Board Members
Our Board Members

Andrea Leslie
Andrea returned to the Y Board in March 2026, after completing her tenure as Executive Director at Primary ITO. She has over thirty years’ experience within vocational education and community focused governance roles. Andrea is deeply committed to empowering people to meet their full potential. Andrea previously served on the Board in 2016-2018 and is thrilled to be back.

Anna Bolland
Anna is a leadership and culture strategist based in Geraldine who joined the Y Board in 2020. Anna is our current Deputy Chair and within the Y, she hopes to add value around leadership, culture, operations, strategic direction, marketing, and business overall.

Barrie Suter
Barrie is a legal executive for a Timaru law firm. He is a Y Life Member and a Board member since 2013. He became involved with the Y through his interest in ensuring the Central South Island is a better place for the young people who remain here, rather than leaving to study.

Jan Cochrane
Joining our board in May 2024, Jan brings a wealth of experience in project management, strategic development, and event management along with a strong history of administrative and practical experience at community level. She has worked extensively across Mid Canterbury, and brings wonderful knowledge to the Y.

Jonathan Pow
Our current Board Chair, Jonny is a lawyer in Ashburton, working closely with clients on commercial and property transactions. A board member since June 2021, Jonny is keen to see young people grow throughout the Central South Island by building the Y’s educational and recreational reputation.

Josh Rooney
Josh has been a Board member since 2020. He is an accounting manager who brings a financial and youthful perspective to the Board whilst hoping to help continue the great work the Y does for youth in our community.

Madison Walker
Madison has extensive experience in strategic leadership, financial stewardship, and community-centred governance, specialising in strengthening systems that advance regional equity, safety, and wellbeing

Robbie Hill
Robbie brings experience in the legal profession in the commercial and conveyancing field. He joined the Y in March 2023 to support the academic development and personal growth of young people throughout the Central South Island.

Ryan Brosnahan
Ryan has a deep passion for youth development. and was appointed in April 2024 as the mana whenua representative from Te Rūnaka o Arowhenua. He is a primary school teacher in Timaru, dedicated to fostering a community where young people can grow, thrive, and become active, contributing members of society.

Steve Backe-Hansen
Steve is the General Manager of Marketing, Brand and Communications at ChristchurchNZ, which focuses on economic development, city profile and community impact. Steve is passionate about leadership, organisational culture and supporting initiatives that create positive outcomes for young people and communities.









