About Us
The Grace Street Project is a community-led initiative aimed at addressing some of the key challenges faced by south Invercargill. With some of the highest deprivation communities and rates of youth exclusion and disadvantage in New Zealand, this project aims to provide a multi-purpose community building to help bridge the gap and provide opportunities for growth, learning and social connection.
Get to know the dedicated team of volunteer trustees behind the Grace Street Project.
Who is IC2?
The Invercargill Community Connections Charitable Trust (IC2) was formed in 2020 to develop and run the Grace Street project.
It’s volunteer trustees are:
Janette Malcolm, Chair
Janette has extensive experience in international business, law, and community development.
Janette is involved in the projects as she recognises the significant local need for a space like this.
Terry Nicholas
Terry is the Manager of Hokonui Rūnanga and the Portfolio Director for Murihiku Regeneration.
Terry champions community development and sees the project as pivotal for at-risk youth in south Invercargill.
Mervyn English
Mervyn has worked in senior roles in various sectors in major cities, with significant experience in public policy, delivery, and governance. He has now returned to Southland and is contributing to the community.
Lyndal Ludlow, Deputy Chair
Lyndal is an experienced educator with a passion for arts and heritage. She has been involved in not-for-profit governance for a long time and is also a Regional Councillor.
Craig Taylor
With over 20 years of experience in Secondary Education, Craig is the Tumuaki/Principal of South Invercargill high school, Aurora College. Craig sees the project as a space for people to access opportunities, enhance their mana and broaden their perspectives.
Joanne O'Connor
Joanne is the Project and Engagement Manager at Southland Business Chamber.
She is passionate about creating opportunities and inspiring people through professional development and training.
Chami Abeysinghe
Chami is the CEO of Great South, Southland’s Economic Development Agency. From Sri Lanka, she has been in Invercargill since 2010 and has a real passion for supporting young people to reach their full potential.
Sharon Reece
Sharon works in research and impact measurement and is deeply committed to working alongside communities to address disadvantage and create meaningful opportunities for rangatahi.
Susan works as a Chartered Accountant at Malloch McClean+MORE. Her experience is hugely beneficial to the Trust in assisting us with our financial management and accounting needs, and Susan is keen to give back to the community.
Susan Burke
Kim Forsythe
Kim has had a career in sales and marketing and has volunteered for many not-for-profit organisations. She is passionate about helping others reach their full potential.
