Chief Executive Officer
Victoria Smith
Victoria joined UpsideDowns in January 2023 and is thrilled to be part of such a great charitable trust. She’s worked in education for over 20 years, both International and Domestic, from Kindergarten to Adult, and her foundations in ESOL (English as a Second Language) and Second Language Acquisition instilled the importance of Communication skills that remain at the core of all she does. Born in the North-East of England, she moved to New Zealand in 2007 and now lives in West Auckland with her husband, daughter, and furry best friend, Sam the spoodle.
Accounts & Membership Administrator
Beatrice (Bea) Traub
Bea has been working for UpsideDowns since 2017 providing part-time administration support whilst raising her three beautiful children, including Emma who rocks an extra chromosome. She lives in Te Atatu Peninsula where she maintains a flourishing garden.
Fundraising and Digital Media Manager
Adrian Hatwell
Adrian joined the UpsideDowns team following more than a decade working as a journalist in the print media industry. Raised in the Waikato, Adrian now calls Tāmaki Makaurau home, where he enjoys experiencing the diverse arts and culture scene with his young teen, Hunter. Passionate about youth empowerment, Adrian adores working with UpsideDowns’ members and feels privileged to play a role in their communication journeys.
Volunteer Board of Trustees
Chairperson
Chris Steenson
Chris is the proud Dad of two mischievous little girls. He joined the Board to give back to the Trust who generously support his eldest daughter. Working as a professional in the freight industry, Chris spends his time with the family, catching up on motor racing, or working on DIY projects at home.
Treasurer
Phil Venables
Phil is the father of Joshua who has Down syndrome and has experienced the benefits and support the UpsideDowns Education Trust has provided for his family. Prior to joining the UpsideDowns Board, Phil spent 5 years on the Auckland Down Syndrome Association committee. Professionally, he has run a growing IT company for a number of years, has a strong interest in governance, and has previously completed a MBA. Now after a break from his time on the ADSA committee, he is keen to see how he can further support our community.
Secretary
Brett Cronin
Board Member
Nick Ling
Board Member
Cassandra Williams
Board Member
Trevor Alborough
Trevor and his wife Viv have a beautiful, chromosomally enhanced daughter Erika, adopted at birth. Trevor has worked as a computer systems administrator for many years. His desire to serve on the board is borne out of a desire to help where we’ve been so encouraged and helped on our journey – especially with Speech Therapy. Trevor’s hobbies include camping and splashing about in wooden kayaks.