayson is also a facilitator & a member of our speciality team working with those who have additional needs.
Grayson feels a lot of young people’s learning about themselves and social interaction takes place whilst at school. He understands self-identity and Hauora (Health) is a subject that can often be confused by misinformation and false realities. Grayson is passionate about supplying the tools young people need and creating a safe space available for them to use those tools, to be able to keep themselves, and others safe. When Grayson isn’t studying, working or training at the hockey pitch, he can be found out in the garden or brewing his “World famous in Epsom” Kombucha!CHAR Primary/Intermediate School Programmes Team Leader
BA (EdPsych)
Char was born in Zimbabwe and raised in South Africa, emigrating to New Zealand in 2009. Char has a degree in Educational Psychology and has vast experience working with children including those with high health…
CHAR Primary/Intermediate School Programmes Team Leader
BA (EdPsych)
Char was born in Zimbabwe and raised in South Africa, emigrating to New Zealand in 2009. Char has a degree in Educational Psychology and has vast experience working with children including those with high health & special needs.
Char's passion is empowering young minds whilst seeing young people with a holistic view. Char is Nest's Junior Programmes Team Leader and Trainer (alongside this she is our Administrator, PA and Creative Designer). She and her partner are living in Auckland and raising 2 teenagers and 1 younger child. Char works across all Nest programmes; with our Yr 5-8 students through Nest's Puberty & Body Image programmes and with our yr 9-13 students as one of Nest’s High School facilitators.
MOLLY Volunteer & Project Contractor
BA (Anthro & Soc)
Molly was born in London, raised in Auckland and currently resides in Wellington where she works as an administrator supporting the Mental Health and Addiction directorate of the Ministry of Health. Molly has been involved…
MOLLY Volunteer & Project Contractor
BA (Anthro & Soc)
Molly was born in London, raised in Auckland and currently resides in Wellington where she works as an administrator supporting the Mental Health and Addiction directorate of the Ministry of Health. Molly has been involved with Nest's social initiative projects for many years, and these days assists and volunteers by representing the student voice, constructing PowerPoints and providing initiatives & feedback.
Molly is passionate about social change and justice and is looking to continue to be engaged in the field of health and wellbeing. She is also currently contributing to the researching and writing of a commissioned book for parenting teens.
TRISH Educator
Diploma in Nursing
Trish was born in Holland, emigrating to New Zealand in 1981 where she was raised from her early pre teens in Auckland. In addition to her Diploma in Nursing Trish has a Certificate in Womens…
TRISH Educator
Diploma in Nursing
Trish was born in Holland, emigrating to New Zealand in 1981 where she was raised from her early pre teens in Auckland. In addition to her Diploma in Nursing Trish has a Certificate in Womens Health and Fitness Training, is a Therapeutic Massage Therapist, a Reiki Practitioner and is a business owner. Trish works with our younger students - Yr 5 - Yr 8 - through our Puberty & Body Image programmes.
After completing her Nursing Diploma Trish worked within womens health and paediatrics for over 20 years. Upon raising her family of 3 children she decided to start her own business working with new parents and their newborns.
Trish is also very interested in natural health and holistic wellbeing and is always extending her knowledge through trainings and seminars.
The love of the outdoors and many adventures with family gives her the balance between work commitments and family life.
You will find Trish on the river fly fishing when she can.
ALANA Educator
BA (Media Studies & Psychology)
Alana was born in Scotland and spent her childhood in Vancouver before moving to New Zealand at the age of 11. She recently completed her degree from the University of Auckland majoring in Media Studies…
ALANA Educator
BA (Media Studies & Psychology)
Alana was born in Scotland and spent her childhood in Vancouver before moving to New Zealand at the age of 11. She recently completed her degree from the University of Auckland majoring in Media Studies and Psychology and is now studying a Post Graduate Diploma in Psychotherapy. Alana also works as a freelance feature writer and journalist. Alana works across all Nest programmes; with our Yr 5-8 students through Nest's Puberty & Body Image programmes and with our yr 9-13 students as one of Nest’s High School facilitators.
Alana loves working with a wide range of individuals including young people, She is interested in the realm of health promotion and promoting wellbeing, incorporating topics such as harm reduction, psychology and philosophy, sexuality, and environmentalism. Alana's hobbies include taking long evening walks in Grey Lynn park, op shopping around the Auckland suburbs, spending time with animals and exploring beaches around New Zealand.
MEGAN Educator
Megan was born in Wellington and currently lives in Auckland with her partner and five of their six children, three of whom are teenagers and two who are in primary school. Megan is an animal…
MEGAN Educator
Megan was born in Wellington and currently lives in Auckland with her partner and five of their six children, three of whom are teenagers and two who are in primary school. Megan is an animal lover and has one dog, four rats, six chickens, two goats, and four sheep. Megan loves working with children and is passionate about helping others learn to love and understand their bodies. Megan works with our younger students - Yr 5 - Yr 8 - through Nest's Puberty & Body Image programmes.
Megan understands that every child comes with their own story, background, and individual needs. She believes a holistic approach is really important to make everyone feel included and at ease. Megan’s favourite things to do with her family are to go camping and play board games.
NAFEESA Educator
Nafeesa was born and raised in New Zealand and has Fijian Indian and Pakistani heritage. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Psychology at the University of Auckland. Nafeesa is passionate about providing children with…
NAFEESA Educator
Nafeesa was born and raised in New Zealand and has Fijian Indian and Pakistani heritage. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Psychology at the University of Auckland. Nafeesa is passionate about providing children with information that empowers them and aims to provide them with the fuel they need to facilitate positive change in the world. Nafeesa works with our younger students - Yr 5 - Yr 8 - through Nest's Puberty & Body Image programmes.
Nafeesa thoroughly enjoys engaging with people and learning about the stories that people have to tell which makes her a great listener and she is always keen for a chat. She also enjoys documentaries on any and every topic and is always open to recommendations! Alongside this, Nafeesa loves delving into creative endeavours like songwriting and reading when she's not studying.
GEM Educator
Dip Pregnancy, Childbirth and Early Parenting Education
Gem was born in the Far North and now lives on the Hibiscus Coast with her husband and two of her three children. Gem is also a grandmother to two grandson’s Jagger and Wolfe who…
GEM Educator
Dip Pregnancy, Childbirth and Early Parenting Education
Gem was born in the Far North and now lives on the Hibiscus Coast with her husband and two of her three children. Gem is also a grandmother to two grandson’s Jagger and Wolfe who help to keep her on her toes. Gem has a background in finance, travel and homebased childcare and has Diploma in Pregnancy, Childbirth and Early Parenting Education. Gem works with our younger students - Yr 5 - Yr 8 - through Nest's Puberty & Body Image programmes.
Aside from helping her husband run an electrical business, Gem enjoys travelling, walking her dog, camping and catching up with family and friends on regular basis.
KATHRYN Educator & Facilitator
Kathryn is a born and bred Aucklander who loves to travel, having enjoyed many overseas adventures and exploring her Dutch heritage. She completed her physiotherapy training in the early 1990s and later her post graduate…
KATHRYN Educator & Facilitator
Kathryn is a born and bred Aucklander who loves to travel, having enjoyed many overseas adventures and exploring her Dutch heritage. She completed her physiotherapy training in the early 1990s and later her post graduate diploma in Manipulative Physiotherapy and Acupuncture. She is currently enjoys being a Mum to two delightful boys and working as a massage therapist. Kathryn works across all Nest programmes; with our Yr 5-8 students through Nest's Puberty & Body Image programmes and with our yr 9-13 students as one of Nest’s High School facilitators.
Kathryn has always been fascinated in understanding people and what makes them tick. She has been interested in supporting people in their journeys of awakening and empowerment since she was a teenager and over the years has led and co facilitated many workshops for women and girls. Kathryn is passionate about assisting especially young people to thrive and love who they are. Kathryn is topped up by being in nature, particularly tramping and adventures with her family and time out at the beach. Other interests include her mindfulness practice, jigsaw puzzles, and reading a great novel.
JETHRO Facilitator
BA (Theo) Dip (Bus)
Jethro was born and raised in Whangarei, New Zealand. He completed a Bachelor of Theology from Laidlaw College. Jethro has also completed a Graduate Diploma in Business, and is currently in the process of completing…
JETHRO Facilitator
BA (Theo) Dip (Bus)
Jethro was born and raised in Whangarei, New Zealand. He completed a Bachelor of Theology from Laidlaw College. Jethro has also completed a Graduate Diploma in Business, and is currently in the process of completing a Masters in Human Rights alongside a Masters in Theology. Jethro is one of Nest's 'Mates & Dates' facilitators working with Yr 9 -13. Jethro is also a member of our speciality team working with those who have additional needs.
Jethro has previously worked in Youth Services, specifically in the Youth Justice sector, in youth work, programme coordination, and management. Jethro is passionate about rangatahi and believes in equipping our rangatahi with the right tools and knowledge for them to create the best possible future for themselves, their whanau, and their community. Jethro lives in Auckland with his wife and their 4 year old son. He enjoys quality time with his whanau and friends.
TASHINA Facilitator
BA (Social Services)
Born in Auckland, Tashina grew up being the eldest of 6 girls who attended Epsom Girls Grammar School. She has recently graduated from the Bachelor of Social Services in Bi-Culturalism and is looking forward to…
TASHINA Facilitator
BA (Social Services)
Born in Auckland, Tashina grew up being the eldest of 6 girls who attended Epsom Girls Grammar School. She has recently graduated from the Bachelor of Social Services in Bi-Culturalism and is looking forward to working with young Tauira in Auckland and helping them strive for the best in life and in becoming the leaders of tomorrow. Tashina is one of Nest's 'Mates & Dates' facilitators working with Yr 9 -13 students.
Ko Taupiri te maunga Ko Waikato te awa Ko Tainui te waka Ko Waikato te iwi Ngati Mahuta te hapu Potatau te tangata Te Puea te marae Ko Tashina Whaanga ahau Nga mihi nui kia koutou Tena koutou, tena koutou, tena koutou katoa. Alongside Tasshina gathering qualifications she has been driving trucks for the last three years and enjoys the odd challenge when it comes to stereotypical gender roles. She encourages youth to aim high now and become the individuals they want to be to bring about Mauri Ora! “Ko te mutunga oranga, he timatanga kaha” (Winning starts with a strong beginning).
LAUREN Facilitator
Lauren was born and raised in a quaint little place sandwiched between Canada and Mexico, more affectionately known as New York (State). She is currently attending the University of Auckland, pursuing a Bachelor of Science…
LAUREN Facilitator
Lauren was born and raised in a quaint little place sandwiched between Canada and Mexico, more affectionately known as New York (State). She is currently attending the University of Auckland, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Lauren is one of Nest’s ‘Mates & Dates’ facilitators working with Yr 9-13 students. Lauren is also a member of our speciality team working with those who have additional needs.
After finishing high school, Lauren travelled and worked her way around Asia and the South Pacific for a few years. Within that time, she spent her three summers in what quickly became her favourite place, the Bay of Islands. Lauren feels privileged to be able to live in Aotearoa and facilitate conversations surrounding healthy relationships with young minds. She is passionate about equality and stands up for what she believes in; she firmly believes that there is never a bad day for social justice! Lauren is eager to provide a safe, warm, and open environment to discuss hard topics like mental wellbeing, relationships, consent, sex, and self-identity. She feels the importance to dispel harmful myths surrounding these topics, especially at an early age. When Lauren is not working or studying, she can be found at the beach, gallivanting around parks, or doing otherwise free spirited activities.
CALUM Facilitator
BSc (Physiology)
Calum has recently completed a Masters of Science in Physiology being a part of a lab investigating the role of diabetes in heart failure. He continues his role in the lab in addition to working…
CALUM Facilitator
BSc (Physiology)
Calum has recently completed a Masters of Science in Physiology being a part of a lab investigating the role of diabetes in heart failure. He continues his role in the lab in addition to working with Nest as one of our ‘Mates & Dates’ Facilitators working with Yr 9-13 students.
Calum is passionate about researching and understanding health issues, this transcends into a desire to help educate children and provide them with the knowledge to have healthy relationships and maintain positive mental health. Investing in his own wellbeing, Calum spends time bush walking, mountain biking and occasionally manages to catch a wave or two!
ALISTAIR Facilitator
Alistair is Kiwi-American born and was raised in the US. Throughout his schooling, Alistair worked as an actor in Madison and Chicago developing his career on stage and screen, and spent a summer in New…
ALISTAIR Facilitator
Alistair is Kiwi-American born and was raised in the US. Throughout his schooling, Alistair worked as an actor in Madison and Chicago developing his career on stage and screen, and spent a summer in New York for the Stella Adler Summer Conservatory. His experiences working with youth, as well putting himself into other peoples’ shoes as an actor, fostered in him a strong interest in the field of mental health. Alistair is one of Nest's Mates & Dates facilitators working with Yr 9 -13
Alistair's passion for working with young people began during a service trip in his hometown which consequently resulted in more trips to West Virginia, Romania and Peru where he taught music, tutored teens and hosted camp activities. Alistair enjoys using his acting background to help facilitate conversations through Mates and Dates, and is thankful that years of studying 'how to be someone else' have finally paid off! In his free time, Alistair enjoys making music, learning languages, dancing, tinkering with machines and collecting antiques.
DEAN Facilitator
Dean describes himself as a chill dude in his mid-twenties currently studying Psychology at Auckland University. His interests involve psychology (obviously), criminology and history - more specifically, war/military history. Dean is one of Nest's Mates…
DEAN Facilitator
Dean describes himself as a chill dude in his mid-twenties currently studying Psychology at Auckland University. His interests involve psychology (obviously), criminology and history - more specifically, war/military history. Dean is one of Nest's Mates & Dates facilitators working with Yr 9 -13
Dean states that 'working for Nest is an awesome experience. It feels good knowing that what we facilitate encourages positive growth in our youth, and our youth are so important - they're the future. Blessed and stoked to be here. Look out for my cheeky grin!'
CAMERON Facilitator
Cameron was born and raised in central Auckland. He is currently pursuing a conjoint programme, studying Health Science (Population Health) and Science (Psychology). His interests within these fields are social psychology, health inequities and the…
CAMERON Facilitator
Cameron was born and raised in central Auckland. He is currently pursuing a conjoint programme, studying Health Science (Population Health) and Science (Psychology). His interests within these fields are social psychology, health inequities and the experiences of individuals in health systems. Cameron is one of Nest’s “Mates & Dates’ facilitators working with Year 9-13 students.
Cameron is passionate about helping young people build the skills and confidence they need to enjoy safe and healthy relationships. He believes that giving young people the knowledge and power to do this will create a happier and healthier society and that sexual violence prevention presents the opportunity to make meaningful, long lasting change for present and future generations in Aotearoa. Cameron enjoys riding his bike to uni, trying new recipes and has recently taken up Brazillian Jiu Jitsu as a hobby.
SAM Facilitator
LLB & BA Performing Arts
Sam was born and raised in the beautiful city of Dunedin. She studied Law and Performing Arts at the University of Otago and moved to Auckland at the start of 2020. After a brief stint…
SAM Facilitator
LLB & BA Performing Arts
Sam was born and raised in the beautiful city of Dunedin. She studied Law and Performing Arts at the University of Otago and moved to Auckland at the start of 2020. After a brief stint as a lawyer, Sam is happy to have found work that she really enjoys at Nest Consulting, which she does alongside continuing to learn and develop as an artist. Sam is one of Nest's Mates & Dates facilitators working with Yr 9 -13.
Sam is excited to be helping young people develop skills that will empower them to have happier, healthier relationships. She believes that this work will help facilitate a cultural shift towards a kinder, more compassionate society in the future. In her spare time, she enjoys doing anything with friends, listening to music, dancing and reading.
PAUL Facilitator
Paul left Ireland 10 years ago to get to know Aotearoa New Zealand a little more. 10 years has flown by, and he says by meeting people and experiencing the unique culture of tangata whenua…
PAUL Facilitator
Paul left Ireland 10 years ago to get to know Aotearoa New Zealand a little more. 10 years has flown by, and he says by meeting people and experiencing the unique culture of tangata whenua he learnt a lot about himself too. Paul feels the depth and richness of te ao Maori and it’s significance in living a meaningful life comes with responsibility, where mana enhancing practice is key to regrowth. Paul has side-stepped a BA in Communication for this year to complete a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science, Specialising in Trauma and Violence.
Paul has worked with many youth and their families through residential care and holiday programmes for disabilities and complex needs. He managed a team and Whare in Christchurch for young men whom had full-time out-of-home support to help them deal with and overcome their harmful behaviour and move beyond the justice system to full lives. Paul has developed and coached skills in Trauma Informed Care. He sees everyone on a journey with challenges to embrace and lessons to learn, for better selves, families, and communities. Paul believes in early intervention as acceptance and persistence. On his days off Paul may be sea swimming (when there are no shark alerts), running, surfing badly or a doing a bit of yoga, all whilst believing his humour is hilarious.
SAMANTHA Facilitator
Samantha was born and raised in South Auckland where she attended the local schools. She is currently finishing her last semester studying Health Sciences (Population Health) at the University of Auckland. With an evolving passion…
SAMANTHA Facilitator
Samantha was born and raised in South Auckland where she attended the local schools. She is currently finishing her last semester studying Health Sciences (Population Health) at the University of Auckland. With an evolving passion for preventative measures regarding sexual violence, Samantha is looking forward to being a part of the positive growth amongst youth. Samantha is one of Nest's Mates & Dates facilitators working with Yr 9 - 13.
Samantha is thrilled to be supporting young people by creating safe spaces for young people to discuss healthy relationships and ask questions to further empower them to uplift themselves towards creating a brighter future for all. When Samantha is not working or studying; she can often be found cuddling her large rabbit “Sox”, venturing through bush walks, skateboarding, and chilling on her yoga mat.
GURLEEN Facilitator
Gurleen was born and raised in Tāmaki Makaurau and embraces both her Punjabi heritage along with her Kiwi upbringing. She is currently studying Bachelor of Arts with the majors of psychology and English. Gurleen is…
GURLEEN Facilitator
Gurleen was born and raised in Tāmaki Makaurau and embraces both her Punjabi heritage along with her Kiwi upbringing. She is currently studying Bachelor of Arts with the majors of psychology and English. Gurleen is one of Nest's Mates & Dates facilitators working with Yr 9-13.
Gurleen is excited to have discussions with young people, embrace their mana and empower them to engage in healthy relationships throughout their lives. She believes that educating people at a young age encourages life long healthy habits. Gurleen can often be found reading books with a cup of homemade chai, trying out new vegetarian recipes, practicing yoga or studying.
NANDINI Facilitator
BSc(Hons)- Psyc
Nandini was born in Botswana, Africa and currently resides in Tāmaki Makaurau where she is completing her Master of Science majoring in Psychology at Massey University. Nandini holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours in…
NANDINI Facilitator
BSc(Hons)- Psyc
Nandini was born in Botswana, Africa and currently resides in Tāmaki Makaurau where she is completing her Master of Science majoring in Psychology at Massey University. Nandini holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Psychology from the University of Otago and is one of Nest’s Mates & Dates’ facilitators working with Year 9-13 students.
In addition to her study Nandini is a trained Mental Health first aider and a trained Peer Mediator for conflict resolution. Nandini understands that our rangatahi face evolving challenges within our communities. Her goal to make a positive impact on Hauora in New Zealand to motivate positive change and to embrace diversity. In her spare time Nandini enjoys being with friends, family and heading to the beach for a swim!
CATHERINE Facilitator
Originally hailing from the Hawke's Bay, Catherine has recently returned to study a Bachelor of Applied Counselling through MIT. After 8 years in the film and television industry, her interest in psychology and desire to…
CATHERINE Facilitator
Originally hailing from the Hawke's Bay, Catherine has recently returned to study a Bachelor of Applied Counselling through MIT. After 8 years in the film and television industry, her interest in psychology and desire to give back to her community has seen her transition from telling stories to listening to them. Catherine is one of Nest's 'Mates & Dates' facilitators working with Years 9 - 13.
As the daughter of a secondary school teacher, Catherine has always been passionate about providing rangatahi with opportunities to learn, grow and challenge themselves. She believes creating a safe space for rangatahi to discuss issues around relationships, wellbeing and identity is integral to encouraging the development of healthy, resilient adults. Catherine loves spending time with family and friends, and rates time outdoors as the best way to recharge, enjoying camping, hiking and snowboarding.
CATHERINE Facilitator
Catherine was born and raised in Auckland’s West Coast. She is currently attending the University of Auckland, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Psychology. Catherine is one of Nest’s ‘Mates & Dates’ facilitators…
CATHERINE Facilitator
Catherine was born and raised in Auckland’s West Coast. She is currently attending the University of Auckland, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Psychology. Catherine is one of Nest’s ‘Mates & Dates’ facilitators working with Yr 9-13 students.
After spending her early twenties travelling, Catherine returned to Aotearoa ready for a new venture and settled into her undergraduate degree. Catherine believes in empowering young people with the knowledge they need to make safe, informed choices by facilitating open dialogue around gender, sexuality, sex, and relationships. She feels that positive relationships are essential to wellbeing, and we have a duty of care to our youth community to familiarize them with the practice of cultivating meaningful connection. When Catherine is not working or studying, you will find her on her paddleboard, crafting up a storm, or rallying her live-in besties for a game of monopoly deal.
SAMMI Facilitator
More info to come :)
SAMMI Facilitator
More info to come :)
VEL Facilitator
Vel is 30-something, Ukrainian-born and kiwi-raised, with a passion for creative writing, taking deep dives into history rabbit holes, and collecting and using twin lens reflex cameras from the 40s. He's currently working towards a…
VEL Facilitator
Vel is 30-something, Ukrainian-born and kiwi-raised, with a passion for creative writing, taking deep dives into history rabbit holes, and collecting and using twin lens reflex cameras from the 40s. He's currently working towards a BSC in Counselling at AUT, and publishing short stories alongside. He's pretty sure his ADHD is a super power, and is always excited to share that well-kept secret with new hero recruits. Vel is one of Nest’s Mates & Dates facilitators working with Yr 9-13.
Vel has always been passionate about promoting healthy, safe, and accessible sex and mental health education, and this is his first time facilitating such a programme.
DAN Facilitator
BA (PSYCH) BSc(Hons) (PSYCH)
Dan comes from a Kiwi-Australian family In the mighty Waikato. After returning from a gap-year in America, Dan completed an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Criminology at The University of Auckland. Using this knowledge, he…
DAN Facilitator
BA (PSYCH) BSc(Hons) (PSYCH)
Dan comes from a Kiwi-Australian family In the mighty Waikato. After returning from a gap-year in America, Dan completed an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Criminology at The University of Auckland. Using this knowledge, he became a Police Officer in Counties Manukau to keep streets and homes safer. His desire for more performance based police training saw him return to university to obtain his Masters in Psychology which he is currently studying towards. Dan has also been a youth mentor since 2015 and finds that young people often teach him more about himself as he guides them through adolescence. Dan is one of Nest’s 'Mates & Dates’ facilitators working with Year 9-13 students.
Dan is keen to equip young people with the tools needed for healthy and thriving relationships in an effort to prevent the family harm he has witnessed as a Police Officer. Dan is also passionate about affirming peoples gender and sexual identities. You may have seen Dan appear on Shortland Street or Netflix which he does during his free time. Otherwise you will catch him free diving or shredding snow on the mountains.
ANIVA Facilitator
BA Psyc & Politics
Aniva is a 25-year-old who has just finished a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Psychology and Politics and is continuing into her honors at Massey University. She is the current president of her local Pasifika…
ANIVA Facilitator
BA Psyc & Politics
Aniva is a 25-year-old who has just finished a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Psychology and Politics and is continuing into her honors at Massey University. She is the current president of her local Pasifika Student Association and volunteers in the space of student politics often. Aniva is Samoan and European and grew up in West Auckland where she first found her passion for youth and Pasifika peoples. Aniva is one of Nest’s ‘Mates & Dates’ facilitators working with Yr 9-13 students.
Aniva is passionate about youth having access to the information they need to ensure safety and remain healthy. She aspires to continue down the road of clinical psychology working with youth to promote mental health/wealth and healthy relationships. In her spare time, you can find Aniva spending time with friends and whanau, watering her house plants, or playing with the kittens she fosters.
Could this be you??
Nest are always on the look out for excellent Educators & Facilitators to join our Team. Email us if you are interested.