2024/2025 Board
Current Board
President
Tamsin Gurnell Hello, my name is Tamsin Gurnell and I am your MCSA President for the 2024-2025 tenure!! I am currently in my first year at Waikato studying a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Marketing and Public Relations. I am very excited to be a part of such an awesome team leading this tenure. I am super passionate about connecting with people and hope to bring you a range of awesome opportunities through MCSA. Outside of MCSA, you could find me walking my dog Coco, cooking, playing music or shopping! 
Events Manager
Aitana Arreseigor I was born and raised in Argentina, moved to NZ with my family two years ago. Im a second year student, doing a Bachelor of Business and majoring in Public Relations. As for my role in MCSA, I grew interest in event planning last year when I volnuteered and helped organise an event with the association. Im really excited to create some fun events that help students grow and get a foot in their careers. Aside from studies and work, I play football very poorly (unfortunately being argentinian doesn't make me a pro), and I like to dance. |
Vice-President
Ethan Walker I am a Bachelor of Business student majoring in Strategic Management with a minor in Digital Business. I am passionate about seeing people and organisations flourish and grow. In my role as Vice-President of the Management and Communication Student Association, I am excited to help fellow students access opportunities that will provide new insights and support their personal and professional development. I grew up on a farm in the far north. My ideal day includes spending time on the farm, with my parents, enjoying good food and drinks. 
Communications Manager
Alisha Dias I'm a first year student doing a bachelor of communications and majoring in public relations. I'm passionate about both communications and public relations and hope to become a public relations practitioner in the future. I love connecting with people and helping out in anyway I can. I'm thrilled to part of the MCSA board and hope to learn and grow from this experience. Apart from this I love to create art and listen to music in my free time. I also love to volunteer and help people in need whenever I can. |
Treasurer
Sebastian Bezuidenhout Hello, my name is Sebastian. I am working towards my Bachelor of Communications. I am majoring in PR. I'm very excited to be part of the team and cannot wait to see what the year brings! 
Marketing Manager
Luna Danipog Hi! I'm Luna, taking Master of Management Studies in Public Relations, with a decade of work experience in the same field. I love amplifying stories that help us connect with ourselves, with others, and with organisations. This would likely guide me in handling the Management Communication Students' Association's (MCSA) marketing strategy. Work and studies aside, you might see me creating or basking in good music and the arts, or petting a dog! My heart also beats for gender equality, diversity and social inclusion, climate action, and small local businesses. |
Prior Boards:
2023/2024 Board
Kia ora everyone! My name is Emma, and I am the President of MCSA for 2023-2024. I am a second-year student studying Communications with a major in PR and a minor in Leadership Communications. I joined MCSA because I saw its value - a club that helps students get ahead of the game through networking, events, and skill development - and I wanted to contribute my skills towards facilitating these opportunities. Outside of studying, I compete in Olympic Weightlifting (training out of the Unirec), as well as teaching the piano and sketching. I'm looking forward to a great year with MCSA, and I hope students can find value in what we have to offer!
Kia ora, My name is Alex and I’ll be the vice president for the 2023-2024 board. I like forming connections and really enjoy facilitating that for others. I had a lot of fun last year, so decided to run again, and was lucky enough to be re-elected! I’m currently working towards a Bachelor of Communications Majoring in Marketing and Public Relations. When I’m not studying you can find me outside on a run, or cooking up a storm in the kitchen. I’m also a massive football fan. I’m really looking forward to my time on the board, I’m sure we can accomplish a lot!
Hey everyone, My name is Grace Kingston and I am one of the Event Managers for the 2023/2024 MCSA Board. I am currently in my second year of studying for a Bachelor of Business majoring in Public Relations and Marketing. When i’m not studying, you can find me hanging out with friends, going out for walks or travelling around to new places! I’m super grateful to be apart of the MCSA Board for the year ahead and look forward to running some very exciting events for you all! |
Hello there! I'm Ridwaan, and I'm delighted to be the Marketing Manager for MCSA during the 2023/2024 term. Currently, I'm a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Business with a focus on Marketing and Supply Chain Management. I joined MCSA with the intention of establishing connections and actively contributing to the creation of accessible opportunities for students. Outside of my studies, you'll often find me gaming or knitting up a storm.
Hello, I'm Jayzel, a first-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Business with a major in Human Resource Management. I decided to join MCSA as I recognized it as an excellent opportunity to cultivate courage and confidence while acquiring essential skills that will undoubtedly support my future endeavours. In terms of my interests and hobbies, I am passionate about travelling, participating in leadership programs, offering a helping hand, and eagerly embracing opportunities to meet new people. |
Hey guys! I’m Lily. I’m MCSA’s new communications manager for 2023/2024. I am studying a Bachelor of Communications and majoring in Marketing and Public Relations. Besides my studies, I have a genuine passion for fashion, a deep love for animals, and a genuine enjoyment of being around people. I am so excited to be part of MCSA this year and I am ready for a year that contains many connections, opportunities and lots of fun.
Good day! My name is Farran Landers. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Communication with a major in Marketing and PR. I joined MCSA with the intention of further integrating myself into the University of Waikato community and establishing valuable connections within the industry. In my free time, I enjoy engaging in activities such as snowboarding and writing. Additionally, I have a keen interest in sports, including SRA, NBA, EPL, and UCL, as well as indulging in some PlayStation gaming. |
2022/2023 Board
Tēnā koutou katoa, my name’s Seamus Lohrey and I’m fortunate enough to be your new President for MCSA. I’m currently studying a LLB with a second major in Public Relations, love Football, and playing round with my guitar. I’m looking forward to working with students with their studies and future career prospects; we’ve got an awesome team to help you out whenever needed.
Hello, my name is Adam Bloodworth, I'm proud to announce I am taking up the position of Vice-President for the new MCSA board of 2022-2023, personally I am studying Psychology under a Bachelor of Arts, so why am I so passionate about management and communications you ask? Well personally I see that forming connections, building relationships and understanding the world around you is exactly what university as a whole is all about. Its this push to understand the integration of these theoretical concepts learned in class to the real world that is my goal by expanding opportunities for students to learn across the board.
Hi, my name is Sarah and I am the Events Manager for the MCSA 2022/23 Board. This year, I am in first year of a Bachelor of Management Studies, majoring in Strategic Management and Marketing. I am so stoked to be a part of the MCSA board this year and I can’t wait for the opportunities and experience it will provide. In my spare time, I love to be creative and am passionate about volunteering and getting involved. I also enjoy going on roadies to pretty much anywhere. Looking forward to the year ahead for MCSA events, so get excited! 🙂
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Kia ora, I’m Ben, and I’ve landed the role of Communications Manager! I’m currently a first-year Bachelor of Communication student, double majoring in public relations and marketing. I'm from the winterless Northland, and when I'm not adjusting to the chilly mornings down here, you'll find me doing photography or keeping up to date with local politics. I'm loving my study so far and am super excited to help MCSA continue to provide quality opportunities and experiences for Waikato students!
Hey!! I’m Emily, MCSA’s 2022/2023 treasurer/secretary. I am a first-year student working towards a BBus, majoring in finance. When I am not studying, I like to spend my time hanging out with friends, playing games and, cooking! I am thankful for this opportunity and to be working alongside my fellow board members. I look forward to many of our future events, MSCA is a great point of entry into the comms industry. So come along, say hi and take part!
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Hey everyone! My name is Emma and I am MCSA’s 2022/2023 Marketing Manager. I’m in my second year of studying Bachelor of Communications, majoring in Marketing and double minoring in Screen and Media and Public Relations. When I’m not at university or working, you’ll find me reading, drinking coffee, and watching Netflix or Anime. I am so thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the MCSA board and can’t wait to share events and opportunities on MCSA’s social media with you very soon!
Hey everyone I'm Alexander Veldsman, the assistant events manager for 2022/2023. I am studying towards a Bachelor of Communications majoring in Public Relations and Marketing. When I'm not studying you can find me on the football field, lost somewhere in the bush, or cooking up a storm! I'm looking forward to being on the board, and can't wait to see what we can accomplish!
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2021/2022 board
BREANA NOBILO
PRESIDENT
Hi I’m Breana Nobilo. I am the President of MCSA for 2021/2022. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Communications, majoring in Public Relations(PR). I am hoping to go into a career in PR after I graduate in 2024 where I can help people reach their own or their organisations true potential. I enjoy ballroom and latin dance, gaming, spending time with friends, Dnd, and food.
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CAROLINE KOLVER
VICE PRESIDENTHey! I’m Caroline, MCSA’s 2021/2022 Vice President. I am a second year student studying a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Marketing with a double minor in Communications and Agribusiness. I am so grateful for this opportunity and our board can’t wait to show you what MCSA has to offer, so feel free to come along to our upcoming events to meet some likeminded people!
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GRACE HAWKE
MARKETING MANAGERKia Ora, I’m Grace! I’m a second year Communication Studies student, currently majoring in Marketing with a double minor in Strategic Management and Communication Design. MCSA has done so much for my studies! I love the networking opportunities made available through MCSA and the chance to gain further experience in my field of study. I will be the Marketing Manager for MCSA and look forward to sharing content with you very soon!
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OLIVIA MURRAY
COMMUNICATIONS ManagerHey everyone, I'm Liv and I am stoked to have landed the role of Communications Manager for MCSA. I am currently a second year communications student working towards a Bachelor of Communication Studies, double majoring in marketing and public relations. I’m a northlander and when I’m not studying, you’ll most likely find me at the beach! I absolutely love my degree and cannot wait to be a part of everything that MCSA has to offer over the next part of the year!
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EMILY BOYLE
EVENTS MANAGERHi!! I'm Emily, MCSA’s 2021/2022 Events Manager. I'm a first year communications student, majoring in Public Relations and Sociology. When I'm not studying, I enjoy spending time with friends and cooking up a storm in the kitchen. I'm looking forward to being on the MCSA board this year to gain insight on the communications world in an open and friendly environment. I'm excited to see where this MCSA board goes throughout the year and those who are interested in communications should come along for the ride.
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KASEY FULLER
SECRETARY/TREASURERKia ora! I'm Kasey, a fourth year conjoint student completing my LLB/BCS majoring in law and public relations. When I'm not hitting the library you'll often find me at the beach hanging out with family and friends. I love travelling and meeting new people and visiting new places. I'm looking forward to utilising my degrees in a career that will open pathways to travel and helping others. I'm excited to be on the board in the secretary role and treasurer.
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2020/2021 MCSA Board
Teri Dawson
President
I am a second year BCS student working towards a double major in Public Relations and Strategic Management. When I’m not studying, I love catching up with my friends and getting outdoors. I am so excited to be taking on the Presidential role for the coming year and seeing where this outstanding board goes. I believe Communications is all about getting excited to meet and connect with like minded individuals and hope to bring this enthusiasm into my time on the board. Anyone who is interested in a career in comms should definitely keep an eye out for what’s in store!
Riley Malins
Vice presidentMy second time round at Uni I’m studying a Bachelor of Business majoring in Public Relations and Strategic Management. When I’m not hitting the books you can usually find me at your nearest beach scoping out the surf or deep in nature getting my bushwalk on. I’m an aspiring writer, hustler and NBA analyst. Whatever you’re studying MCSA is a great opportunity to break into the comms industry. We have some great events and speakers lined up for you. Come along, you may just find your golden ticket.
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Taryn Farr
Co-Communication ManagerI’m a second-year student and only this year added Public Relations to my degree. I’m passionate about both arts and sport; in my spare time, I work at a theatre part-time and play netball for the uni. I’m excited to be one of the Communication Managers for MCSA. Already it has been so cool to meet students and facilitate connections with those already in the industry through this club. I look forward to seeing the direction MCSA goes in this year, and I hope that we can provide people with opportunities to move forward in the communications industry.
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Lainey Li
Co-Communication ManagerI’m doing a Master of Management Studies, majoring in Public Relations. I came to NZ two years ago, so I’m new yet not that new here. My hobbies are reading and travelling. Novels are the reading that I enjoy most of the time, especially mystery novels. I also like to go visiting different places and view different sceneries. As the co-communication manager, my role is to facilitate communication between MCSA and external parties to organise networking activities. I’m thrilled to be a member of this excellent team. Hope we can make MCSA the best friends of students.
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Felicity Klein Ovink
Marketing ManagerI am currently in my second year studying towards a BCS, double majoring in Marketing and PR. You’ll usually catch me at the op-shops getting bargains or enjoying the sunshine when Hamilton provides it. I’m excited for this opportunity to be a part of the board and help students gain valuable experiences in the professional world. My role as Marketing Manager is to keep you up to date with the events we have planned throughout the trimester. I feel privileged to be working alongside my fellow board members, paving a way for a successful career in communications.
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Greer steele
Event ManagerThis year is my second year studying towards a BCS degree (I’m halfway there!), I’m double majoring in Public Relations and Marketing. Not sure what I want to be when I grow up ... but I love planning events. Luckily I’m the event manager for MCSA this year! I’m super thankful to be part of the MCSA team, I can’t wait to support other students and help them network their potential careers. In my spare time you’ll catch me watching Tik Toks, cooking or going on adventures. I’m looking forward to meeting like minded students, so please say hi or come along to our next event!
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Mary Grant
AdministratorI am a second year working towards a BMS hons, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Human Resource Management. When I’m not studying you can find me with friends, baking, bush walking or at the beach! I’m excited to gain an insight into the communications world and to help students build connections with professionals in the industry over the next year.
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2019/2020 Board
Olivia neill
PresidentI am a first year working towards a BBus, majoring in PR and Strategic Management, alongside a tennis coaching qualification. I enjoy everything including the arts, sports, food and especially travel. Personally I enjoy discovering what opportunities can arise from making connections. Communication has the ability to provide a platform of success, knowledge, and experiences. A platform that I am aiming to build as MCSA President for all communications, marketing and PR students.
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Olivia Kerbers
Vice PresidentI am currently studying a BCS majoring in PR and Digital Business. I am super passionate about communications and am so excited to be on the MCSA board! When I am not at uni, I like to dance, take long naps and cook good food. I’m an outgoing, organised and hard-working person, just like all of the other members, so I cannot wait to see what opportunities we can arrange for all communications, marketing and PR students over the next year.
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Rahia Walker
Communications ManagerI’m a first year student studying a BCS majoring in PR and Strategic Management. I love a good wine and have a loud laugh that has actually had noise control called on me. I’m 100% driven toward a career in communications and always seek innovative ways to move in this industry. I want for all of us to have that amazing career and be our best professional selves! So, I will be here to help facilitate that as Communications Manager.
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Bridget Crabb
Marketing ManagerCurrently, I am in my first year and studying a BCS majoring in Public Relations. I am super excited to be a part of this years MCSA board as I pride myself on empowering and helping others. Therefore, being able to work with an amazing group of students and act as a bridge between real life work and university study is something I am looking forward to. Other than studying, you can most likely catch me spending time with friends and family, at the beach or eating out. Despite these hobbies, acting as Marketing Manager for MCSA will be a privilege and one of my main priorities for the. next year. Exciting stuff.
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Kate Gore
Events ManagerI’m currently in my first year of studying towards a BCS majoring in Public Relations and minoring in Tourism and Hospitality Management. When I’m not studying or helping out with MCSA I’m usually out socialising and making the most of my time I have free. In my short time of only less than a year of being a part of MCSA, it has already paved so many opportunities for me to gain knowledge and experience in the field of communications. With some insight on what we have planned for this coming year, I am excited to see the different opportunities we can provide for all MCSA members.
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Simon Forster
Secretary/TreasurerI am studying a BCS majoring in Marketing and Digital Business. I’m pretty laid back and like to live in the day-to-day. I want to help others succeed, and I believe that every perspective is valuable. With this being said, I want only the best for everyone involved with MCSA so we can all make the most of the opportunities we have. We’re all just people trying to live our best lives. I look forward for what’s to come.
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