Our Team

We're a Kiwi team dedicated to providing healthy meals to children in need throughout New Zealand. We work closely with local schools and organizations to identify and support kids experiencing food insecurity. With your help, we can make a real difference in the lives of children across Aotearoa. Join us in building a brighter future for our tamariki!

Founder
Kerry Owen

Kerry Owen founded 'Feed the Need' to alleviate hunger and was awarded a Royal Honour for her charitable services. She's passionate about serving vulnerable children and youth and is a devoted mother of five.

Chairperson
Monique MacKay

A mother with a heart full of charity, Monique is deeply involved in her community and an avid volunteer across various organisations. Growing up in a culture where food brings people together, she values the power of connection and meaningful relationships in both her personal life and her work.

Board Member, Operations
Jennifer Larsen

Jennifer is a cheerful hospitality professional fluent in French, English, and a sprinkle of Italian. Her past involvement with Feed the Need fuels her enthusiasm to connect with, serve and support those facing challenges with empathy and compassion.

Board Member, Treasurer
Dylan Larsen

Dylan, with a background in aviation, customer service, and small business, merges professional skill with a love for outdoor pursuits. Global travels, especially to underprivileged areas in the Asia-Pacific, fueled a commitment to community service, driven by a genuine desire to see children thrive.

Board Member
Donna Greening

Donna Greening is a mother of 6 with 8 years experience in the mental health sector. Donna firmly believes that supporting our Tamariki will ensure their physical and mental well-being. "Ehara taaku toa, i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini" Rising up again is not achieved alone but rather through the strength of many.

Board member, Secretary
Chrissie Cuff

Chrissie holds a Bachelor of Health Science in Health Promotion. With 10 years of experience working in kitchens as a chef, she brings practical skills and appreciation for the importance of nutritious, accessible food. As a mother of two, she is passionate about supporting children’s well-being.

Advisor, Data Research
Micah Rapata

Born and raised in Tāmaki Makaurau, Micah Rapata is a pre-vocational doctor based in Auckland. His expertise in healthcare provides valuable insight into the needs of vulnerable and Kiwis throughout the country.

Advisor, Food Specialist
Ashia Ismail-Singer

Ashia is a North Shore local with 30 years’ experience as a registered nurse and a deep understanding of nutrition, health, and wellbeing. An award-winning cookbook author, she creates flavourful, accessible meals that bring cultures and communities together. With her practical expertise and heart for service, Ashia brings a unique blend of health, culture, and creativity to the team.

Multimedia Committee
Sarah Pemberton

With a Bachelor of Science specialising in Human Nutrition, Sarah's passion for the well-being of children in the community drives her to ensure they have access to good food, crucial for their growth and development to reach their full potential.