Two new board members appointed
Two new members have been appointed to the New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) Board today.
Video transcript
The new members Rosita Rapihana (Te Aitanga-a- Mahaki, Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti, Ngāti Porou) and Sarah Mason will bring valuable experience and perspectives to the Board’s work.
Rosita is an NZSL interpreter and currently works in the justice sector. She grew up with Deaf whānau and has a good understanding of the Turi Māori (Māori Deaf) community.
Sarah has worked in the NZSL sector for several years, including working with Deaf people with other impairments, so understands the diverse needs of the NZSL community.
Disability Minister Louise Upston confirmed the appointments, alongside the reappointment of Catherine Greenwood as Chair, with Joanne Becker and Jaime Brown continuing their service as board members.
These appointments reflect the Government’s support for the promotion and maintenance of New Zealand Sign Language
The contribution of Dr David McKee, who completed a four-year term on the Board, was acknowledged.
The two new appointments follow a nominations process led by Ministry of Disabled People - Whaikaha with final recommendations made by Minister Upston. The members were confirmed by Cabinet on Monday 19 May.
Established in 2014, the NZSL Board is a non-statutory advisory body tasked with promoting and maintaining NZSL and advising the Government on matters related to the NZSL Act.