We are excited to introduce the Diabetes Lived Experience Forum Rōpū, a diverse group of individuals whose personal journeys with diabetes will help contribute to the work of Diabetes NZ. The Forum was formed to ensure that lived experience is woven into everything we do. Their role is to ensure that the voices of those living with diabetes help inform our work and drive meaningful change.

Rōpū values:

Kaupapa Whānau: whānau are the reason for our mahi
Kotahitanga: working together for a common goal
Whanaungatanga: valuing our connections
Synergy: partnering to amplify change
Respect: operating with and advocating for respect across all experiences

Meet Our Members

Each member brings a unique perspective shaped by their own journey with diabetes.

Bruce Foggo, Devonport

Kia ora I am Bruce Foggo, a retired medical practitioner with 40 years’ experience in general practice and palliative medicine. I have had diabetes for some 25 years. Initially I was diagnosed with type 2 at age 50 but after several years and rapid progression, diabetic antibody testing confirmed type 1.5 - also known as Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA). I have been on insulin for 15 years and am currently using Lantus and Novorapid insulins.

I put myself forward for the Lived Experience Forum hoping to contribute with my professional interest and background in diabetes management and my personal experience of living with diabetes for 25 years. I am married with three adult children and six grandchildren. I live in Devonport. Outside of family activities I am a hobby beekeeper, I play a very average game of lawn bowls, and I am testing my intellect and stamina by trying to learn to play bridge.

Dave Meyers, Wellington

Hi. I’m Dave and I live in Wellington with my wife Kerry. I joined the Lived Experience Forum because I am keen to help ensure we have access to the best/latest treatments, tools and support, which will allow us to live our best lives.

I have been living with type 1 diabetes for 50+ years – I was first diagnosed in 1969 at age 13. I have been a user of DIY Diabetes Tech for some years now, and continue to use AndroidAPS as I feel it provides me with better outcomes than the currently funded Tandem and Ypso systems. I am also a board member of Nightscout New Zealand which helps inform and support those who want to adopt DIY Diabetes technologies.

Outside of Diabetes, I am involved in the Predator Free movement in Wellington, and can be regularly found on the hills around the city checking and servicing traps and baitstations. Other interests include being active in the outdoors, getting together with family, overseas travel and BSA motorcycles. I look forward to working with you all in this forum.

Nick Forrester, Auckland

Hi, I’m Nick. I’m the Finance Manager at the New Zealand Olympic Committee and a passionate footballer - having played on a college scholarship in the US and more recently competing in New Zealand’s National League. I also enjoy playing tennis and golf.

I’ve lived with type 1 diabetes since I was 15, so it’s been a part of nearly half my life. My journey has taken me from adolescence to adulthood, including living abroad and managing diabetes in different environments. I’m keen to bring this perspective to the Lived Experience Forum and to advocate for Kiwis living with diabetes.

I believe it’s important to provide honest feedback on the challenges we face in New Zealand, but also to focus on practical, solution-based ideas. I’m excited about advances in diabetes care - especially technology - and I’m optimistic about what the future holds for our community!

Jaden Hura-White, Bay of Plenty

Mai i Matetū ki Tongariro, mai i te ihu ki te kei. Mai i te Ohomairangi ki waikorohū o Waihī, ki reira e tū tonu ana te whare ariki, ko au kei roto. Tīhei mauri ora! Ko Jaden tōku ingoa. I was born and raised in Te Waiariki (Bay of Plenty), and I carry both Māori (Ngāti Tūwharetoa) and European whakapapa with pride.

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 12. Since then, I’ve become very interested in the advocacy space, bringing forward lived experiences and ensuring feedback is grounded in the real, everyday challenges of managing this condition. I’m a user of diabetes technologies such as a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) and an insulin pump, which have become essential tools in managing my hauora. I’m passionate about Te Reo Māori, Tikanga, Mātauranga Māori, and the protection and wellbeing of our Taiao. And when I get the chance, you’ll find me out on the water as I’m a keen fisherman too!

Komal Morar, Greater Wellington

Hi I'm Komal. I live with type 1 diabetes, and my journey started after I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes during my first pregnancy. At the time, I didn’t realise it would lead to a lifelong condition, but here I am - learning, adapting, and doing my best every day. I’m joining this forum because I care deeply about improving diabetes care, not just for myself, but for others living with it and for their whānau too. I know how overwhelming and isolating it can feel, especially in the early days. I want to be part of something that helps people feel seen, heard, and supported.

I’m based in Wellington and especially committed to raising awareness and improving support for those affected by gestational diabetes. It’s a condition I feel is often misunderstood and underrepresented, and I want to help change that. I’m here to share my experience honestly, to listen with empathy, and to advocate for better outcomes for all of us. I believe in the power of community and collaboration - and I’m keen to work alongside others who are just as passionate about making a difference.

Ramanjot Singh Thiara, Auckland

Hi, I'm Ramanjot and I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 17.

As someone living with type 1 diabetes and working in the medical devices industry, I know first-hand the value and importance of equitable access to quality diabetes care and education. I'm passionate about using my lived experience to advocate for change and contribute to improving diabetes healthcare across Aotearoa New Zealand.

I'm excited to be part of the Diabetes NZ Lived Experience Forum and I look forward to collaborating with others to address the challenges of diabetes and create a positive impact for our diabetes community and beyond.

We’re still welcoming voices, so if you are living with Type 2 diabetes or supporting someone who is? We’d love to hear from you. Please reach out to info@diabetes.org.nz

Diabetes NZ LIved experience forum