Dr. Annick Janson is a New Zealand-based clinical psychologist and researcher, focusing on changing the disability sector through family collective leadership. She was awarded a Gallup International Positive Psychology Fellowship. Annick co-founded the evidence-based ‘Now and Next’ positive parenting program in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Europe. She raises a young adult with special gifts.

Clayton Buffoni has a rather diverse past. Former Stage Writer and Director in the UK, Journalist in the Middle East and National Business Development Manager in the Australian and NZ wine industry. Currently, Business Development Consultant to Plumtree Learning. One part of a neurodivergent family of three, a member of the Reframing Disability Board and a Now and Next Alumni member.

Gareth Williams is currently the Director of Family and Children’s Services at the Canadian-based Kinsight Community Society. He’s interested in finding new ways to enhance family engagement and build family leadership in the early childhood intervention sector. When not working, he spends as much time outdoors as he can on his skis, bike or hiking boots.

Mohammed Hussaini's whanau (family) consists of a very supportive wife and 3 amazing children. Though born in India, more than a decade ago we chose New Zealand as our home. Two years ago, our second child was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and we were one of the first families to be enrolled in Now and Next’s NZ program. I work as an IS Architect, and both my wife and I are trained as Now and Next peer facilitators.

Sylvana Mahmic is CEO of Plumtree Australia with 28 years’ experience in the early childhood intervention field. She is co-creator of Now and Next , promotes peer work and has incubated two new peer led organisations. She is completing her PhD on individualised funding and supports her son to self-manage his funding.