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Dr. Kelly Jones

Kelly is a registered Psychologist, with extensive experience in the neuropsychological assessment of infants and children. Kelly has a doctorate in psychology (developmental) and is an Associate Professor at the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) in Auckland, New Zealand. Kelly leads the Acquired Brain Injury research program and has spent the past 15-years researching a range of health conditions, predominantly stroke and mild TBI. Kelly served as Executive Board member / Chairperson / Spokesperson of the Brain Injury Association in Waikato from 2016-2021. In 2020, Kelly joined the Brain Injury New Zealand National Body and has served as Vice President since 2024. Kelly is passionate about providing accessible and evidence-based support to promote the well-being of adults and children impacted by brain injury and their whānau.

Arnold Andrews

Arnold is an experienced governance professional with a strong background across local government and the not-for-profit sector in Aotearoa New Zealand. He brings expertise in governance advisory, organisational behaviour, strategic thinking, and relationship management, and is valued for his ability to operate effectively at the interface between governance and management.

He has advised elected members, boards, and senior leaders on governance frameworks, decision-making, risk, and organisational performance, and has held senior governance roles while serving on multiple boards and committees in the community and social services sectors. His experience includes stakeholder engagement, intercultural communication, policy and process development, and supporting organisations to strengthen governance capability and accountability.

Dr. Ruth Barnett

I am pleased to represent the South as a member of the Brain Injury New Zealand committee. I am currently the chairperson of Brain Injury Association Otago and Canterbury. I have a background in health and am a retired GP. I now teach medical students full-time.

Over 10 years ago I had neurosurgery for a benign brain tumour and I had first-hand experience of the care and support our association provides. It is good to be part of that now.

I grew up in rural Otago and Southland and now live in Ōtepoti, Dunedin. I love being outside and enjoy a good walk, singing a song, and making food to share. Not always all at once.

Clare Shufflebotham

Clare is the National Administration Officer for Brain Injury NZ.

Eileen Varley

Colleen Moody

Colleen Moody has a background in public health service coordination, small business ownership, and has worked in the health and well-being industry. Her lived experience of a mild traumatic brain injury, along with supporting family members through similar challenges, fuels her passion for raising awareness and promoting education. She is dedicated to working with communities to enhance understanding of the impacts of brain injury, foster empathy, and ensure individuals affected have the knowledge, autonomy, and self-determination to navigate their recovery journey.

Desiree Cornelissen

As Manager Representative, Desiree Cornelissen is dedicated to amplifying clients' voices and championing their perspectives. She is dedicated to listening to managers across New Zealand to ensure all regions are represented in their work. Her mission includes fostering systemic change by influencing policy, reducing the stigma surrounding brain injury and fostering a culture of acceptance of diversity through education and advocacy..

As a manager, Desiree is committed to promoting stronger collaboration and transparency at all levels, striving to build a future where equity, dignity, and respect for those directly and indirectly affected by brain injury are foundational community principles..

With experience as an occupational therapist working with neurodiverse clients of all ages, she is passionate about creating an inclusive society. Desiree focuses on addressing barriers to accessibility and fostering meaningful connections between clients, families, and communities.

David Crombie

David has been a board member since 2015. As accountant and as President of Wellington Brain Injury Association, he brings a wealth of governance experience and knowledge.

John Skelton

John Skelton serves as a Chartered Accountant on the board.

Nerrily Frith

Nerrily has been with the Brain Injury Association of Wanganui for about 10 years. She started off as a board member, then moved into the positions of president and liaison officer, and was added to the National board three years ago.

With a long history of volunteering for many charities and community groups, Nerrily sits on three Wanganui District Council committees that focus on people with disabilities and the elderly. Her interest in the Brain Injury Association began when her daughter Nicole suffered a brain injury after a cycling accident. Nerrily continues to enjoy giving back to the community and making a difference.