Dr Jane Kelsey is a retired law professor from the University of Auckland/Waipapa Taumata Rau with a strong commitment to social justice and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, in line with the trust’s values and objectives. As a former trade union president and chair of a number of community organisations she also brings experience in governance and a network of contacts who are keen to make themselves available to support the trust in achieving its goals.

As the aunt of Jo Kelsey, Jane has seen how We Are Loud has changed the lives of many young people (and some older ones!) in West Auckland through its people-centred and inclusive approach to music education since the studio was established 5 years ago. In the past, many of these students have benefited from informal scholarships and/or support with instruments. The charitable trust seeks to build on those initiatives and create a sustainable platform to support students who would otherwise be unable to access these opportunities, and Jane is delighted to help contribute to making it a success.

Leea Lamatoa is a dedicated music educator based in Tāmaki Makaurau. She is a vocal and songwriting teacher at the University of Auckland, various high schools and a private vocal coach for professional artists. She has a passion for helping people discover the weird and wonderful things the voice can do, and for demystifying its inner workings. 

Leea also works as the Regional Director of Tāmaki Makaurau for Girls Rock Aotearoa, working to empower young women, trans and non-binary youth through music. 

When Leea is not playing music or teaching, you can find her at a market, watching cartoons, or spending time with friends.

Steve has worked in the music and events industry for over 25 years, with a diverse number of roles and on some of the world’s smallest and largest shows. With a history in club promoting that grew into working on Olympic games and some of the largest stadium tours in recent years, Steve brings a breadth of expertise when it comes to how the industry works. He is currently Vice President of Production and Logistics for Live Nation Australasia and splits his time between Australia and New Zealand, whilst currently studying psychotherapy in Auckland.
I believe a person-centred approach to teaching, development and management results in happier and more productive spaces for people to learn and grow. The freedom to create and the space to do so is a luxury many do not have. The work of Jo and the We Are Loud Team ensures those often excluded from this luxury have the opportunity to experience and grow their creative muscles. It is a beautiful and special gift to the individuals they teach, and the community at large.  

Jo Kelsey is the director of We Are Loud Music School, where she is dedicated to empowering musicians of all ages to explore their creativity, build confidence, foster community, and improve mental health through the power of music. Jo founded We Are Loud as an inclusive and safe space for musicians, educators, students, and whanau, particularly those from the rainbow, disabled, and neurodiverse communities, ensuring everyone has access to opportunities to grow and thrive.

With 15 years of experience as a music educator, Jo holds a BMus (Hons) in Vocal Performance and a Diploma in Music Teaching, along with extensive studies in psychology, coaching, performance anxiety, and neurodiversity. As a voice teacher, Jo is passionate about helping others discover their unique voice in a non-judgmental and supportive environment. She is also a committee member of the New Zealand Association of Singing Teachers.

Previously a performing and recording musician in both London and New Zealand, Jo has experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating the music industry as a young female artist. This motivates her to educate and empower the young people at We Are Loud, creating a more inclusive and equitable space for all musicians.