About Inner City Women’s Group
Our People
We have a highly qualified and experienced team of facilitators who are bound by the ICWG Code of Ethics and practice. All facilitators hold tertiary level qualifications and are highly experienced in their field.
Board of Trustees
Melissa Grant - Board Co-Chair
Melissa (Ngâpuhi) is a qualified counsellor with over 15 years of expertise in the mental health, addictions, and domestic violence sectors. She currently works for Whakarongorau Aotearoa//The National Telehealth Service as the Head of Mâori Service Development.
She has held various roles, encompassing clinical, supervisory, and leadership positions in both Kaupapa Mâori and mainstream social and health services.
Melissa is a passionate advocate for Mâori rights and uses her leadership and clinical abilities to work towards the well-being of the community. She envisions a future underscored by equity, support, and empowerment. Melissa is deeply committed to collaborations that put the welfare and outcomes of Mâori communities at the forefront.
Ann Marie Searchfield, RPN, MN, PGcertMgtSt - Board Co-Chair
Ann Marie is a Registered Psychiatric Nurse who has specialised in Acute Mental Health, and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry. She has a particular interest in the social imperatives of mental health. Ann Marie has in the past worked in workforce development within the mental health sector, and has led a service that uses digital and innovative new ways of supporting wellbeing for people. She now works for Ara Poutama (Corrections) where she is able to support the rehabilitation and health of those who are convicted of crimes, including family violence and violence against women. Her role on the board allows her to work with an organisation that sees violence as a gendered issue and to support and empower women, breaking cycles of abuse.