Simone is of Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa decent. She grew up in Porirua, lives and works there, and loves to be involved in her local community.

One of Simone’s greatest passions is working with rangatahi, and supporting their development, particularly through physical activity and sport. This began with 6 years at Outward Bound NZ, followed by establishing youth development focused boxing programme for girls and young wāhine and running Shift – a young women’s wellbeing programme, in Porirua. Now, Simone is the Director of Grassroots at Olé Football Academy.

Simone is also completing a Bachelor of Arts at Victoria University, majoring in Education, Gender & Sexuality Studies, with some extra study in te reo Māori.

With a passion for social issues and gender equity, Simone is also an ambassador for White Ribbon New Zealand.

Simone sees being part of the Wellington Community Fund Board as a real privilege. She is excited by the opportunity to help communities thrive, and hopes she will bring a unique perspective to the Trust.