OUR TEAM
Just as it takes a village to raise a child, realising our kaupapa is a collective effort. Our team of programme developers, facilitators, and specialists work together to deliver impactful training and ensure our organisation remains sustainable — all in service of a future where every child in Aotearoa can thrive.
Business Development
Emma Bolwell
Executive Director
Believing that every child deserves the tools to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience, Emma is committed to strengthening outcomes for tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau.
With over 15 years’ experience across government, NGO, research, and education, Emma brings strengths in strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement, funding strategy, and programme innovation to support the growth and impact of Jade’s practical, evidence-based programmes that help adults, whānau, and communities support tamariki to thrive.
Away from work, Emma enjoys camping, cooking, dragon boating, and keeping up with her two young children.
Emmy Nicol
Operations Manager
A passionate advocate for building resilient, connected communities, Emmy brings a creative, people-centred approach alongside a diverse skillset that includes systems design thinking, community building, relationship management, and facilitation.
As a mother to two young children, Emmy believes that equipping tamariki early with strong emotional literacy skills creates a solid foundation that will support them into adulthood.
In her spare time, Emmy enjoys making kai — a conduit for deepening her connections with friends and whānau here in Aotearoa and in her homeland of Australia.
Stella Pennell
Programme Development & Facilitation Lead
Passionate about the transformative power of education, Stella develops engaging, experiential learning that helps people and communities thrive.
With a background in tertiary teaching, programme design, and a PhD in sociology, she brings a unique perspective shaped by her experience as a former international sportswoman.
As a mum, step-mum, and proud ‘Omie’ to five grandchildren, Stella believes every child deserves to grow up safe, valued, and free from harm.
Outside work, she is happiest near the ocean — spearfishing, boating, camping, or simply enjoying life by the sea.
Majka Kaiser
Digital Communications Specialist
With 15 years’ experience in publishing, communications, and marketing, Majka draws on her digital storytelling skills and support of domestic violence survivors to share the kaupapa for a safer Aotearoa where children are protected, supported, and nurtured.
In addition to creating compelling digital communications, Majka applies her editing expertise to optimise Jade’s training programmes for e-learning delivery.
In her spare time, Majka enjoys communing with nature, volunteering with rescue dogs, mentoring at-risk youth, and working towards a Master of Counselling.
Matt Wall
Finance Manager
As a registered Chartered Accountant, Matt brings a wealth of experience in commerce, auditing, and accounting from his work both in New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
He now uses his financial expertise to support charities across Aotearoa through his own accounting, finance, and advisory business.
A keen sports fan, you’ll find Matt following any kind of sport when he’s not buried in spreadsheets — or spending quality time with his young family.
Training and Facilitation
Megan Gallagher
Megan is a passionate teacher, health educator, coach, presenter, and writer who has dedicated much of her career to supporting learners and educators in primary and secondary schools.
With a Master of Education specialising in teacher wellbeing, she spent several years with Life Education delivering health and wellbeing programmes across the motu, eventually moving into the role of National Education Manager.
Today, Megan brings her wealth of experience to Jade Speaks Up as a facilitator and also runs her own coaching consultancy, Ignite Your Spark.
Connect
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