Sharon Clair
Founder & Programme Director
Sharon Clair brings over 30 years of governance and leadership expertise to help organisations navigate complex challenges, strengthen strategy, and drive impactful decision-making. She partners with clients to deliver practical, future-focused solutions that create lasting success.
Mo Cooper
Trustee – Governance and Business.
Moana Cooper is an experienced entrepreneur, business owner, and former iwi chair, dedicated to driving sustainable growth and empowering Māori enterprise. With a strong background in governance and leadership, he supports businesses and communities in building resilience and creating new opportunities.
Hohepa Cooper
Trustee – Governance, Policy
Hohepa Cooper is a dedicated leader and community advocate with experience as a school principal and council candidate. As a HandsUp trustee, his strong organisational skills, analytical thinking, and commitment to integrity ensure that policies, records, and governance processes are well-structured, accurate, and aligned with best practices.
Nicki Rees
Trustee – Policy and Programmes
Providing governance and strategic leadership for Māori-led education and parenting initiatives. Nicki is dedicated to strengthening whānau, education, and community wellbeing through culturally responsive leadership. With expertise in education, parenting support, and whānau development, she provides strategic guidance and practical solutions to empower families
Rhoda Johnston
Trustee/Treasurer – Policy and Health
Rhoda is a Registered Primary Health Nurse with expertise in mental health and community health, bringing a deep understanding of care, advocacy, and well-being to her governance role. As a HandsUp trustee and treasurer her critical thinking, crisis management, and community engagement help shape policies and initiatives that support vulnerable families with compassion and effectiveness.
Andrew Paul
Operational Management
With 30 years in the government sector, working alongside Māori, Iwi, and non-profits, Andrew has led strategic planning, change management, and governance across diverse organizations’, including global companies.
Passionate about values-based leadership and innovative organisational design, he focuses on strengthening both organisations’ and their people through collaboration, integrity, and dynamic solutions. His work centers on transformational programmes that drive long-term sustainability for the communities and organisations’ he serves.