About Us

Jenny has over 20 years of senior leadership experience in the charitable sector, including two years as CEO of a South Auckland charity walking alongside vulnerable families, and seven years as a Strategy, Marketing and Fundraising Consultant.

Jenny has advocated for change on critical issues at government and community levels and is a passionate believer in the power of Upside’s relationship-focussed model to support rangatahi at a vital time in their lives.

Daryl is from the beautiful isles of Fiji. He is a trained youth worker with over eight years of experience working with young people all over Auckland. Daryl works as Upside's partnership manager working with mentoring organisations outside of Auckland. He also has ninja-like IT skills that keep our systems moving along.

Kylie brings two decades of expertise in project management, with a notable 12 years dedicated to various fundraising roles within the non-profit sector. Her current role at Upside highlights her passion for fostering meaningful connections with donors, funders, and businesses, aiming to drive significant, positive change in the lives of young people. When she's not making a difference professionally, Kylie finds relaxation through DIY projects and outdoor adventures with her family.

For more than three decades, Donald has dedicated his career to fostering growth and resilience in children and youth across various settings. His journey has spanned roles as a youth and children's program leader, an outdoor instructor, and an outdoor education teacher, evolving more recently into developing and directing engaging programs for children and their families. Originally from Taranaki, Donald has woven his life into the fabric of Tamaki Makaurau over the past 20 years, embracing it as his home.

Donald's commitment to mentoring stems from a deeply rooted passion for guiding young individuals on their paths, a mission that has significantly influenced his own life's narrative.

In his downtime, Donald cherishes moments with his family, and you'll also find him navigating the tranquil waters of the Hauraki Gulf by kayak, trekking and scaling the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, or pushing the limits on his road bike with marathon cycling adventures.

Farrely is Māori who's whakapapa back to a small town called Horeke in the beautiful Hokianga.  However she was born and raised in the promised land of Glen Innes. Farrely is passionate about young people and has been in this line of work for over 15 years. 

Farrely's happy place is by, in or near the water. Any opportunity to be around water she takes with both hands. 

Farrely other passion is League and is a LOYAL Warriors fan. She believes this is their year. UP THE WARRIORS!!!!

Raised in the beautiful Hawkes Bay, Jaelyn moved to Auckland 6 years ago! Currently in her last year of a Bachelor degree in Psychology and Maori Studies! Jaelyn is passionate about empowering young people to be more confident in who they are. She's excited to be apart of the team at Upside and in playing a part in supporting mentors and our rangatahi and their whānau!

Holly is a born and bred South Islander who loves the outdoors. With a bachelor's degree in communication studies and a diploma and certificate in Christian ministry, Holly is passionate about working with young people in Aotearoa. Holly, as Upside's Mentoring Support Coordinator (admin and events), has the opportunity to combine her skills and passions by creating memorable events for our rangatahi and mentors to enjoy. Holly has an irrational fear of pigeons, so we can only assume at this stage that there probably won't be any events near Queen Street or even the park.

Olive is Upside's Communications Coordinator, where she gets to story tell all magic and special things young people and their mentors are doing with Upside. And keep the team looking good and colourful in the community.

The multi-faceted Olive has worked in advertising, arts education, public relations, hospitality, and early childhood education. Olive studied Digital Marketing in 2018 and worked as a remote consultant for four years after recognising the importance of keeping up with the digital landscape. 

Olive's dad was an engineer, and she grew up around the world and developed a love for traveling and cultures. Her three children were born and raised in New Zealand, where Olive has lived for 21 years. Her passion for traveling to Mexico one day is matched by an obsession with Frida Kahlo.  That's why her dogs are called Frida and Diego.

Rowan joins Upside in the fundraising area, to work on funding applications to the many wonderful foundations who support youth and community development. Previously she managed parks and fundraised for two amazing environmental charities in London. A passion of Rowan's is getting people involved in their local parks and green spaces to make a difference in communities. She's now excited for a change in scenery with Upside, to her it's all about volunteering and making young people's lives better.

CURRENTLY ON MATERNITY LEAVE : Rachel is a born and bred Aucklander who calls Takanini home! Joining the team as a fundraiser, she brings experience across from raising funds in the community health sector. Rachel is passionate about working with amazing people out there who also want to make positive changes together in this slice of paradise we call Aotearoa.

In the summer months, you'll find Rachel happily swimming at the beach (or pool if there's an invite out there) or in winter, trying to get to the snow to jump on a pair of skis.