Meet the Team
Chairperson
I emigrated to New Zealand back in 2007 with my family. New Zealand provided us with a fresh start and a home away from home. The Zambian community in New Zealand is proportionately smaller as compared to other African and indeed ethnic communities. But through the Zambians in Aotearoa Association, it’s a privilege and honor to be part of a team that brings this small vibrant Zambian community together. And as interim Chairperson, I am excited together with the team to be spearheading initiatives that enhance the welfare of Zambians living in New Zealand.
Munanga Mwandila
Deputy Chairperson - North Island
As a recipient of free education from my homeland Zambia, I am driven by the desire to give back to the community knowledge and skills acquired from a professional career in Food Security and Development. If we are to change from the traditional views of addressing development and poverty, I strongly believe that there must be constant introspection and thinking outside the box to support establishment of Zambian entrepreneurs.
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Christopher Kasonde
In the Southern African worldview of Ubuntu, I see all people connected and we all give each other our human identity -"I am because we are" And as Obama once said- "we are all bound together in ways that can be invisible to the eye; that there is a oneness to humanity; that we achieve ourselves by sharing ourselves with others, and caring for those around us.” It is this understanding that brings me to want to serve the Zambian community in Aotearoa in the role of Vice Chairperson for the South Island.
Henry Mbambo
Deputy Chairperson - South Island
Mwauluka Mubano
Treasurer
I emigrated to New Zealand in 2006 and I have been an active participant in events organized by the Zambian community. I have been a Treasurer in the previous Tiyende Pamodzi Association and also been a member of the Interim Executive of Zambians in Aotearoa Association Incorporation since its inception. As an Interim Executive member, I’m humbled to be entrusted with the noble responsibility of championing an association that strives to ensure a culturally connected, innovative, proactive, and prospering Zambian community in the beautiful country of New Zealand/ Aotearoa”.
I migrated to New Zealand in February 2007 to study. My family joined me in New Zealand in 2010. I jumped into ZIAA to ensure it became a legally registered entity due to my passion for an interactive and coordinated Zambian community in Aotearoa. I strongly believe that we are strong and good together.
Clenny Thebe
Secretary
I am a Zambian born and having a background in information technology helped me be able to help develop and manage the current ZIAA website. The position has given me more opportunities to get involved in the development of the Zambian community.
Chipulu Mofya
Communications (Protocol Officer)
Esther Chaza
Youth Representative - South Island
I took up this position because I believe there needs to be more youth engagement and involvement in the community. I’ve always been passionate about working with, and for youth, and being part of the ZIAA committee gives me the opportunity to learn more about our culture and the community. My hope is to work with the committee and provide a voice and insight for the youth.
Caroline Chembo
Executive Committee Member - North Island
I am a single mother (my greatest achievement) and a renal physician based in Wellington. After having read the objectives of the association and after consultations with close friends within the group, I have opted to be part of ZIAA. Being in my profession and current committees, I appreciate the need to follow the rules of engagement and contribute my all. I am a hard working individual and a team player.
Grace Chaza
Executive Committee Member - South Island
I am a registered nurse working in Christchurch. I have lived in New Zealand for 20 years and I have been an active participant in the Zambian community activities and in particular those within Christchurch. In addition, I have also participated in Zambian events in New Zealand at a national level including helping organize the Zambian independence celebrations in Christchurch in 2018. I am passionate about serving our community and feel I can provide significant contributions towards the community through this association.
