Big welcome to Lillian!
Tell us about your role:
The Wellbeing Facilitator manages and supports Sanctuary and Rangers internal to Kiwiburn, and external teams Know Your Stuff, Medics and Consent Club.
What made you want to volunteer for a year round role?
Kiwiburn has brought so much joy and positive connection to my life. It’s been really transformative. I can give back to the community I love, and get even more out of it by being more involved. It sounds naff but I really am passionate about mental health in any context. It’s what holds everything else together.
And what would you say to anyone considering it? Come on in, we don’t bite, I promise!
When you’re not doing KB stuff, how do you spend your time?
I’ve just had the most fantastic experience living in London for six months. I went to three burns there, learned a lot about different ways to do what we do. I also went to a lot of parties, theatre, and made a lot of friends. Now I’m back home with my awesome household and our dog.
How did you get involved with Kiwiburn?
I mentioned in passing to a friend that I might be interested in going. Seemingly within minutes they had whipped me up a ticket and a theme camp. Best week ever.
What’s your favourite thing about being part of this amazing community?
The sense of connection, assuming the best of people and being proven right, the joy of sharing our creativity with each other, living (somewhat) by the principles.
What’s your favourite Paddock moment?
My first effigy burn and it was late starting. The fire spinners had been waiting to come on for a few hours and it was pretty dark. The music started up, ghostly and majestic, and the fire spinners poured into the circle. Most of them were mostly naked and they looked like an army from Lord of the Rings. The fire safety lead was still dressed from working elsewhere and spun fire in front of them, looking exactly like a General leading their army. With that and the music it was absolutely magical.
What skills have you learned by being involved with Kiwiburn?
I wanna say something soppy about loving everyone. How to deliver a lip balm workshop designed for 8 people, with no electricity, to 28 people, mostly kids. How to dance on rough grass. How to mediate objectively between people I care about.
What are you most excited about for Kiwiburn 2026?
Seeing my teams being their best selves. Running naked around the fire.
