Kiya Survivors - Volunteers

Suzy Butler
Founder and Managing Director of Kiya Survivors
suzy@kiyasurvivors.org

Suzy was born in Brighton in the UK and has been living in Peru for 7 years. She founded Kiya Survivors in 2001 when she was just 22 years old and continues to direct the projects and act as president for the charity.

“I love my work! Every day holds a new challenge and smile for me. The staff are dedicated and the kids are a joy to be around. It was hard getting Kiya set up as children with special needs are still seen as a curse from God by many here in Peru and are hidden and abused as a result. The children’s smiling faces today make all the battles and hard work so worth it!”

Jose was born in Lima. He started working with Kiya 4 years ago when plans for Mama Cocha were being made. He now assists Kiya with maintenance and building plans onsite at the projects.

“Before I met Suzy or became involved in Kiya Survivors I never realized the problems that existed in my country or was at all interested in helping children with special needs. Kiya changed all that! Now, my work is my life and I want to open peoples eyes to the problems we are facing here.”

Janet is an artist and Suzy's mother and has been involved in Kiya from the beginning when it was a kitchen table and a phone line! She often visits Peru and her moral and practical support has been invaluable. We couldn't do it without her.

Corinna is half-Peruvian, an ex Volunteer Coordinator and an enthusiastic and committed supporter of Kiya Survivors. She is delighted to be involved, "once you become part of the Kiya family you're there to stay!"

Pip has recently joined the Kiya team, working as the UK Co-ordinator. She will be looking after the volunteers and training them in the UK before they depart for Peru. She will also be helping with various other aspects of running the UK office including events and fundraising. Pip is from Brighton originally and is looking forward to settling back in Brighton and working with Kiya after some time spent travelling.

Abbie was a volunteer for Kiya at The Rainbow Centre in 2006. Her passion and dedication to the project has led her to continue as a volunteer in the UK. She is assisting in fund raising events and volunteer training weeks.

Patricia Ashwell
Trustee/Treasurer
patricia@kiyasurvivors.org

Patricia was born in Glasgow, Scotland. She is interested in education, dementia care, philosophy and the development of personal and spiritual potential. She has been watching Kiya's progess since its inception and is delighted to provide a more supportive role.