Marlene has always had a love for the outdoors, but it was while secondary school teaching that she learnt the true value of outdoor education.  It was this experience which led her to form the POET Trust over two decades ago.  Marlene is a trustee of the Brian Perry Charitable Trust as well as the POET Chair.  She is also a trustee of Bridge Housing Trust, a local affordable housing trust.  Over the years, she has been involved with schools through several governance roles and working committees.

Shanan has over 20 years of experience in the outdoors as an educator, instructor, recreationist, and adventurer. In his current role at the polytechnic in Hamilton, he is dedicated to educating the next generation of outdoor professionals. As a current assessor for the New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association, Shanan brings a broad range of skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience to the Perry Outdoor Education Trust board. His active involvement as both an instructor and educator adds valuable insight to the Trust’s mission.