< Our Team

Susan Merriman

Story Writer

Susan is a “temporary honorary Kiwi” who was lucky enough to be slow traveling in Aotearoa when COVID-19 struck and has continued to enjoy the privilege of being here for the duration. Observing the community mindedness and directly appreciating the kindness of New Zealanders made her want to contribute, but she found it hard to do so while still exploring all the wonderful places around the country.

Working with Volunteer South - Central Lakes, she was delighted to find the role of volunteer profile writer. Even on the move, Susan is able to be a conduit by learning about volunteers and the amazing impact they have in our communities and then transforming that into articles that help raise awareness across the region.

Susan is a born and bred-American who recently left a corporate career in software education leadership where her writing work was much more business oriented (and much less inspiring.) One of her favorite aspects of this opportunity is learning about the diverse volunteer organizations and the unique roles they play in making lives better, coupled with the individual volunteers’ stories. It is endlessly interesting to hear their motivations and rewards. Her hope is that these narratives help others recognize that volunteering could add a spark to their lives as well.