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OPERATIONS
OPERATIONS
Kouma Samson
Kouma Samson
CEO & FACILITATOR | Te Arawa, Te Rarawa
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Born and raised in West Auckland as the youngest of six brothers, Kouma grew up in an environment impacted by severe hardship, including exposure to abuse, addiction, poverty, and bullying. These early experiences shaped a belief that life opportunities were limited, until he discovered rugby league as a pathway for growth, direction, and change.
He began his professional sporting journey at just 14 years old when he signed with the One NZ Warriors, and went on to celebrate his first Grand Final victory against the Brisbane Broncos at age 20. Over the next decade, Kouma built a professional rugby league career across New Zealand, Australia, and France.
Alongside his sporting career, Kouma has navigated the challenges and pressures of elite sport and life beyond it, drawing on lived experiences of adversity, resilience, and personal growth. These experiences have deeply shaped his ability to connect with and support young people, whānau, and communities - particularly in the areas of mental wellbeing, identity, and personal development. His commitment combined with his sporting background and lived experience, has been central to the development and delivery of programmes at Loose Change Charitable Trust.
When he's not at the local kura, on the field, or supporting kaupapa across the east coast, you'll likely find Kouma fishing, diving, and spending time with his whānau.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
TUNUI WANO
TUNUI WANO
CHAIR | Taranaki Tūturu
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Raised within the kura kaupapa generation and now a pilot for Air New Zealand, Tunui brings extensive knowledge of Te Ao Māori and strong professional discipline to his role, supporting the effective governance of our Board of Trustees.
He is deeply committed to hauora and strengthening resilience within Māori communities. As Chair of Loose Change Charitable Trust, Tunui provides clear, grounded leadership across all governance responsibilities, ensuring the trust remains accountable, values-driven, and focused on meaningful impact for whānau and rangatahi.
Samantha Knightbridge
Samantha Knightbridge
TREASURER | Te Aitanga a Mahaki, Ngāti Porou
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Sam is deeply passionate about the wellbeing of our rangatahi and tamariki. With a strong eye for detail and experience in programme coordination, she is a valuable member of our governance team, overseeing financial processes and ensuring the board maintains compliance and transparency.
With a background in the arts, Sam also brings a unique perspective on the connection between creativity, mental health, and cultural identity. This insight is woven throughout the work and values of our kaupapa.
TAMIHANA ARAMA
TAMIHANA ARAMA
TRUSTEE | Ngāti Kahu ki Whangaroa, Ngāti Maniapoto
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Tamihana is dedicated and passionate about kapa haka and Māori arts, key elements that help uplift and strengthen the cultural identity of our kaupapa and programme delivery. He brings a strong commitment to supporting the wellbeing of whānau and rangatahi within our communities.
Grounded in tikanga Māori values, Tamihana contributes thoughtful insight and a steady approach to governance, helping guide the trust’s direction and impact.
WI-LUKE RAROA
WI-LUKE RAROA
TRUSTEE | Ngāti Porou
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Wi-Luke brings an adventurous spirit, a strong work ethic, and a wealth of experience gained through extensive travel. His broad worldview and practical approach add valuable perspective to governance discussions.
Wi-Luke is committed to supporting initiatives that uplift whānau and rangatahi, contributing to the trust’s mission with energy, insight, and dedication.
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