National Executive Board
Portfolios: National Registration and Public Awareness
Email: DTregistrar@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mobile: 021463973
I would love to be able to support you to achieve your National Registration.
I am Responsible: I am committed to stable values of honesty and loyalty.
I love to learn: I have a great desire to learn and want to continuously improve.
I am a Relator: I find deep satisfaction in working hard with people and support them to achieve goals.
I am Strategic: I am good in creating alternative ways to proceed given any scenario.
I am an Achiever: I have a great deal of stamina and I am a hard worker. It gives me great satisfaction from being busy and productive.
Portfolios: Website, Social Media and Public Awareness
Email: treasurer@diversionaltherapy.net.nz socialmedia@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mobile: 022 130 4950
Kia Ora Koutou Katoa
I am from the beautiful country known as the pearl of the orient – Philippines. I have always been a strong believer of continuous professional development. This is important to ensure quality and being the best version of yourself and your practice in the “here and now”.
I am very honoured to be part of the board for the society of Diversional and Recreational Therapists in Aotearoa as I consider this an extremely rich avenue for professional growth. Working with like-minded people who are very passionate about increasing the quality of life of people under our care, thrills me to the truest sense.
I am happily married, to SHEIK, my wife and bestfriend since 25 years ago. We are blessed with our tamariki – ARROW and AXE, who loves everything we do as DRTs.
I am currently the Programme leader for the Diversional and Recreational Therapy programme of Sound Care Group. I am also the programme leader for the Certificate in Diversional Therapy and Community Health of Kauri Academy. I also operate Brain Champ NZ as the director and master-coach, a lot of our services here are very relevant to therapeutic recreational activities and cognitive mastery.
I am very excited to get to know more members and DRTs around the country. Work hand in hand with you to continue to promote and advocate for our very important role.
Naku te rourou nau te rourou ka ora ai te iwi – “With your basket and my basket the people will thrive “
Portfolios: Education, International Relations, Public Awareness, Cultural Awareness, Fundraising, Newsletter
Email: president@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mobile: 021818344
Tēnā koutou katoa,
Greetings members, many of you already know me as Orquidea (Spanish for Orchid). I was born in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, Mexico, I am a Mexikiwi – Aotearoa has been my home for the last 13 years. I don’t have children, but I do have a fantastic husband Luis Soto who was born in Costa Rica.
I am the current President for NZSDRT Inc. and my current portfolios include and are not limited to; International Relations, Public Awareness and Education. I am passionate about Diversional and Recreational Therapy and I strongly believe the job we do is fundamental to enhance the quality of life of human beings across the globe. I love learning and sharing my knowledge with others. I have a BA on International Relations & Human Rights, studies in Health Promotion, many other national and international certifications, and currently trying hard to complete my Master’s. I have won a few national awards for my DRT input in NZ and my work has been recognized in the health care sector. I have also published a few articles and I am a board member and trustee of different organisations in NZ and internationally. I also hold a few memberships for organisations relevant to our field in NZ and overseas and I have my own consultancy, which I use to do a lot of pro bono DRT work – but I also have a full-time job as the National Therapeutic Recreation Specialist for Summerset Group Holdings.
I am a fun-caring human whom loves making friends and connecting people. I consider myself a networker. There is still a lot of work to be done in our field and I believe the experience and skills I have can enhance NZSDRT Inc. work to keep growing and reaching higher places for our profession to get the recognition it truly deserves.
Ngā mihi nu
David and his team have been working with businesses big and small throughout West Auckland for the better part of 20 years.
“Our passion is working with business owners to help them to achieve their business goals. Like me, they didn’t get into business to get bogged down in admin or review business information months after the fact”. “I work with my clients in real time, providing tax and accounting advice that will add dollars to their bottom line and real value to their business”.
With a background in investment banking David has a lot of business and finance knowledge that he puts to work helping clients with straightforward business advice and support.
With two offices in Mt Eden and New Lynn, David spends most of his time meeting with clients. Whether you’re based near the city or out West, David can meet you at one of his two office locations.
Portfolios: National Conference and Public Awareness
Email: dtconference@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mob: 027 333 1414
I am Jezka Tan Birondo. I am the only daughter in our family; I have two brothers.
My father is a retired seafarer and my mother is a housewife. I am married to a John who is a Registered Nurse in the Philippines and we have one daughter name Jazmine Faith. I was born and raised in the Philippines. I am a Roman Catholic. I have a Bachelor Degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management.
After I arrived in New Zealand, I gained qualifications in Health and wellbeing and worked as an HCA for two years. Management noticed my potential in becoming a DRT so I was given the opportunity to study DRT. I am now working as a DRTh with the same company, which I’ve worked now for nearly seven years. My long-term goal is to be able to gain more experience in this field and to contribute to the betterment of my workplace, society and this organization. I am self-motivated, dynamic and disciplined soul. I am always keen to upskill myself by learning new things whenever I get a chance. I also have a strong portfolio of advance technology research implementation. My strengths are my analytical approach, my human touch to the situations, my appreciable communication, and presentation skills. I believe upon being realistic. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends, sometimes cooking/baking, listening to music, karaoke, dancing, reading, traveling, and learning video editing. I am passionately committed to share and use my talents and skills to come up with an excellent result.
Portfolios: Education, International Relations, Public Awareness, Cultural Awareness, Fundraising, Newsletter
Email: VicePresident@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mob: 0211456769
” The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart…….”
Portfolios: Regional Support Groups and Public Awareness
Email: rsg@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mobile: 0277115019
I have been a practicing Diversional and Recreational therapist for the last 15 years. I became a Registered Diversional Therapist in 2013, graduating at my first ever NZSDRT Conference in Hamilton. I am currently working at Stillwater Lifecare in Nelson, a Retirement Village complete with a Rest Home, a Dementia Unit and Hospital Level Care catering to 69 residents as well as those living in our Apartments and Villas. I am very passionate about the role I play in my resident’s lives believing in person-centered care. I am an active member of our local Support Group
here in Nelson and was a member of the very successful, “Canterbury Can” Conference Committee in 2018, something I’m very proud of. I have been on the NZSDRT Registration Board previously, before being elected onto the Executive Board, taking the role of Regional Support Group Liaison in 2020. This is a role I that I have found rewarding and that I have enjoyed immensely. In my downtime, I enjoy spending time with my partner, my 2 adult children, my family, friends and our much-loved fur son, Jaxom. I enjoy camping, movies, eating out, chillaxing at home and just spending time with those that are important. I am very passionate about our Society and if I get reappointed to the role of Regional Support Liaison, I will continue to support each group/member through communication and education enabling you to remain linked to the Society’s beliefs and values. I will continue to promote the importance of registration and professional growth. I once again look forward to working with you all. Thank you/Ngā mihi nui.
Portfolios: Society History, Public Awareness
Email: historian@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mobile: 021944959
I believe that I will continue to be an asset on the Executive Board, as I approached my role as Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapist with love, empathy and passion. I believe that my role as a Registered Diversional Therapist is extremely
important in the community. As New Zealand’s population is aging, it is becoming more critical to have a structure in place where the elderly is cared for in a way that enrich their lives. We provide this service with the meaningful activities we offer as DRThs. I feel strongly that the National Executive Board is a competent and extremely important platform to advocate the importance of Diversional Therapy in New Zealand and I pledge, if voted back onto the Board, for a second term, to serve the Board and our DRT community with respect and pride. I will further pledge my time to educate those around me, to understand the role we as activities staff plays in the community. I am hoping to be of more support to the activities staff in my area, as I know that many of them, are navigating their day with difficulty, through the Covid pandemic and
through a national crisis of short staffing. I would continue to live out my motto: “We are in this together. How can I help you?” I am passionate about diversity within our Aged Care Facilities as well as in the workplace, and would love to break through barriers of limitations in this area with the support of our wider Diversional Therapy Community behind me. Originally from Africa, I am very proud to be a Permanent Resident of beautiful Aotearoa. I currently work as the Lifestyle & Leisure Manager for Kapiti Retirement Trust, a Charitable Trust in the beautiful Kapiti Coast Region. In my free time I am an avid reader and writer. I read a wide spectrum of books, enjoying most genres and I love to put pen to paper. I love everything old and enjoy upcycling and restoring antique furniture. I believe that every piece of furniture I work with has a unique story to tell and a history to reveal. I am a proud wife, to husband, Gavin and a Mum to my two very-busy-always-on-the-go-teenage children. I am passionate about animals and try to be as involved as my time allows me to be, in the rescue of animals in need. I am Mum to four fur babies, all four being rescued.
Thomas Co. Director
Michael has an LLB/BA from the University of Auckland and was awarded the Senior Prize in law in 2004. Michael commenced with the firm in 2006 and oversees Property and Commercial matters. He has extensive experience working on trust matters providing sound and pragmatic advice to all of his clients.
In his spare time Michael is a passionate football player coach for Waitakere City Football Club and supporter of Tottenham
Portfolios: National Registration and Public Awareness
Email: DTregistrar@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mobile: 021463973
I would love to be able to support you to achieve your National Registration.
I am Responsible: I am committed to stable values of honesty and loyalty.
I love to learn: I have a great desire to learn and want to continuously improve.
I am a Relator: I find deep satisfaction in working hard with people and support them to achieve goals.
I am Strategic: I am good in creating alternative ways to proceed given any scenario.
I am an Achiever: I have a great deal of stamina and I am a hard worker. It gives me great satisfaction from being busy and productive.
Portfolios: Website, Social Media and Public Awareness
Email: treasurer@diversionaltherapy.net.nz socialmedia@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mobile: 022 130 4950
Kia Ora Koutou Katoa
I am from the beautiful country known as the pearl of the orient – Philippines. I have always been a strong believer of continuous professional development. This is important to ensure quality and being the best version of yourself and your practice in the “here and now”.
I am very honoured to be part of the board for the society of Diversional and Recreational Therapists in Aotearoa as I consider this an extremely rich avenue for professional growth. Working with like-minded people who are very passionate about increasing the quality of life of people under our care, thrills me to the truest sense.
I am happily married, to SHEIK, my wife and bestfriend since 25 years ago. We are blessed with our tamariki – ARROW and AXE, who loves everything we do as DRTs.
I am currently the Programme leader for the Diversional and Recreational Therapy programme of Sound Care Group. I am also the programme leader for the Certificate in Diversional Therapy and Community Health of Kauri Academy. I also operate Brain Champ NZ as the director and master-coach, a lot of our services here are very relevant to therapeutic recreational activities and cognitive mastery.
I am very excited to get to know more members and DRTs around the country. Work hand in hand with you to continue to promote and advocate for our very important role.
Naku te rourou nau te rourou ka ora ai te iwi – “With your basket and my basket the people will thrive “
Portfolios: Education, International Relations, Public Awareness, Cultural Awareness, Fundraising, Newsletter
Email: president@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mobile: 021818344
Tēnā koutou katoa,
Greetings members, many of you already know me as Orquidea (Spanish for Orchid). I was born in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, Mexico, I am a Mexikiwi – Aotearoa has been my home for the last 13 years. I don’t have children, but I do have a fantastic husband Luis Soto who was born in Costa Rica.
I am the current President for NZSDRT Inc. and my current portfolios include and are not limited to; International Relations, Public Awareness and Education. I am passionate about Diversional and Recreational Therapy and I strongly believe the job we do is fundamental to enhance the quality of life of human beings across the globe. I love learning and sharing my knowledge with others. I have a BA on International Relations & Human Rights, studies in Health Promotion, many other national and international certifications, and currently trying hard to complete my Master’s. I have won a few national awards for my DRT input in NZ and my work has been recognized in the health care sector. I have also published a few articles and I am a board member and trustee of different organisations in NZ and internationally. I also hold a few memberships for organisations relevant to our field in NZ and overseas and I have my own consultancy, which I use to do a lot of pro bono DRT work – but I also have a full-time job as the National Therapeutic Recreation Specialist for Summerset Group Holdings.
I am a fun-caring human whom loves making friends and connecting people. I consider myself a networker. There is still a lot of work to be done in our field and I believe the experience and skills I have can enhance NZSDRT Inc. work to keep growing and reaching higher places for our profession to get the recognition it truly deserves.
Ngā mihi nu
David and his team have been working with businesses big and small throughout West Auckland for the better part of 20 years.
“Our passion is working with business owners to help them to achieve their business goals. Like me, they didn’t get into business to get bogged down in admin or review business information months after the fact”. “I work with my clients in real time, providing tax and accounting advice that will add dollars to their bottom line and real value to their business”.
With a background in investment banking David has a lot of business and finance knowledge that he puts to work helping clients with straightforward business advice and support.
With two offices in Mt Eden and New Lynn, David spends most of his time meeting with clients. Whether you’re based near the city or out West, David can meet you at one of his two office locations.
Portfolios: National Conference and Public Awareness
Email: dtconference@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mob: 027 333 1414
I am Jezka Tan Birondo. I am the only daughter in our family; I have two brothers.
My father is a retired seafarer and my mother is a housewife. I am married to a John who is a Registered Nurse in the Philippines and we have one daughter name Jazmine Faith. I was born and raised in the Philippines. I am a Roman Catholic. I have a Bachelor Degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management.
After I arrived in New Zealand, I gained qualifications in Health and wellbeing and worked as an HCA for two years. Management noticed my potential in becoming a DRT so I was given the opportunity to study DRT. I am now working as a DRTh with the same company, which I’ve worked now for nearly seven years. My long-term goal is to be able to gain more experience in this field and to contribute to the betterment of my workplace, society and this organization. I am self-motivated, dynamic and disciplined soul. I am always keen to upskill myself by learning new things whenever I get a chance. I also have a strong portfolio of advance technology research implementation. My strengths are my analytical approach, my human touch to the situations, my appreciable communication, and presentation skills. I believe upon being realistic. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends, sometimes cooking/baking, listening to music, karaoke, dancing, reading, traveling, and learning video editing. I am passionately committed to share and use my talents and skills to come up with an excellent result.
Portfolios: Education, International Relations, Public Awareness, Cultural Awareness, Fundraising, Newsletter
Email: VicePresident@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mob: 0211456769
” The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart…….”
Portfolios: Regional Support Groups and Public Awareness
Email: rsg@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mobile: 0277115019
I have been a practicing Diversional and Recreational therapist for the last 15 years. I became a Registered Diversional Therapist in 2013, graduating at my first ever NZSDRT Conference in Hamilton. I am currently working at Stillwater Lifecare in Nelson, a Retirement Village complete with a Rest Home, a Dementia Unit and Hospital Level Care catering to 69 residents as well as those living in our Apartments and Villas. I am very passionate about the role I play in my resident’s lives believing in person-centered care. I am an active member of our local Support Group
here in Nelson and was a member of the very successful, “Canterbury Can” Conference Committee in 2018, something I’m very proud of. I have been on the NZSDRT Registration Board previously, before being elected onto the Executive Board, taking the role of Regional Support Group Liaison in 2020. This is a role I that I have found rewarding and that I have enjoyed immensely. In my downtime, I enjoy spending time with my partner, my 2 adult children, my family, friends and our much-loved fur son, Jaxom. I enjoy camping, movies, eating out, chillaxing at home and just spending time with those that are important. I am very passionate about our Society and if I get reappointed to the role of Regional Support Liaison, I will continue to support each group/member through communication and education enabling you to remain linked to the Society’s beliefs and values. I will continue to promote the importance of registration and professional growth. I once again look forward to working with you all. Thank you/Ngā mihi nui.
Portfolios: Society History, Public Awareness
Email: historian@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mobile: 021944959
I believe that I will continue to be an asset on the Executive Board, as I approached my role as Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapist with love, empathy and passion. I believe that my role as a Registered Diversional Therapist is extremely
important in the community. As New Zealand’s population is aging, it is becoming more critical to have a structure in place where the elderly is cared for in a way that enrich their lives. We provide this service with the meaningful activities we offer as DRThs. I feel strongly that the National Executive Board is a competent and extremely important platform to advocate the importance of Diversional Therapy in New Zealand and I pledge, if voted back onto the Board, for a second term, to serve the Board and our DRT community with respect and pride. I will further pledge my time to educate those around me, to understand the role we as activities staff plays in the community. I am hoping to be of more support to the activities staff in my area, as I know that many of them, are navigating their day with difficulty, through the Covid pandemic and
through a national crisis of short staffing. I would continue to live out my motto: “We are in this together. How can I help you?” I am passionate about diversity within our Aged Care Facilities as well as in the workplace, and would love to break through barriers of limitations in this area with the support of our wider Diversional Therapy Community behind me. Originally from Africa, I am very proud to be a Permanent Resident of beautiful Aotearoa. I currently work as the Lifestyle & Leisure Manager for Kapiti Retirement Trust, a Charitable Trust in the beautiful Kapiti Coast Region. In my free time I am an avid reader and writer. I read a wide spectrum of books, enjoying most genres and I love to put pen to paper. I love everything old and enjoy upcycling and restoring antique furniture. I believe that every piece of furniture I work with has a unique story to tell and a history to reveal. I am a proud wife, to husband, Gavin and a Mum to my two very-busy-always-on-the-go-teenage children. I am passionate about animals and try to be as involved as my time allows me to be, in the rescue of animals in need. I am Mum to four fur babies, all four being rescued.
Thomas Co. Director
Michael has an LLB/BA from the University of Auckland and was awarded the Senior Prize in law in 2004. Michael commenced with the firm in 2006 and oversees Property and Commercial matters. He has extensive experience working on trust matters providing sound and pragmatic advice to all of his clients.
In his spare time Michael is a passionate football player coach for Waitakere City Football Club and supporter of Tottenham
Registration Board Members
When I first started as an Activities Therapist, I knew it was the job for me. So, I went on to do my Diversional Therapy training and became Registered. I am also a Careerforce assessor, and I support Activities Therapists to become Diversional and Recreational Therapists. Now that my children have grown up, I feel that I have time to put into the Registration Board. With my Diversional and Recreational Therapy and education background, I feel that I have the experience required for the role.
I would also enjoy seeing others reach their goal of being a Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapist which is very important for our profession as a whole.
Portfolios: National Registration and Public Awareness
Email: DTregistrar@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mobile: 021463973
”I believe we all are on a constant path of self-discovery and change. It doesn’t matter how slowly we go as long as we don’t stop”
I’m a Registered Diversional Therapist and very grateful to step into this journey.
I believe the facilitation of diversional therapy in geriatric care and other health care sectors is a growing area, equally challenging as it is rewarding. I provide meaningful engagement along with our team, focusing on resident-led initiatives to reduce distress and always trying to fulfil unmet needs for those living with Dementia. Finding the right approach to comfort residents has sometimes been difficult and as a result I have felt helpless and guilty. These experiences motivate me to serve the community in more effective ways. I am excited by a growing niche of opportunities that advocate in taking time to understand the client and consider their humanity in order to treat them wholistically. In this, I see an intersection of my own culture, providing possibilities to improve their quality of life. I feel each Diversional Therapist is very special and makes a remarkable corner in people’s hearts. I look forward to contributing to NZSDRT and supporting the registration and professional growth.
When I first started as an Activities Therapist, I knew it was the job for me. So, I went on to do my Diversional Therapy training and became Registered. I am also a Careerforce assessor, and I support Activities Therapists to become Diversional and Recreational Therapists. Now that my children have grown up, I feel that I have time to put into the Registration Board. With my Diversional and Recreational Therapy and education background, I feel that I have the experience required for the role.
I would also enjoy seeing others reach their goal of being a Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapist which is very important for our profession as a whole.
Portfolios: National Registration and Public Awareness
Email: DTregistrar@diversionaltherapy.net.nz
Mobile: 021463973
”I believe we all are on a constant path of self-discovery and change. It doesn’t matter how slowly we go as long as we don’t stop”
I’m a Registered Diversional Therapist and very grateful to step into this journey.
I believe the facilitation of diversional therapy in geriatric care and other health care sectors is a growing area, equally challenging as it is rewarding. I provide meaningful engagement along with our team, focusing on resident-led initiatives to reduce distress and always trying to fulfil unmet needs for those living with Dementia. Finding the right approach to comfort residents has sometimes been difficult and as a result I have felt helpless and guilty. These experiences motivate me to serve the community in more effective ways. I am excited by a growing niche of opportunities that advocate in taking time to understand the client and consider their humanity in order to treat them wholistically. In this, I see an intersection of my own culture, providing possibilities to improve their quality of life. I feel each Diversional Therapist is very special and makes a remarkable corner in people’s hearts. I look forward to contributing to NZSDRT and supporting the registration and professional growth.