Centre Manager

Michelle Eastwood is an accomplished people manager with extensive management experience running her own businesses. With a background as a caregiver and a parent of a child with complex needs, she passionately advocates for those without a voice, ensuring they receive respect and dignity. Michelle brings expertise in disabilities, including epilepsy, and cherishes her family along with her love of flowers as a trained florist.

Administration Manager

Kissie is an experienced manager and registered nurse in her home country and is currently gaining accreditation in New Zealand. Since joining New Dawn in 2014, she has risen from volunteer to centre manager on secondment, supported by Level 7 Healthcare Management credentials and updated first aid training. Her compassionate approach, rooted in respect and dignity, tailors support for individuals with complex needs. Outside work, she loves travelling across Aotearoa.

Service Manager

Deepika is a dedicated Service Manager with four years’ experience supporting people with intellectual needs. Holding a Certificate in Health and Well-being (Level 4) and a te reo Māori Level 3 certificate, she is known for her reliability, compassion, and respectful approach to care. Inspired by her physically challenged aunt, Deepika is ambitious, constantly seeking new challenges and growth in her role.

Youth Group Team Lead

Girard Gestopa is the Youth Group Team Lead with 11 years of experience in advocating for the disabled community. He holds a Level 3 qualification and a First Aid certificate. His approach to care is defined by respect, dignity, and compassion, ensuring every voice is heard and valued. Girard is dedicated to empowering individuals through strong advocacy and leadership.

Adult Group Team Lead

Alison is an Adult Team Lead at New Dawn, holding qualifications in Health and Well-being Disability Support (Level 4) and a current first aid certificate. Inspired by caring for her brother with Down syndrome and her family, she brings empathy and insight to her role. A dedicated fire warden and animal lover, Alison enjoys walking her new dog along North Shore’s beaches, which keep her fit and happy.

Programme Facilitator

Rachel  is a compassionate Disability Programme Facilitator with a range of qualifications, including a Level 4 Health & Wellbeing certificate and an Early Childhood Education certificate. With early childhood education experience in Korea and working as a Personal Carer in New Zealand since 2015, she brings patience, fun, and respect to care. Fluent in Korean, she assists with translation and loves baking, gardening, and outdoor walks.

Programme Facilitator

Sarita Bk is a dedicated Disability Care Facilitator with a Diploma in Disability and Mental Health Level 5. With over nine years of experience, including nursing back home and 4.5 years as a caregiver in New Zealand, she embraces an empathetic approach that values dignity and empowerment. Sarita continuously strives to create a supportive environment.

Programme Facilitator

Drexel is a dedicated Disability Program Facilitator with a diverse background. He holds three national caregiving certifications, completed comprehensive first aid training with Red Cross NZ, and has almost eight years’ hospitality experience, notably at Abu Dhabi’s Shangri-La Hotel. Inspired by a newfound opportunity in healthcare, Drexel’s compassionate approach treats every client like family. He also enjoys riding motorcycles for a sense of freedom.

Programme Facilitator

Remelyn Miranda-Elenzano is a compassionate Disability Facilitator at New Dawn. With a BSc in Clinical Psychology and a NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 4 – Disability Support), she specialises in promoting independence and emotional well-being for individuals with complex needs. Remelyn’s approach is centred on empathy, dignity, and respect. A fan of Hello Kitty and world travel, she loves exploring new cultures and culinary adventures.