New Chapter, Familiar Face: Kris Dempster-Rivett Steps In as DFA’s GM
Kris and Bronnie have worked on handing over the reigns during July 2025.
Welcome back, Kris! What drew you back to Digital Future Aotearoa after your time away?
Bronnie (the current GM), Vic (long-time DFA Board Chair) and I have always remained connected in other mahi so it kind of feels like I never really left. Even jumping in on the Monday morning kaimahi hui it felt like I was only gone a month or two.
So, what draws me back to this awesome kaupapa? The people, the mahi they do and who we mahi for.
You’ve been part of the DFA whānau before, in a Co-GM role. What feels different about stepping into the GM role this time?
Good patai, time will tell, I guess, but I will definitely miss having my mate Bronnie alongside me doing the mahi, but excited about the opportunity of working with Kelsey and working with the team again.
DFA has been busy while you’ve been away, from RAD milestones to growing our outreach in Ōtautahi. What part of our mahi are you most excited to get stuck into?
Working with the community again and getting back into the tech education scene is always exciting for me.
Obviously, a challenging time for not-for-profits and charities at the moment with the funding climate and issues around long-term sustainability. So I’m hoping to bring some of my experience and learnings in these spaces to help DFA build towards the future.
“So, what draws me back to this awesome kaupapa? The people, the mahi they do and who we mahi for. ”
You’ve seen the digital equity landscape evolve over the past few years. Where do you see the biggest opportunities and challenges are for Aotearoa right now?
The biggest challenge is probably also our biggest opportunity. With the decline in government funding and support for digital inclusion and education, we have the opportunity to build out a community-led response to addressing the digital divide.
When government funding is present, there are always a plethora of digital equity experts and digital inclusion initiatives that either create a centralised approach (one size fits all model) or a fragmented ecosystem where everyone fights for a slither of the funding pie.
So, we are able to build what we want, how we want, and then inform funders as to how they can invest in this in the future. To put it simply, everybody has their role and as long as you remain in your lane and deliver on your role, things should work out as planned and our mission will be outworked.
Our kaupapa is all about empowering tamariki, rangatahi, and communities with digital skills. What does that mission mean to you personally?
Digital skills, like any skills, are developed the more you do them. Everyone has a starting point and a trajectory to what they can achieve, but you need the right tools and equipment to harness and develop those skills. The best part about that process is just being a part of it, whether that is supporting people through the skills learning and development or providing the appropriate tools.
Nothing beats the moment when you see someone surpass their own expectations of what they thought they could do.
DFA is known for collaboration, with educators, industry, and the community. How do you plan to strengthen those relationships in your new role?
I think this is an excellent time to build on the awesome work Bronnie and kaimahi have done for a number of years now, and continue to give time and support to those relationships that have already developed. Then we’re able to share the story of what these relationships have and can do in the future. Other people will be drawn to the mahi and the kaupapa.
Let’s get to know the person behind the title — what’s one fun fact or hobby that helps keep you grounded outside of work?
Don’t tell the local sports clubs or parents, but I do enjoy coaching sports teams (especially my own kids sports teams).
When I think back to those who inspired me, it was either my coaches or my teachers who helped push me to strive to be better and to be a better team player.
Finally, what’s your message to the DFA community as you step back into this role?
I’m passionate about building equitable futures and at DFA, we’re doing just that through digital education. I’m excited to keep growing this movement with our community and kaimahi.
During this time, we’re reflecting on the incredible vision, growth, and relentless dedication Bronnie gave during her five-year tenure as GM. DFA is also excited to step into the next chapter and we’d love for you to join us.
Connect with Kris and the team on our LinkedIn page or send us an email at team@digitalfutureaotearoa.nz
