MEET OUR TEAM

Our Board

These dedicated individuals help guide and support Life Education Trust with their expertise, passion, and commitment. Our volunteer trustees and board members play a crucial role in steering the organisation towards achieving its mission and ensuring the effectiveness of our educational programs.

Harold the Giraffe Deputy Chair Kirsty Findsen

Kirsty Findsen - Chairperson

Kirsty Findsen is an experienced governance and finance professional with a strong background in leading large teams, delivering complex programmes, and driving continuous improvement across diverse sectors.

A Chartered Accountant with a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and Finance, Kirsty brings over 15 years of experience in senior leadership roles, where she has guided strategic initiatives, developed high-performing teams, and contributed to meaningful organisational change.

Kirsty has been involved with Life Education Trust Hamilton since 2023, first as Deputy Chair and now as Chairperson. She brings a thoughtful, inclusive leadership style and a passion for strengthening community impact through sound governance, clear strategy, and collaborative teamwork.

As a proud mum to two beautiful children, Kirsty is especially committed to supporting tamariki to grow up healthy, confident, and resilient. She believes in the power of preventative education and is excited to help shape the Trust’s future so that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Harold the Giraffe Trustee Phillip Cowie

Phillip Cowie - Dept Chair

I am recently retired from a lifetime career in the education sector including undertaking principal positions at schools in Hawkes Bay, King Country and Waikato. My last principal position was that of foundation principal at Rototuna Primary School from 2002 until 2008 having held previous principal positions in the Waikato at Pirongia and Bankwood Primary Schools. From Rototuna Primary School I worked for the Education Review Office undertaking positions of reviewer, and manager of review services. Most recently, up until my retirement in 2023 I held the role of Director Review and Improvement Services - Central Region. This role involved oversight of the evaluation of all schools and early childhood education services from Pukekohe in the north to Levin in the south (coast to coast).

"Throughout my career I have been committed to providing the best possible outcomes for children."

I have three adult children and four amazing grandchildren who I enjoy spending time with. Being born and raised in Otago I am a passionate supporter of the Highlanders rugby team ( which I might add is not always easy).

Anna Keucke - Trustee

With a lifelong passion for health and wellbeing—especially when it comes to children and families—I’ve built a career around helping people lead healthier, safer lives. My journey began in nursing, working across multiple countries and specialties to support patients and their families. Along the way, I also co-owned and operated a successful small business, gaining valuable insight into leadership and strategic growth.

Since 2017, I’ve brought these experiences together in the Health, Safety, and Wellbeing field, working in the private sector to promote positive workplace culture and holistic wellbeing—often in a high-vis vest, but always with people at the heart of what I do. I hold a Postgraduate Certificate in Health and Safety from Otago University, along with qualifications in adult education, health and safety auditing, and I’m an accredited professional member of the New Zealand Institute of Safety Management (NZISM).

As a proud mum to three teenagers, I bring empathy, lived experience, and a deep commitment to empowering young people. I’m passionate about creating environments—both at home and in the community—where tamariki feel valued, capable, and confident in themselves. I’m excited to contribute my voice and skills to the Life Education Trust board, particularly in areas of youth wellbeing, strategic planning, and community engagement. I hope to bring a practical, compassionate perspective that helps strengthen the Trust’s work and ensures every child we reach has the opportunity to thrive.

Aidan Poynter - Trustee

Aidan Poynter is a Financial Adviser helping every day Kiwis to protect what matters the most. Agian has always been passionate about helping others, with a background in operations management, education and aviation.

He started his career as a flight instructor, where he developed a strong foundation in education and mentoring. This experience fostered his commitment to empowering others through knowledge and guidance. After several years in the construction industry, where he developed his skills in strategic planning and leadership. He then transitioned into financial services, founding Fortify Wealth to help individuals and families protect their financial futures.

"I applied to join the Life Education Trust so I can apply my expertise in strategic planning, education, and client relations to support the Trust’s mission of promoting the health and wellbeing of children across the region. I am dedicated to ensuring that the Trust’s programs continue to empower young people to make informed, healthy choices."

Outside of work you can Aidan outdoors, on a bush walk or walking around his neighbourhood with his wife and their dog.

Harold the Giraffe Trustee Lydia Charteris

Lydia Charteris - Trustee

Lydia Charteris has had an extensive career in management roles within the animal health sector, both in the corporate and not-for-profit sectors, across New Zealand and the UK. She is currently the Project Management Consultant for the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) and DCV's "Project Dairy Vet Horizons," a pioneering initiative focused on future-proofing the dairy veterinary industry.

Lydia holds an MBA from Otago University, complementing her Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Nursing and Business Management. She has been recognised with the prestigious Research of the Year Award and has completed advanced leadership training through the Collaborative Leadership Program. Lydia's strengths lie in strategy, project management, and team leadership. She is passionate about using her skills for good and is dedicated to making a meaningful impact as a Life Education Trust Hamilton trustee.

Outside of work, Lydia enjoys spending time with her family, travelling, biking, trekking, and being out on the water.

Harold the Giraffe Educator Amy Roberston

Amy Robertson - Educator

I have been a teacher in Waikato schools since 2003 and have worked with all Primary School age groups during this time. I have enjoyed a wide range of leadership roles and have always enjoyed leading in the Health and PhysEd curriculum area.

In 2019 the opportunity came up to be part of starting a Forest School in the Waikato and working with students and families in this setting further developed my passion for Health and Wellbeing education and support. Working as an Educator for LifeEd offers fantastic opportunities for teaching and learning alongside so many tamariki and rangatahi and supporting Health education across Hamilton schools. The mobile classroom is such a fun and interactive learning environment and a great asset to be able to share with so many different schools in the area. It’s also great to have such a popular and well-loved new best friend – Harold!

I am a mum of three – all boys – aged 12, 14 and 16, who keep me very busy (mostly sitting at rugby and cricket practices and games). I’m a keen reader, novice gardener and outdoor enthusiast and my favourite way to spend leisure time is to gather with whanau and enjoy time together.

Harold the Giraffe Executive Officer Anu Rehka Deo

Anu Rekha Deo - Executive Officer

Anu Deo brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role at Life Education Trust. Currently pursuing her PhD at the University of Waikato, Anu's academic background is rooted in Education and Quality Assurance within both secondary and university contexts. With a strong foundation in these areas, she serves as a valuable asset in advancing the mission of Life Education Trust.

Originally hailing from the Fiji Islands, Anu is deeply rooted in diverse cultures and perspectives. Married and a proud mother of two children, she understands the importance of fostering a nurturing environment both at home and within the community.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Anu is a passionate sports enthusiast, particularly enjoying watching cricket and soccer matches. Her adventurous spirit extends beyond the sports field as she loves exploring the world and immersing herself in new experiences.

Anu's dedication to community work and helping others shines through in her commitment to making a positive impact. As a board secretary and with her extensive background, she is poised to utilize her expertise and skills to support Life Education Trust in its mission to empower and uplift communities.