After more than 30 years supporting people across the social sector, Kelly Katene has found her next calling at the Cancer Society South Canterbury.
Mrs Katene started her new role as the South Canterbury community manager earlier this month and steps into the position previously held by held by Tracey Barratt, who continues with the organisation as regional cancer services manager, supporting multiple regions across the southern division.
Mrs Katene has dedicated her career to supporting people through roles in health, wellbeing, family harm services, victim support, and community-based programmes.
Most recently she spent nine years with Victim Support as a team leader/manager.
In a statement she said she was drawn to the Cancer Society by its strong community presence and the opportunity to work directly with people across South Canterbury.
‘‘The role just felt like something I’d love to be involved in — to learn more, develop more, and stay connected with the community at a human level. I love talking to people and building relationships, and I’m grateful and humbled to have joined such a welcoming, highfunctioning team.’’
She will lead a team of three cancer navigators and one community co-ordinator, supporting individuals and families across the region and also work alongside more than 100 regular volunteers, a number that grows to over 400 who get involved in Daffodil Day — an aspect of the job she’s very excited about.
‘‘At Victim Support the team I managed were all volunteers and they worked tirelessly in this space, and I am grateful to still hold relationships with the team after leaving.
‘‘I was blown away when Tracey told me the number of incredible loyal volunteers the Cancer Society has locally, and I can’t wait to get to know them all.’’
Mrs Katene has lived in South Canterbury since she was 16, attending Temuka High School (now Opihi College) before completing further study at Aoraki Polytech, Otago University and Ara Polytechnic.
A mum of three daughters and proud grandmother to three mokopuna, she is wellconnected across the region and passionate about community wellbeing.
Mrs Barratt said Mrs Katene brought warmth, integrity, and strong community instincts to the role.
‘‘I was looking for a unicorn, and I got my unicorn.’’
Whether she will hand over the beloved Daffy the daffodil suit to her successor is yet to be determined, as Mrs Barratt will still call Timaru her home base in her new role.
Mrs Katene said she was looking forward to continuing to build on the strong relationship the society has with the community.
‘‘I’m looking forward to working alongside the incredible legends in our community who contribute to the South Canterbury Cancer Society.
‘‘The dedication, compassion, and ongoing efforts make a meaningful and lasting impact for people and wha ¯nau throughout our community. ‘‘Together, we will all, truly make a difference.’’ — Allied Media
