Curtis Tohiariki

Curtis is a leader of people, values and social endeavours. His professional life has crossed several career paths, but he has always maintained a passion for growing and learning from the people around him. He embraces change and diversity, and has used his experience in government service to shape his ability to adapt quickly, think creatively and thrive in a team environment. He is our esteemed MC.

C&V Minister Louise Upston

Louise Upston is the Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector, Minister for Social Development and Employment, and Minister for Child Poverty Reduction. She has served as the MP for Taupō since the 2008 election.

Louise held a number of Ministerial roles in the Fifth National Government, including the portfolios of Corrections, Education, Land Information, Local Government, Women, and Tertiary Education Skills and Employment.  She also served as Government Chief Whip.

Dr Paul Spoonley 

A New Zealand sociologist and emeritus professor at Massey University where his specialist area is social change and demography and how this impacts policy decisions at the political level. Spoonley has led numerous externally funded research programmes, written or edited twenty-seven books and is a regular commentator in the news media. Back by popular demand after presenting at our 2023 Volunteering Leadership Hui.