Our Board of Trustees
Erwin van Asbeck
Chairperson
Erwin has worked in the NGO community mental health, education and arts sectors for most of his life. Whilst managing Toi Ora Live Art Trust, he was asked to join the Circability Board. He’s proud to be a part of an organisation that has such spirit, passion, and the ability to make a real difference in people’s lives. Erwin and the team are singularly focused to ensure the best possible outcomes can be achieved and securing a funding environment that will sustain and enhance the valuable mahi and service that Circability provides.
Chris Adams
Health and Safety Portfolio
Chris serves as the Venue & Events Manager at Victory Convention Centre. His love for people has manifested in the strong relationships he has forged with clients, the corporate community, and support staff. He first encountered Circability in 2014 and was inspired by the impact they made in the lives of so many through the power of inclusion. It was an absolute privilege to join the board in June 2019. Navigating through many challenges over the years, it is very satisfying to see how Circability has grown in leaps and bounds and continues to have a tangible social impact through circus arts and intervention-based activities that directly address social needs.
Angela Withers
Child Protection Portfolio
Angela is a secondary school teacher with a passion for youth development and engaging young people in opportunities to allow their qualities to shine. Angela has a BA in Journalism & Literature and Grad Diploma in Education. She’s taught in Australia and the UK as an enthusiastic Drama / English teacher, Angela also worked as a Director of numerous musical and theatrical productions. Upon moving to New Zealand in 2015, she became involved with Circability through circus workshops and discovered the incredible impact circus can have on young people.
Ron de Vries
Finance Portfolio
Ron is a Dutchman who has 25 years of experience in the global pharma and food industry in various multinationals. He has traveled, lived, and worked in many countries and his expertise covers a range of disciplines, geographies, and cultures.
Since landing in New Zealand in 2016 with his family he has focused on his own advisory business that supports, mentors, and coaches for-profit and non-profit enterprises and especially the people that make them work.
Roka Nash
Circus artist and representative of the disabled community
Roka has been a Circability student for many years. She has developed her performing skills and talents and has been involved in many Circability shows. She enjoys spending time with friends and whanau and having a good laugh.
Alysha Dodampegamage
Circus Artist and representative of young Circus artists
Alysha has also been a circus performer for many years. She is currently a student at Mt. Albert Grammar School. A natural leader, she is involved with the Circ.Us youth group, growing a thriving circus together which informs the development of the annual Youth Circus Festival.
Kieran Taylor
Circus Artist, Circability Volunteer Assistant Tutor, and representative of young Circus artists
Kieran has been a Circus performer for many years. He’s an assistant tutor with Circability in our classes for adults with disabilities at Circability Central. He also helps teach community juggling lessons. Kieran is a representative of the Circ.Us youth group, growing a thriving circus together.