Hey Lauren, welcome to the team!

We are over the moon to welcome a new member to our Delivery Team this month! Lauren Robinson has joined us in the role of South Island Programme Delivery Lead and will be supporting schools and partnerships, delivering the SADD programme and facilitating youth action across the South Island. Read on to find out more about our new team member!

Tell us about yourself!

Kia ora! I’m Lauren Robinson, and I’m excited to take on the role of Programme Delivery Lead for Te Waipounamu. I live in Christchurch with my husband and our three children. I’ve been working in the youth mental health and wellbeing sector for the past seven years, including roles in guidance counselling, drug and alcohol support, and private therapy. I’m deeply passionate about helping rangatahi develop resilience and confidence to thrive in their communities.

Outside of work, I enjoy staying active, whether through teaching Pilates or taking time out for exercise. I also love cooking, losing games of 1v1 basketball with my son, listening to music, reading, and spending quality time with my family. When it comes to relaxing, I often find myself rewatching my favourite tv series—they never seem to get old!

What did you do before joining SADD?

Before joining SADD, I was the Head of Guidance and Schoolwide Health at Darfield High School, focusing on the wellbeing of students and promoting positive mental health practices. I’ve also worked in youth counselling, supporting young people through some of the toughest challenges, and helping them develop the tools they need to thrive.

What does road safety mean to you?

Road safety is about creating an environment where everyone, especially our young drivers, can feel confident and safe on the road. It’s a shared responsibility that involves education, empowerment, and a commitment to making smart choices. For me, it's not just about avoiding accidents—it’s about building a culture of care and responsibility that has a lasting impact on communities.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I love staying active, whether through fitness or spending time outdoors with my family. I also enjoy cooking, reading, and indulging in a good nap. If I’m winding down, you’ll likely catch me pottering around the kitchen making cookies with a sitcom in the background.

What excites you about joining the team at SADD?

I’m really excited to work with rangatahi across Aotearoa, helping them lead meaningful initiatives in their communities. I’ve already had the chance to meet some incredible young people and am looking forward to supporting them on their leadership journeys. I’m also eager to collaborate with school and community partners to expand SADD’s reach and impact, alongside the talented team already in place.

If you were on a deserted island, what three things would you want to have with you?

Definitely my family, as they’re my greatest support and joy. A reformer Pilates machine—because why not stay active on a deserted island? And lastly, a device to watch my favourite sitcoms on repeat—because even in isolation, comfort TV is a must!

Where is your favourite place in the whole world?

Mount Maunganui holds a special place in my heart. Having grown up in Tauranga, the beach and the Maunga have always been significant to me—it’s where I feel grounded and at peace.


Lauren is in the process of introducing herself to the communities she will be working with as well as getting stuck into Term 4 activity and 2025 planning! We are so excited to have her on the team and know she will be a wonderful asset to the South Island. Watch this space!

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Taking the Wheel: Georgie’s Journey with the DRIVE Programme

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Another successful NLP event in the bag!