Rhys Jenkins

Chair

Rhys has experience in educational governance through previous trust roles, and was the

Institute of Directors Emerging Director runner up (Southland) in 2024. As Chair, Rhys

brings a pragmatic, calm, committed and enthusiastic approach. Rhys is a career

environmental scientist and has worked and lived around the world, predominantly in the

mining sector.

Now retired, Rhys is focussed on philanthropy and is dedicated to youth programmes,

Rotary, supporting local community events, and is a Justice of the Peace.

On the Board Rhys aims to lead the Trust to deliver its purpose(s) through sound

governance and financial responsibility.

Michelle Tipene

trustee

Michelle has participated in a range of committees in the past ranging from Southland Toy Library (Secretary 2005 - 2009) to Jellicoe Sea Scouts (Secretary and Treasurer 2019 - 2021).

Michelle joined the committee to support the work that Puna Rangatahi does in the community and with Dunstan High School. Michelle is currently Deputy Principal at Dunstan High School.

Adele Gott

Secretary

Adele joined the Puna Rangatahi Trust in October 2025, bringing over 30 years of experience in education, including 25 as a principal across New Zealand, Australia, and Brazil.

Her leadership has spanned diverse communities, from Alexandra Primary, to the American School of Brasília and most recently Yiramalay Studio School (learning and living remotely), in Western Australia.

Adele is passionate about creating inclusive, future-focused learning environments that empower young people to thrive.

On the Board, she brings a warm, strategic, and human-centred approach, with deep experience in governance, educational leadership, and community engagement.

MEET OUR BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Our board of trustees is the backbone of our organisation. They bring guidance, experience, and big-picture thinking to help us achieve our mission of supporting rangatahi to thrive. Each trustee brings their own unique skills and perspective, and together they make sure our mahi stays strong, ethical, and connected to the community we serve.

Christopher Wild

Deputy chair

Chris joined the Puna Rangatahi Trust in 2022, bringing with him over 15 years of experience across the social sector. His mahi has spanned addictions, chaplaincy, youth residential programmes, and corrections, alongside expertise in writing and securing tenders and government contracts.

Currently serving as a Kaiarahi Family Court Navigator, Chris is known for his strategic thinking, leadership, and passion for supporting whānau and rangatahi to thrive. He is also a dedicated foster parent and proud dad, which deeply grounds his commitment to young people and families.

Beyond his professional role, Chris is the President of Alexandra Gymnastics Club and a founding member of Central Otago Toastmasters.

As Deputy Chair (and former Chair) of the Board, Chris brings energy, innovation, and a strong sense of community to Puna Rangatahi.

Alix Crosbie

Trustee

Alix has experience in governance as a lead strategy and policy analyst and senior advisor in local government. Her background includes a decade working in communications strategy for clients across Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.

Alix joined the board due to the understanding of the difference initiatives for youth can make over the course of their entire lives. And she loves to get deep in a spreadsheet or two too.

Beyond these professional roles, she holds two elected roles promoting workers rights and environmental issues. She has two primary school aged children and is a member of the board of trustees for their school.