Christina Simkanin

I am deeply grateful to serve on the board of Cultural Conversations.

I come to this mahi with a background in science, community organising, and systems thinking. I hold a PhD in Biology, and much of my professional life has focused on understanding how living systems thrive and what conditions allow them to be resilient, adaptive, and interconnected. Increasingly, I see community in the same way.

My family and I moved to Nelson in 2019, and the well-being of our community is important to me. I care deeply about creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are. Spaces where differences are celebrated and people feel like they belong.

I’m honoured to walk alongside this kaupapa and contribute my experience in strategy, governance, and community development to help Cultural Conversations continue to grow and flourish in Whakatū.