I’m taking on Sweat with Pride this June! 💦🌈

My name is Lisa, and I’m the Chair of the Pride Network at Contact - a role I wear with enormous pride and deep responsibility. It’s been a powerful learning journey and a genuine privilege to help support, connect, and empower our queer communities at Contact and beyond in my personal life!

For me, this kaupapa is about visibility, education, unity, and showing up - especially at a time when harmful narratives about our communities are louder and more accessible than ever. I don’t share that to alarm, but to emphasise why inclusion, learning, and strong community connections matter so deeply to me. I want to do better - in my education, in my advocacy, and in how I show up for others.

This June, I’m backing that commitment with action. I’ll be sweating for 60 minutes every day, holding myself accountable during my lunch breaks at work, and (this is the clincher here) challenging myself to exercise for 30 minutes every morning outside of work. 

My goal is to raise $1,000, and I’m going to be front‑facing about it. I’ll be sharing my fundraiser openly, tracking progress, and yes -- I’ll be knocking on a few doors at Contact and asking directly for support. As the Pride in Contact Chair, part of my commitment is continuing to create and protect spaces where our communities are seen, supported, and able to thrive.

I’m a proud cat mum, a proud queer woman in a same‑sex relationship, and someone who believes deeply in the power of showing up - visibly and consistently. Every dollar raised through Sweat with Pride helps fund life‑changing Rainbow support services here in Aotearoa, and every bit of support helps reinforce that our communities matter.

Thank you so much for backing me, this kaupapa, and our community. ❤️🌈