Team Member Profile:

Lorraine Sheenagh

Chairperson
Lorraine Sheenagh is the Chairperson of the Restorative City Whanganui Trust

Lorraine (she/her) is a queer, autistic leader committed to kotahitanga - collective responsibility - and community-led transformation. She brings a strong social justice lens and a deep belief in values-based leadership to her role as Chair of the Restorative City Whanganui Trust.

Her lived experience navigating intersecting identities has shaped her understanding of how privilege, marginalisation, and community response impact wellbeing. These insights drive her work to dismantle systemic barriers and create inclusive, equitable spaces where people feel safe, heard, and able to belong.

Lorraine is passionate about the restorative city vision - where restorative justice and restorative practices shape not just conflict resolution, but the ways we live, relate, and care for one another. She values clear boundaries and strong organisational foundations that support both safety and creativity.

In her governance role, Lorraine works collaboratively to foster connection, reduce power imbalances, and uphold the Trust’s vision for a more just, relational, and restorative Whanganui. Her leadership is grounded in authenticity, accountability, and a deep ethic of care - for people, communities, and future generations.

She believes that when we centre relationships, we build stronger communities - and that everyone deserves to be seen, valued, and supported to thrive.