Kia ora, my name is Lily Joiner and I was on the Graduate Programme in 2021 & 2022. I completed a BA in Geography and Cultural Anthropology at Victoria University in 2019, including a VicAbroad exchange to University of Sussex (UK). My final research project on Climate Change Perceptions involved interviewing Kāpiti Coast iwi and residents; other interesting areas of my study included refugee experiences and decolonisation theories. I'm passionate about community engagement, diversity, ethics, sustainability, and all things people! In my spare time, I'm a football player, musician (mostly singing in a choir nowadays), enjoy bush hikes and beach walks, and enjoy all things interior design/DIY/crafts.

My motivations in joining the Grad Programme were to hone in on my skills & passions and help create more equitable outcomes across sport and physical activity spaces. I chose second-year placements at Sport Tasman and Napier City Council where my focus for 2022 was innovation and collaboration with diverse communities, and constantly pushing my comfort zone. This programme provides a special opportunity to deep-dive into various aspects of Public sector and sport & recreation sector, and customise the experience to suit your interests and aspirations. With help from the connections that SNZ assisted me in making, I am now working at Nuku Ora in a Partnerships Advisor role, where I get to work alongside councils, sport & rec organisations, and communities to increase the impact of Wellington’s active spaces & places on our people’s wellbeing. As someone of a social science background who doesn’t fit the typical ‘sports degree’ mould, I highly encourage anyone passionate about community and wellbeing to apply!