The Team Behind The Model

Ramon Narayan

Ramon has been working with Youthline for six years and is currently employed as a Youth development worker, coordinating the Waitakere services and developing and facilitating youth development programmes, workshops and seminars. Ramon also sits on the national council of New Zealand Adolescent and Health Development (NZAAHD).For the past four years Ramon has enjoyed broadcasting his own radio shows on Auckland’s 106.9 KFM and is currently completing a Bachelor of Social Practice at Unitec Auckland.

Renee Haiu

Renee is the Youthline Manukau Coordinator, Youth Development Worker and Face to Face Counsellor, but began as a telephone counsellor in 1998. Since leaving school Renee has worked in Youth Development, predominately in South Auckland, in various roles at FLEP (Family Life Education Pasefika) and AW (Affirming Works); but also across Auckland, New Zealand, and overseas in a Special Needs School – London.  Renee is also passionate about using the performing arts to build resiliency in young people. Renee is currently completing a Diploma of Counselling from the Bible College of New Zealand.

 

Bec France

Bec is passionate about social justice and working for positive change in Aotearoa. Before becoming a full-time youth development worker at Youthline Bec was involved with Youthline for about five years in various roles like helping at events, telephone counselling, training and mentoring of phone counsellors, and working with young people in programmes such as voice and Standing Tall. Bec now predominantly works on coordinating events like the Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park, and doing health promotion seminars, and supporting phone counsellors in the hub. Bec recently completed undergrad study at Auckland University, completing a BFA from Elam and a BA in Psychology.

Dietrich Soakai

Dietrich has been involved with youth for the past six years and loves hanging out and just chilling with other young people.   He works at Youthline as a youth worker and Alternative Education support worker. Dietrich enjoys travelling, food, basket ball, listening to and making music. Dietrich is currently completing a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Auckland.

 

Ben Birks - Youth Health Contractor

Ben has postgraduate training at the University of Auckland in Youth Health, and has been volunteering with Youthline for five years. He currently is working on creating a transition pathway for young people with chronic renal disease within Counties-Manukau.