Hi, my name is Olivia Adie, and I am honoured and excited to be your Kaitiaki o Ara/SADD Youth Representative for 2026.

For me SADD has been my area of joy and focus as a national leader in 2023 & 2024 and I am grateful to be continuing into this next phase of my journey with the organisation. This role is going to be filled with new challenges and opportunities to continue reaching those who are using our roads.

I am in my second of five years studying both law and biomedical sciences degrees at Otago University. This year I am also the vice president for the Student Volunteer Army Club at the university and heavily involved with the debating team, hockey squad and Engage Christian group. I like to stay busy with all of that and playing many instruments while volunteering at my church. I am pleased to welcome Hannah on board for the 2026 season and look forward to engaging once again with the whole SADD community.

Check out this article about Olivia’s SADD journey and her research on distracted driving in youth

Olivia Adie

Road Safety Hero Award

In 2026, Olivia was recognised nationally for her contribution to youth road safety, receiving the Youth category Road Safety Hero Award during Road Safety Week.

The award celebrates young people who are leading projects or initiatives that make a positive difference to road safety outcomes and who are influencing their peers, raising awareness, and driving change within their communities.

As part of her SADD National Leader project, Olivia explored the neuroscience behind why young people choose to text and drive, and how social pressure influences decisions behind the wheel. Her work has helped contribute to important conversations around youth behaviour, decision-making, and safer choices on our roads.

This award recognises Olivia’s ongoing commitment to youth leadership, peer education, and creating positive change.