VOYCE CEO Announcement

  • Announcement from VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai Board Chairman Steve Ferguson – 18 June 2019:

Kia Ora

I am delighted to confirm that we have appointed Tracie Shipton as the organisation’s new CEO.

During her tenure as interim CEO, the Board and I were impressed with Tracie’s ability to not only drive meaningful action, but to unite the people in our organisation around our mission – that is, to amplify the voices of young people in care and ensure their voices are kept at the centre of decisions being made about them.

In six months under Tracie’s interim leadership, VOYCE expanded into two new regions, staff retention and morale improved, a wellbeing strategy for staff was created, and critical research partnerships with some of our country’s top universities were developed.

The Board has admired her spirit, energy and drive to achieve our aims. We have also greatly valued her commitment to the team and to build a strong and enduring partnerships.

On a personal note, I have greatly enjoyed working with Tracie and believe under her leadership VOYCE will go from strength to strength.

I do hope you join us in welcoming this exciting appointment.

Nga Mihi

Steve Ferguson
Chairman, VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai

Promise Three: Learning

Education as a gateway to dreams, rangatahi are supported to achieve aspirations.

Promise One: Care

Every tamaiti receives nurturing, protection, and provision, as any good parent would offer.

Promise Five: Voice

Tamariki and rangatahi are involved in decisions that affect them, and their voices are honoured.

Promise Four: Wellbeing

Timely, accessible, and culturally conscious health and mental health services are available to all taiohi.

Promise Two: Stability

Young people in care experience consistency, safety, and a sense of belonging.

Whānau care is where a child is being raised by someone in their whānau or extended family. Often it means a child living with their grandparents – but could also be another family member like an aunt, uncle or older sibling. Whāngai is the traditional Māori practice of whānau care.