Two longtime GenderBridge board members have stepped down, paving the way for a young new board member to join the Auckland-based transgender support organisation. Cathy Parker and Thomas Hamilton did not seek re-election at its AGM on Tuesday night. Kestin Stewart has been voted onto the board and his inclusion is expected to bring a valuable youth perspective to the committee room. Stewart says it was suggested he join due to his experience on the Rainbow Youth board. "I can continue to bring a strong youth perspective," he says. "I hope to continue the strengthening of the GenderBridge organisation and increasing its diversity." Jaimie Veale has been re-elected as chair and Max Lawson has taken on the role of secretary and treasurer. Hannah Rossiter, Julie Watson, Allyson Hamblett, Kelly Ellis and K1 Ellis fill the remaining board positions. Chair Jaimie Veale said she was excited to be working with a reinvigorated board with a diverse range of new members. She said GenderBridge owed a debt of gratitude to Cathy Parker, who had put in years of good service and hoped she would continue to offer her support and knowledge. "Tommy (Hamilton) has put in the hard yards too, with the financial position greatly improved under his stewardship," she said. Ms Veale also acknowledged the hard and often thankless task that Hannah Rossiter performed as secretary. "GenderBridge has gone from strength to strength and with new board members and a paid worker we hope to provide an even better service for trans people," Veale says. The board decided that GenderBridge membership will now be free, to make it more accessible. Anyone who wishes to join can contact coordinator Cam Michael on 09 916 2764, 021 113 547 or cam@genderbridge.org. Michael says anyone wishing to support the transgender community is welcome to become a member.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily New staff
First published: Thursday, 27th May 2010 - 1:13pm