Hannah Pia Baral
Kaiwhakahaere Matua | Chief Executive Officer
Hannah was born in the Philippines and immigrated to New Zealand with her family in the late 80’s. Since earning a BA in English and Politics and an MA in Politics from the University of Auckland, her career path has seen her take on a variety of leadership roles in the health and education sectors in both New Zealand and Australia. During her 14 years in Australia she also earned her MBA from the University of Newcastle, and held volunteer roles with a number LGBTIQA+ organisations, including a board position and expert advisory roles.
Hannah has a wealth of adult education sector experience. Along with past roles with ACE Aotearoa, she has completed ASPBAE's Basic Leadership Development Course (BLDC) and maintained connections with ASPBAE for over a decade.
Hannah has gained recognition for her exceptional skills in transforming and modernising organisations, spearheading strategic change, successfully collaborating with government agencies and funders, and growing strong workplace cultures. It is with great excitement that she returns to New Zealand and ACE Aotearoa, to continue supporting a sector she is very passionate about.
Email: hannah.baral@aceaotearoa.org.nz
Tai Samaeli
Pou Ako | ACE Sector Capability Manager
Tai Samaeli brings over 25 years of experience across early childhood, primary and tertiary education, with a strong focus on adult and community education, professional development and sector capability building.
As ACE Sector Capability Manager at ACE Aotearoa, Tai leads professional learning initiatives that strengthen teaching practice, support organisational development and build capability across the ACE sector. An experienced educator and facilitator, he designs and delivers engaging workshops, brings educators and organisations together, and supports the sharing of knowledge and effective practice throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
Tai's approach is grounded in inclusive, learner-centred education and the values of rangatiratanga, manaakitanga, whanaungatanga and ako. He brings experience in governance, organisational leadership and community engagement, with a particular strength in connecting people across diverse cultures, communities and educational settings.
With a strong interest in technology, artificial intelligence, communications and the performing arts, Tai brings creativity and innovation to his work. He is passionate about making professional learning practical, accessible and relevant, empowering educators and organisations to respond confidently to the changing needs of adult learners and their communities.
Email: tai@aceaotearoa.org.nz
Vivienne Reti
Kaiwhakahaere Tari | Office Manager (Ngātiwai)
Vivienne comes from the small Northland town of Whangaruru and has worked in administration for eight years mostly in Auckland. She has also worked in sales and hospitality. Her first involvement with the ACE sector was in 2015 when she supported the team at the Hui Fono. She now runs the busy ACE Aotearoa office and supports the wide range of events that make up the ACE calendar. This year Viv is continuing to learn te reo.
Email: vivienne.reti@aceaotearoa.org.nz
Adele and Kenzo
Finance
Kenzo has more than 10 years experience in business, financial support and accounting. She has a Business degree with a double major in Accounting and Finance. Previous roles have been with Quotable Value, Vehicle Testing New Zealand, Public Trust and other private companies. Kenzo joined ACE Aotearoa in late 2019 and is working with Adele in the finance team.
Adele has worked in banking, the public service, large multinationals, and medium and small New Zealand companies. Over the last 10 years she has specialized in accounting and auditing for small not for profit organisations. Adele has a NZCC (Public Administration) and is a qualified accountant. Both of these qualifications were earned whilst working full time and have given her a strong belief in practical, post-school, lifelong learning. In order to maintain her professional status, Adele is continuing her learning journey.
Email: finance@aceaotearoa.org.nz
Analiese Robertson
Executive Officer Business Development (AA Focus Ltd)
Analiese Robertson has been seconded to the position of Executive Officer Business Development with ACE Aotearoa Focus Ltd (AA Focus), the organisation’s subsidiary company. Analiese has held the positions of Professional Development and Networks Manager, and Director for ACE Aotearoa for 13 years following two years as a co Chair to the Board. She is a current Director for AA Focus Ltd. She comes with considerable governance and strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement and reputation, with attested business acquisition record of securing long serving external contracts and grants.
Email: analiese.robertson@aceaotearoa.org.nz