Mel (they/them) is a transmasculine non-binary Pakeha, currently living in Horowhenua. Mel was already a member of the rainbow community when they came out transgender in 2017. After finding the health system lacking and traumatising as a trans person, Mel was motivated to become a Registered Nurse (RN) to try and help make things better for others.

At present Mel works as a casual Rainbow Education Facilitator and a part-time RN for Te Whatu Ora Midcentral. Mel is passionate about advocacy and LGBTTQI+ education for Health Professional which led to the decision to become involved in research projects.