Announcing the Appointment of the AYA Cancer Network Aotearoa's New Clinical Lead
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Ellyn Proffit as the new Clinical Lead of the Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Network Aotearoa.
Ellyn brings over 30 years of experience in oncology nursing and has dedicated the past 18 years to supporting adolescents and young adults facing cancer as the Keyworker/Clinical Nurse Specialist for Midland AYA Cancer Services. As the first in this role, Ellyn developed the service from the ground up, forging key connections and leading the establishment of multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of AYAs and their whānau.
Ellyn has been an active member of numerous national advisory groups focused on child, AYA, and Māori experience of cancer, as well as serving in governance and volunteer roles for various cancer-related organisations. Her leadership within the AYA Cancer Network Aotearoa has been considerable, including her involvement in working groups and her role as Chair of the Keyworker Working Group. Her strong focus on collaboration across the sector will enhance the Network’s efforts to improve AYA cancer care and support services.
Ellyn is a passionate advocate for young people, or as she calls them, her bosses. Ellyn completed her Master’s thesis exploring the power of metaphor to help young people navigate and talk about their cancer journey. She is widely respected for this work both in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally.
Ellyn will commence her Clinical Lead role with the Network on Monday 14thApril. This is a part time role, allowing Ellyn to continue to contribute to the Midland AYA Cancer Service and ensure her leadership remains grounded in real-time clinical experience.
Please join us in congratulating Ellyn Proffit on her new leadership role. We look forward to the continued dedication and experience she brings to the AYA Cancer Network Aotearoa as it enters its second decade.
Ngā mihi nui,
Rami Rahal
Tumuaki | Chief Executive
Te Aho o Te Kahu Cancer Control Agency
Dr Richard Sullivan
Chief Clinical Officer
Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora
AYA Cancer Network Aotearoa Governance Group Chair
