Karla Sanders founded Sticks ‘n Stones in 2013 alongside 30 passionate teenagers committed to empowering other young people to understanding the part we all play in stopping bullying.

A Primary trained teacher, Karla spent 8 years overseas in a number of roles from classroom teaching in West Sydney in an Islamic School to working with Local Authorities to integrate Education, Health, Social Care and community groups as part of Extended Schools legislation.

On her return to NZ in 2010, Karla took up a role as a Regional ICT PD Facilitator alongside teaching a One Day School Gifted Programme.

Since 2013, Karla has been the adult that empowers our young people to realise our vision of a Bully Free NZ where EVERY (young) person is accepted and respected for who they are.

Karla is a Google certified Innovator, Vodafone World of Difference fellowship recipient and has been a finalist in the Women of Influence (Education) and NEXT Woman of the year (Community) awards.

She has committed hundreds and hundreds of unpaid hours to growing our organisation and is the ‘glue’ that keeps everything together.