After five years as Chief Executive of Deaf Aotearoa, Rachel Noble will be leaving the organisation in mid-March.

During her time in this role, Rachel has seen the national organisation grow and develop through promotion of the core community goals: Deaf Awareness and Deaf Access in order to promote Deaf Advancement for Deaf individuals and the Deaf Community.

Key highlights for Rachel include the advent of New Zealand Sign Language Week, which is now in its sixth year and gaining momentum annually, and the growing awareness of sign language and the Deaf community in general.

Working within the new environment framed by the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Rachel says she has “absolutely loved all the challenges and had great fun on the way”.

“I have worked with four boards during my tenure, each with very committed community representatives, and worked with awesome managers. Plus, none of our accomplishments would have been achieved without the passionate team of people working within and with Deaf Aotearoa. I have learnt so much from everyone.”

Deaf Aotearoa’s Board has begun the recruitment process. Tony Blackett, General Manager - Social Enterprise, will act as Chief Executive until a new appointment is made.

On behalf of the Board, Deaf Aotearoa President Kellye Bensley says while saddened by Rachel’s departure, they are pleased that she is moving on to a new opportunity and would like to thank her for her hard work in increasing the profile of Deaf Aotearoa, and shaping it into the organisation that it is today.

Kellye Bensley

President
Deaf Aotearoa Executive Board