Team Members

Tanya comes from an Arts and refugee background. In October 2019, she co created Cultural Conversations with Padma Naidu as part of Nelson Arts festival.

She believes that to address antiracism we need to commit to real action by stepping back and empowering our marginalised communities.

Amanda is Tangata Tiriti and was born and raised in Kaitaia in Te Tai Tokerau. She moved to Nelson in 2023 after five and a half years living overseas. She joined the Cultural Conversations team in August 2025.

I'm Alicia Rocha. I arrived in Nelson almost eight years ago, not knowing the amazing opportunities that this place would bring into my life. I started volunteering with Cultural Conversations last year, and through this space, I've been able to build a strong, supportive network.

Caro is originally from Argentina and moved to Aotearoa in 2018. She is a psychologist with experience in the health and social services sectors in her home country.

Hélène is originally from France and has worked as an actress, theatre director, and event coordinator, across a range of artistic projects, cultural festivals and live performances. Seeking a closer connection to nature and a meaningful role within a strong local community, Hélène moved to New Zealand and now calls Whakatū Nelson home.

Shrutika Pol, originally from India, has been calling New Zealand home since 2018. She is deeply passionate about building strong and supportive communities. She believes that every individual carries a unique story worth listening to and understanding.

Nilusha is originally from Sri Lanka and came to NZ to study accounting. She also teaches children traditional Sri Lankan dance. We are so lucky to have her doing our book keeping each week.

Hola, I'm Claudia from Colombia.
I have been living in NZ for 4 years and love my life in Nelson. Making gifts in general and toys for Christmas is something I enjoy a lot. I'm so glad to be part of the opportunities Cultural Conversations provides, particularly to join in the many craft activities.

Chandra, originally from Nepal, came to study the IT programme at NMIT, Nelson. He has stepped up as a freelancer in Web Development and Digital Marketing. He is passionate about helping the community through technology and believes that digital technology can preserve and promote the culture and recreate community connections.

Shakeela, originally from Pakistan, is studying English and is planning to start her nursing degree next year. She first got involved through the Global Stitch up and is now part of Her Business Journey. In 2024, she became part of the Cultural Conversations team.