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NZ Relay Outreach Team NZ Advisotry Group Members

Patrick Thompson

Kia ora everyone. My name is Patrick Thompson, I am Maori and profoundly Deaf. I was raised in the small
town of Tokoroa. My life experience was that of both Maori and Deaf communities. I worked at KDEC for a
number of years as a Residential Social Worker, followed by several years at the Deaf Association developing
services and a framework to support the Maori Deaf community.

More recently I have been involved in projects to identify the needs of Maori Deaf and was a key organiser
for the Maori Deaf Hui. I have a keen interest in supporting and promoting the NZ Relay service ensuring
telecommunication access for all peoples of Aotearoa.

Email: pacthompson_3@hotmail.com
Text only: 021 032 5394

Josje Lelijveld

I feel privileged that I have been selected as the outreach contractor, together with three more people in NZ.  

I have a fondness telling and educate people about the Relay Service.  Telling the Deaf, deaf blind, hearing
impaired and speech impaired people that they are able to have access in the telephone system and being
able to reach literally anyone.

They no longer have to rely on others and can be more independent.

I have been working with people for a long time in the sport sector, welfare sector and educational sector. 
And now I continue consulting with a variety of people, this time more in the marketing area.  

So for the South Island people, please contact me if I can be of any assistance as I am raring to go and
meet you people.

Email: josjedeaf@xtra.co.nz
Text only: 027 427 2702
Fax & TTY: 03 384 7277

Yatika Keshav

Hi, my name is Yatika Keshav, NZ Relay Outreach Contractor.  I was born in the beautiful islands of Fiji
and have been living in New Zealand now for over 15 years.  I attended Kelston schools during my
childhood years and carried on to attain my Diploma at the Auckland University of Technology.

I took on the challenge to be part of NZ Relay as it is a personally fulfilling role which allows me to make
a difference in the community.  Driven by my passion for computers & technology and my natural ability
to communicate with people, this role has also given me the opportunity to network with people and be
part of a great course.

My vision is to see NZ Relay services continue to grow and become a recognized part of community.

Please feel free to contact us at any time with comments or feedback on our services as it will only allow
us to grow.  We are here to help you!

Email: ykeshav@gmail.com
Text only: 021 186 5606
Fax & TTY: 09 818 9453

Monica Leach

Hi, my name is Monica Leach. I am a NZ Relay, Deafblind Outreach Contractor.

I come from East Riding of Yorkshire, England. I have a degree in Deaf Studies and Education Studies from
the University of Central Lancashire. I have travelled and worked in Africa, USA, Asia and other countries all
over the world. I have worked on two research projects, 'Video-technology for Deaf Elderly at Long Distance'
and 'DeafBlind Worlds' for Deaf Studies Trust Research Charity in Bristol, UK these research projects took
four years to complete. From these research projects I have gained a wealth of experience and knowledge
of Deafblind issues and video-technology.

I enjoy educating customers about the NZ Relay service. I feel it is really important for them to access this
service and to have contact with hearing people from a distance. This contact empowers people and allows
them to feel equal and independent, just as hearing people do.

I think it is wonderful to have the Internet Relay Service in this country! New Zealand is lucky to have this
service and it’s only the 2nd country in the world to have it.

For all Deafblind customers: if you have any queries or would like to get group together to share information
about this service and modern technology, please contact me as I am happy to organise group to get together
for discussion and support. I look forward to working with you all and building a strong network.

Email: monica.leach@xtra.co.nz
Text only: 021 073 9497
Fax & TTY: 09 813 5432