Meet The Team

Founder

Filipo Saua

Starting after high school, Filipo was a competitive boxing coach for several years while training
and coaching boxing for young people. These years of working with youth and providing boxing
coaching provided him with tremendous insight regarding boxing and its effects on youth
behaviours. Filipo is currently the Manager of Snapback.
Filipo is a  qualified as a Level  2 Boxing Coach License (NZ Amateur). He is
also a qualified and Current Professional and Corporate Boxing Coach in New Zealand. Filipo is
thus able be able to leverage his passion for using boxing as a vehicle for transformative change
of tamariki, rangatahi and whānau.

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• Certificate in Safeguarding and Child Protection Training (including identifying and responding to child abuse and neglect) through Kiwi Community Child Protection Training

• CPI trained 2024

• Level 2 Boxing Coach

• Suicide Prevention Training

• Certificate in Safeguarding-and-child protection 2024

Founder

Charmaine Saua

Prior to beginning with Snapback Gym, Charmaine spent ten years in the NZ Army then seven years as a qualified teacher teaching High School students.

My purpose in life is to make a difference to our youth. I know this as it runs so deep within me. I believe I have a gift and am confident that with the partnership of Filipo and I, we can saves lives and change the direction to a brighter future.

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• Bachelor of Education

• Certificate in Introduction to Child Counselling

• Certificate to Introduction to Child Psychology

• Certificate Child Safety for Governance and Leadership

• Certificate Safeguarding Children with Disabilities and Additional Needs

• Certificate Safeguarding-and-Child-Protection-Aotearoa

• Qualified Boxing Coach NZ Registered

• Certificate in Health and Fitness

• Diploma in Sports Nutrition

• Certificate in Child Nutrition

• Bachelor or Education - Physical Education Teacher

• Certificate in Adult Education

• NZIM Management Certificate

• NZQA National Certificate in First Line management

• Instructor Certified for De-escaltion and restraint training CPI

• Suicide Prevention Certified

Head Coach and Mentor

Jeremiah Saua

Jeremiah is Filipos son.  "Boxing has been apart of my life from a very young age. I have so much love and passion for the sport, that not only teaches you to defend yourself, but teaches you so much about yourself as a person.

I am here to help guide you in learning the art of boxing and creating a new version of yourself, mentally and physically. I am always here to help in anyway I can.

I offer private boxing sessions for all levels, from learning the basics right to fight fit. Get in contact with me if this is something you are wanting to do."

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• NZ Level 1 Boxing Coach

• Suicide Prevention

• Business management

• Certified in de-escalation and restraint

• ·Certificate in Safeguarding-and-child protection 2024

Coach and Mentor

Iulio Iulio

"Boxing has been a passion of mine since i was a young kid. I have had numerous fights as an amateur and pro. Boxing teaches you so many values and gives you so much confidence to go through life. I am here to share my passion and teach everyone that walks through these doors what boxing has to offer. I am here to help you achieve your goals mentally and physically. Dont hesitate to contact me whenever to get started"

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• Level 4 Youth Worker (currently studying

• NZ Level 1 boxing coach

• Certified in de-escalation and restraint

• Certificate in Safeguarding-and-child protection 2024

Programme Manager and Mentor

Whaea Tanneeka

Whaea is a passionate and dedicated Youth Mentor who plays an integral role in supporting and guiding young people within our community. With a deep commitment to fostering positive growth and development, she work tirelessly to empower youth by providing guidance, encouragement, and a safe space for personal exploration. Whaea brings a unique blend of empathy, active listening, and practical support to all interactions with the young people they mentor. 

With a heart for youth empowerment and a genuine desire to make a positive impact, Whaea goes above and beyond to provide personalized, compassionate support. She  consistently exhibits patience, understanding, and a commitment to seeing each young person thrive. Tanneeka is not only a mentor but also a role model and a trusted advisor, helping young people develop the tools they need to succeed in life.

Whaea is currently studying towards her Level four Youth Worker qualification.

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Mentor and Te Kura Support

Jess Ostick

Jess provides one-on-one mentoring for young people, building trust-based relationships that encourage open communication and personal growth. She works with youth to set and achieve goals with Te Kura, offer emotional support, and help navigate personal and academic challenges.

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In addition to individual mentoring, Jess facilitates group workshops and activities designed to build social skills, self-confidence, and leadership abilities in young wahine.

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Jess is skilled at creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where young people feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and challenges.

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“I believe that every young person has the potential to achieve greatness, and my role is to help them see that potential in themselves. By building strong, supportive relationships, I strive to create an environment where youth can explore their strengths, face challenges with confidence, and grow into resilient, empowered individuals.”

Mentor and Support Staff

Aimee Leader

Aimee is a dedicated and compassionate Learning Support Worker who plays a key role in helping students overcome academic and personal challenges. With a deep commitment to inclusivity and student well-being, she provide tailored support to ensure that each individual can thrive in their learning environment. Aimee brings a patient, positive, and proactive approach to their work, offering guidance, encouragement, and practical assistance to students in both group and one-on-one settings.

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Whether it’s providing academic support, assisting with specific learning needs, or fostering a sense of confidence and independence, Aimee is passionate about empowering students to reach their full potential. She believes that every learner deserves the opportunity to succeed, and she will  work tirelessly to create a supportive, inclusive space where all students feel valued and capable.

Therapy Dog

Sole

Meet Sole, our loving and gentle therapy dog who is an integral part of our team! He brings joy, comfort, and emotional support to the young people we serve, offering a calming presence and a non-judgmental ear whenever needed. Sole is specially trained to interact with youth in a way that helps reduce stress, anxiety, and creates a safe space for emotional expression.

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Whether offering a comforting cuddle, a friendly paw, or simply sitting quietly by a student’s side, Sole provides a soothing presence that helps students feel grounded and supported. He is  particularly helpful during challenging moments, offering unconditional love and companionship that helps youth feel more at ease in their environment.