Governance

Lorraine Johnston – President & Treasurer

Lorraine has been a bank officer, a university lecturer and a Librarian in a long and varied career. She has had considerable experience serving on and chairing committees during her work and non-work life. In recent years she has been Secretary for The Friends of the Globe Theatre,  President of the Dunedin Public Library Association (Friends of the Library)  and served on the committee for Swing Riot swing dance community.

Lorraine has served on the MS Otago committee since 2021 and has been President since 2022.

Ashley Jolly – Vice President

I joined the Otago Multiple Sclerosis Society committee in 2024 and currently serve as Vice President. Living with multiple sclerosis, I bring both lived experience and professional expertise to the role.

I am a former Dunedin business owner with over 10 years’ experience in financial services. Through this work, I developed skills in governance, financial oversight and strategic planning, which I now contribute to supporting the Society’s direction and sustainability.

As a wife and mother, I understand that MS affects not only the individual but the wider family. I hope to help strengthen support, advocacy and connection for people living with MS across Otago.

Rebekah Blakemore, PhD

Rebekah is a Dunedin-based health professional with a background in movement neuroscience and over fifteen years’ experience working across health, analytics, and research environments. Her work has focused on neurological conditions, with an emphasis on understanding how they affect the brain and behaviour. 

Currently a Senior Data Scientist at ACC, Rebekah supports evidence-informed decision-making across the health system. She brings strong analytical and advisory skills, along with a collaborative and thoughtful approach to supporting people and communities.

Rebekah joined the MS Otago Executive Committee in 2026 and is passionate about contributing to the Society’s work in supporting people living with multiple sclerosis across Otago.

Robert Galvin

Robert Galvin is a former Royal Navy Submarine Service engineer who now works in local government, focusing on infrastructure and strategic programme delivery that supports sustainable and inclusive communities.

He brings experience from central government and private sector consulting, contributing to complex, multi-agency programmes. Living with Multiple Sclerosis gives Robert a personal perspective on accessibility, resilience, and inclusive practice.

He holds an MBA from Victoria University of Wellington and is a Chartered Member of Engineering New Zealand.

Ria Knoef

Shortly after I was born, my mum was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Growing up alongside her experience gave me firsthand insight into the challenges MS brings not only to the individual, but also to their family. Mum’s strength, resilience, and love of life inspire me every day.

I moved to Dunedin in 2022 to study at the University of Otago, where I completed a BSc(Hons) in Genetics. I am now undertaking a PhD in Genetics, researching the genetic basis of a rare neurodevelopmental disorder.

I have seen the positive impact that the advocacy, support, and sense of community that organisations such as MS Otago bring have had on my mum. It is therefore a privilege to serve on the MS Otago committee, and I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people affected by MS.

Mel Hogue

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Allan Teviotdale

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