Get to know us!
The WriteSPACE is flourishing with the support of our dedicated team. Take a peek behind the scenes.
Dr Helen Sword, Founder and Director
Helen Sword is a former Professor of Humanities at the University of Auckland, a research affiliate in the Centre for Arts and Social Transformation, a Fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand, and the recipient of several other major research and teaching awards. Her books, articles, and online tools have empowered writers around the world to write more clearly, confidently, prolifically, and with greater pleasure.
Helen hosts writing retreats, immersive programmes and short courses throughout the year for writers of all disciplines. She is regularly invited by institutions from all over the world to present workshops and keynote presentations. You can learn more about Helen’s background and publications here.
Victoria Silwood, Business Manager
Victoria is the Business Manager of the WriteSPACE and looks after all things administration. She also assists Helen with the future planning and direction of the WriteSPACE.
Previously, Victoria co-founded and developed a niche fashion business in Australia that grew to encompass a nationwide distribution network for Italian lingerie and swimwear. Additionally, she has a background in the Not-For-Profit sector, including Soroptimist International and Chamber Music New Zealand. She has a double major in Politics and International Relations and Philosophy from the University of Auckland. Recently, Victoria served on the Board of Trustees at Stardome, Auckland’s observatory and planetarium.
Amy Lewis, Events Manager
As the WriteSpace Events manager, Amy Lewis facilitates various workshops and projects with Helen in the northern hemisphere timezone; she is passionate about the arts, all kinds of writing, and event & project management.
Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts Honours from the University of Auckland, and completed her Master's degree in the History of Modern and Contemporary Art at the University of Edinburgh in 2023. Her research sought to explore the role of creative pedagogies and decolonial methodologies within arts institutions to promote cultural inclusion and social justice. Amy collaborated in the Artist*Academic project developed by Helen and the Centre for Arts and Social Transformation at the University of Auckland. Amy has recently accepted a position in the publishing department of the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.
Dr Richard Sorrenson, Director and Finance Manager
Richard plays an important role at WriteSpace Limited, overseeing all of our financial accounts, future-forecasting, budgeting, and banking.
Richard has extensive financial experience, having worked as General Manager of the University of Auckland Foundation and its endowment fund for 17 years. He now consults for Axiome Investment Consultants in Devonport, Auckland, as well as chairing two not-for-profit boards: Auckland Choral and Auckland Observatory and Planetarium (Stardome).
Hussain Shah Rezaie, Intern
Hussain has been an intern at the WriteSPACE since 2022, undertaking research work in a number of areas, including social media and marketing. Originally from Afghanistan, Hussain spent nearly a decade living in a refugee detention centre in Indonesia before being sponsored to permanent residency in Aotearoa New Zealand by WriteSpace Limited. Hussain arrived in New Zealand in November, 2023, and is flourishing in his new life there. You can read his remarkable story here.
Freddie, Cuddles Manager
Freddie plays an essential role in our team. He is always ready to offer his emotional support and serves as a constant source of cuddles and cute expressions. We love you, Freddie!
Main image credit: Mural by pupils at Mt Cook School, Wellington waterfront