About

Amber Shaw
manager@nzsl4u.com

Manager / Director

Kia ora,

I’m Amber, your guide and enthusiastic advocate for the beautiful language of New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL). It’s a pleasure to connect with you and glimpse my life’s tapestry and the essence of my journey with NZSL.

Rooted in the lush landscapes of Hokianga in the Far North, I took my first steps in a world rich with local lore and the whispers of the wind through the Kauri trees. My academic path weaved through the halls of Okaihau College, eventually leading me to the vibrant corridors of Kelston Girls College in Auckland. It was there, at the tender age of fifteen, that my Deaf identity blossomed like a Pohutukawa in summer, and I eagerly embraced both the language and culture of our Deaf community.

Over the past two decades, my dedication to this vibrant community has been a professional and personal commitment, as I am proud to be the mother of two wonderful Deaf teenagers, Kaiden and Ryley. Their journey with NZSL as their primary language has fueled my enthusiasm for Deaf education and advocacy.

In 2013, my professional odyssey took a decisive turn as I ventured into teaching. This quest for knowledge and empowerment through education culminated in my becoming a certified NZSL tutor, thanks to the esteemed program at Victoria University in 2015. With a heart full of ambition and a vision to empower, I laid the foundation for NZSL4U in the heart of Wellington in late 2016.

When I’m not immersed in the world of sign language and education, I’m often found basking in the serenity of the sun with a delectable cup of coffee in hand or occasionally treating myself to the artful craft of a local beer.

The unforeseen global event of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought challenges. Still, with resilience and innovation, NZSL4U soared into the digital space with online classes that captured the hearts and minds of countless new learners. This surge of interest allowed us to broaden our horizons, welcoming more tutors and extending our reach throughout Aotearoa to nurture the growth of NZSL.

Our alliance with esteemed partners like Capital Training and Training For You has been instrumental. This will enable us to offer ACE funding and make NZSL learning accessible to a broader community.

Embarking on the educational voyage of NZSL with us promises to be a transformative experience, and we are thrilled at the prospect of having you aboard. 

We at NZSL4U await to welcome you into our fold and join you on this enriching journey.

With heartfelt thanks,

Amber

Director, NZSL4U

NZSL Champion Winner

2022

Amber Shaw, founder of NZSL4U, won NZSL Champion at the NZSL Week Awards 2022. She is dedicated to the promotion and awareness of NZSL, providing a way for over 1300 students each year to learn about NZSL. Not only that, her students love the overflowing enthusiasm and charisma she brings to each class. We are so proud of your mahi Amber!

Shannon Morris

NZSL Week Award Winner

At NZSL4U, we are bursting with pride and delight as we celebrate the exceptional achievement of our NZSL teacher, Shannon Morris.

At the 2024 NZSL Awards, Shannon was honoured with the NZSL Teacher of the Year award. Shannon’s dedication to the NZSL community is nothing short of inspirational.

Her tireless efforts in conducting community classes have opened the doors of communication for countless individuals, fostering an environment where everyone can learn and grow. As a master of ceremonies at NZSL camps, Shannon’s vibrant energy and profound knowledge have transformed learning into an experience of joy and camaraderie.

Further extending her impact, Shannon has played a pivotal role in training NZSL teachers and passing on her expertise and passion for our beautiful language. Her contributions are vast, and her influence is profound, touching the lives of many within the NZSL community.

We extend our heartiest congratulations to Shannon on this well-deserved recognition. Her unwavering commitment and exceptional teaching have elevated the standards of NZSL education and enriched New Zealand’s cultural tapestry.

Congratulations, Shannon, from all of us at NZSL4U!

Your award is a testament to your hard work, innovative teaching methods, and boundless dedication to the NZSL community. Here’s to many more years of success and the positive impact you will continue to make in New Zealand Sign Language!

Congratulations to all the winners at the NZSL Awards who have worked diligently to provide accessibility for the deaf community!