Vivienne Deane
Chair (I am ME!)
I’ve served on the board for three years, bringing my 30 years of leadership experience in the Health and Disability sector to our diverse community. I am an active partner and so is Mum and Nana. I love my roles at home, work and in the community.
I am committed to supporting inclusion and acceptance. I aim to foster positive connections, promote PRIDE and celebrate diversity in Kirikiriroa.
Emmeline Summersong
Deputy Chair (she/her)
Kia ora, I’m Emmeline, your new Deputy Chair of Hamilton Pride! I am recently out (as of Sept 2023) and am here to give back to the community that has welcomed me with open arms.
I’m an IT professional who works full-time for one of the big New Zealand banks. I am also active in the Rainbow support group at work. My overall goal is to create a safe space for everyone so that we are all ultimately free to be ourselves
David Tasker
Treasurer (he/him/they/them)
Active in our community and not only with Pride but also producing drag events around the Waikato region such as the MX Mooloo drag pageant, the Te Awamutu Rose Ball, and the Matangi Halloween Extravaganza. I volunteer for Hamilton Pride, helping with applying for funding grants, creating budgets for our events, and submitting all the financial information to the NZ companies.
AKA Piper Blaster
Dennis Ralph
Board Member (he/him/she/her)
Dennis is currently retired but not tired! One of the founding members of Hamilton Pride, bringing in years of knowledge and insight to the team.
AKA Gloriousole. The Drag Diva!
Lisa C
Board Member (she/her)
Tēnā koutou! I’m Lisa, and I’m proud to contribute to the visibility and empowerment of the LGBTQIA+ community! I’ve volunteered at Big Gay Out and now I’m excited to do more than just talk the talk. I’m here to help create a positive, supportive space for our community.
When I’m not working in IT or volunteering, you can find me roller skating, playing bass, or singing my heart out in the bathtub.
Sending glitter and good vibes!
Shayden Taylor
(he/him & she/her in Drag)
Kia Ora Team – My name is Shayden also known as Rita Menu.
I have represented my culture and city on an international Drag show called “RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under Season 3”. Since starting drag, I have managed and produced many shows in Kirikiriroa. I have also had the honour to attend and work alongside other cities and towns allowing me to create a great network.
I greatly advocate for diversity, especially with our Tangatawhenua community always trying to create a space for us.
Tristan Fisher
Board Member (he/him)
Kia ora, My name is Tristan aka Pitchy!
I am the co-founder of Drag on Vic and an active member in the queer entertainment community.
I Have extensive experience in Music Production and Graphic Design, and as of the end of 2024, will be qualified in I.T Software Development.
I cannot wait to provide more to my community using my skills and experience!
Alastor O’Kane
Board Member (he/him)
Kia Ora! My name is Alastor, but some of may know me as the drag performer, Fizzy Pop.
I have been involved in numerous Pride Protests and am heavily involved in the activism scene in Aotearoa. I have a passion for providing a voice and standing up for our community in whatever form that takes.
My heart lies in the creative arts, having had experience in performance and visual arts for many years. I also have previous experience working in Sales, Government work & the hair and beauty therapy industry.
I’m always open for a chat !
Eleanor Rawson
Board Member (she/her)
I am an AUDHD wahine, LGBTQIA+, Maori , Qualified ECE Teacher with a passion for advocacy and the rights of people from all walks of life. I also struggle with C-PTSD and other co-occurring mental health conditions alongside this, and have had to navigate the mental health system because of it, which I often bring into my work, with that resilience of lived experience.
I look forward to bringing my experience to the Hamilton Pride committee