Kevin has a strong affinity with Toi Ora not only has he been our Caretaker here at Toi Ora for well over 5 years now and has been a Toi Ora artist for more than ten. Kevin comes with a wealth of experience from working in the music industry, to teaching bible studies, to mediating within the Engineers Union.
“I helped introduce punk rock, new wave in N.Z according to the book “ Stranded in Paradise”, also Ska, and reggae which lead to a career of working and recording with many famous artists from many places around the world including Split Endz and Midnight Oil and a lot of other musicians over the past 47years… I did a 4 year apprenticeship learning to play the drums, read and write music and plenty of experience organising people, music gear, recording and sound systems. I also worked in the sheetmetal industry as a storeman I became a mediator helping all kinds of people who have been disadvantaged in an oppressive system”. (Mediating for the Engineers Union) .
When asked what Kevin would do if he won the lotto he replied: “ I’m too old to enjoy it, so I would put it into good use, a lot would go back into Toi Ora because I see it could be put into good use with buying instruments, a sound proof room, recording gear and some other areas that would benefit members and the staff. I enjoy working at Toi Ora, I am very priviliged to share my experience and share my knowledge as a survivor. My aim is to help others suffering from mental health problems and especially PTSD, to achieve some quality of life again“.
Thank you Kevin for sharing with us. Your skills and expertise are deeply valued by the staff and artists at Toi Ora.
