Tara Shepherd

Tara Shepherd is a dedicated advocate for disabled individuals, currently serving as a Technical Support Officer for Infrastructure Assets at Buller District Council and holding various leadership roles within organizations focused on disability rights. Elected as Co-President of the National Disabled Students' Association, Tara advocates for students with disabilities in education while also contributing as a General Executive Member. Additional roles include a selected Board Member of the Whakapuāwai Taskforce at New Zealand Health Group and Welfare and Equity Officer for Otago University Students' Association. Tara's influence extends to national levels through participation in the Disabled Persons Assembly NZ and the Te Poutāhū Disability Voices Group under the Ministry of Education. With a Bachelor of Applied Science in Politics and Environmental Management from the University of Otago, Tara combines academic knowledge with practical experience to promote inclusivity and accessibility for disabled individuals.