We were created from the love that three brothers had for their little sister.
“We wanted Rosa to have the same excitement that we enjoyed when heading out with our friends - the thrill of meeting new people, dancing and laughter on the horizon.”
With this vision in mind, they founded their not-for-profit organisation and have been organizing dance events ever since.
Their goal is to create an inclusive environment where individuals with ‘unique abilities’ can feel confident and empowered.
Through music and dance, they hope to break down barriers and provide an opportunity for everyone to be included and have fun.
Join us in supporting this wonderful cause and help spread the joy of dance to those who enjoy it the most.
Jono, Daniel, and Callum Hopkirk - three brothers who were inspired to create a charity that brings joy and fun to (dis)abled individuals through dance events.
Their inspiration came from their beloved little sister Rosa who has Down Syndrome.
Being a part-time DJ and having been involved in organising events, Jonathan often took Rosa along with him for a night out and to help him spin the decks, which she absolutely loved. The crowd also absolutely loved her energy and she always gets the crowd going.
As they watched her grow and navigate a world that was not always accommodating to her needs, they saw the importance of creating a safe space where she and others like her, could truly let their guard down and have a good time.
Since then the DFA has expanded into two locations:
Auckland 🥝
Sydney 🦘
Meet the team
Founder of DFA
Jonathan is a Medical Doctor by trade. He is one of four siblings. His older sister Rosa has Down Syndrome, which is the driving force behind Jonathan’s commitment to changing the game for people like Rosa all over the world.
Originally from New Zealand, Jonathan now resides in Sydney, NSW. Outside of work he is a keen DJ and has placed much focus on building up the Dance For Abilities platform.
Jonathan’s vision is to launch DFA in other cities nationally with the ultimate goal of spreading globally. He wants to raise awareness about the positive impact that people like his sister has on a community and the world at large.
Jono Hopkirk
Director - New Zealand
Daniel runs Crave, his own Communications and events agency in Auckland, New Zealand. Daniel’s passion stems from the opportunity to use his skill set to create events and experiences for people like Rosa all over the world. The joy and happiness that Rosa gets from dancing and interacting with other like-minded people with intellectual disabilities is a driving force for launching the New Zealand chapter of DFA.
Daniels career started in New Zealand with Red Bull, before travelling abroad to really broaden his marketing skill set globally. Following a tenure in the United Kingdom, Daniel moved to Australia where he ignited his love of delivering world class experiences through Virgin Australia Airlines and more recently Urban Purveyor Group in hospitality. Daniel wants to focus his expertise and create experiences for people with intellectual disabilities to bring them happiness in New Zealand.
Daniel Hopkirk
Director
Georgina is a brand specialist who is extremely motivated and driven, and possesses a strong ability to execute tasks effectively.
She has a wealth of experience in collaborating with teams to create exceptional brand communications and experiences that are renowned worldwide.
Georgina excels in high-pressure situations and welcomes the opportunity to challenge herself by developing innovative strategies to captivate consumers.
She has worked with a diverse range of global brands across various sectors, such as insurance, banking, FMCG, and luxury brands.
Georgina has also been involved in managing integrated marketing campaigns and special projects for these brands.
Georgina Otto
Jason is an Auckland based General Manager for a Digital Design Agency.
He has held senior leadership positions across many Agencies and has over 20 years experience in Design and Advertising.
A former Creative Director, Brand Director, he also donates his time to judging panels and other charities.
When he's not in the boardroom, you'll find him on the golf course or shooting hoops with his sons.
