Youth Advisory Panel

Dom is an up and coming theatre-maker currently based in Whakatū Nelson. While studying towards a BA in Theatre, Film and NZSL from Victoria University of Wellington, Dom worked supporting young people with disabilities. In 2021, he performed in the touring show 'Seasons' with Capital E and is now touring the country with Duffy Books in Homes. He is passionate about instilling children with wonder and play, and wants young people not to be afraid to question how the world works. Dom is vegan and loves animals, especially his tabby cat named Susan.

Anika has recently finished studying a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Drama and Sociology, at the University of Auckland. Her journey with the performing arts started through dancing and singing, while being involved with Tauranga Musical Theatre. While at university, she transitioned from performing into production management. In her final year, she was an executive committee member for the UoA Drama club, Stray Theatre Company. She has also worked as a Stage Manager and Assistant Stage Manager for the Theatre of Love and Prayas Theatre. Anika believes that the performing arts can be a safe place for children to explore their feelings and identity, just as she did as a child. She is very excited to be part of the PAYPA Youth Advisory Panel.

Louise began dancing at the age of 3, and her love for the performing arts has only grown since then. She has studied BAL Ballet and Tap, and NZAMD Tap and Jazz, with experience in Latin and ballroom, and aerial arts. Louise is an experienced choreographer and has been involved with the Auckland musical theatre community for a number of years. Louise teaches dance throughout the week at various studios and preschools. Her passion is teaching those with disabilities in an attempt to break down barriers and stigmas within the performing arts community. Louise is currently studying a Masters of Dance Movement Therapy at Auckland University.

Jamie Yee is currently studying towards a conjoint BA(Hons) in Theatre and LLB at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. Jamie sees theatre as a vessel for accessible and universal storytelling. He is currently the director of Encounter - a show at BATS as a part of the Six Degrees Festival. Encounter explores the experience and identity of early and modern Chinese New Zealanders in Aotearoa by way of a narrative walking tour through Wellington’s historical Chinatown. Combining his two interests in law and theatre, Jamie is passionate about arts governance and is excited for the opportunity to make change in the Arts while on the PAYPA Youth Advisory Panel.