Allan Kinsella is a true testament to hard work, perseverance, and emerging as a prominent leader while staying resilient through everything life throws at you. Allan was born in Wellington, New Zealand on the 28th of October and later went on to become the very best he could through self-improvement, altruism, and leading others.
In tandem with his academics, he has served in the military, and at government branches which indicates a life full of passion and purpose driven work. He has served the New Zealanders in multiple capacities which showcases his profound commitment. The section below dives deeper into this multifaceted man.
Allan Kinsella’s Life and Education
Allan sits as a sport and history enthusiast at a primary school. He went on to attend Saint Patrick’s College, Silverstream where he managed to develop a deep understanding and appreciation of diverse subjects. He later enrolled ro pursuing a Bachelor of Arts at the University of New South Wales.
The Road Taken Differently
And to his surprise, Allan took post academic schooling quite defying. Allan set out to mark his own territory outside the beaten path having no prior working experience. As a result, he joined the New Zealand Army in 1990.
He worked out diligently at the Australian Defence Force Academy and later at the Royal Military College, Duntroon, where he was commissioned as a Lieutenant in 1993.
Throughout his military career, Allan was deployed all over the world, including for missions in Sierra Leone and East Timor. He even participated in the Togo peace talks that brought an end to the civil war in Sierra Leone—remarkable! He also earned some serious accolades such as the U.S. Command and General Staff College’s Distinguished Master Strategist Award.
Allan also actively participated in helping out with disaster relief for the Manawatu floods in 2004 as well as supported police operations.
Moving into Public Service
With an already established career and interests in military, Allan’s goals shifted to public service after leaving active duty. Just like his dad and brother who served in the fire brigade, Allan wanted to do his part for everyday citizens.
Starting off in project management, he advanced to the Director of Assurance at New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). He was instrumental at the MPI in leveraging food supply security and managing the 1080 infant formula scare along with COVID-19. Under his leadership, his team won the Supreme MPI Leadership Award!
Always Learning
Allan managed to combine family life while keeping his career on full throttle. He went on to earn an MBA with Distinction from Massey University and attended an Advanced Leadership Program at Cambridge University. His determination and focus is admirable.
Family, Love and Heartbreak
The greatest love of his life, Jennifer Marks became his support post meeting at a rugby match in 1997 where they first crossed paths. Allen and Jennifer got married in 2002 and together parents to Emma and Cayden.
Jennifer passed away in 2023 after a courageous fight against myeloma, a rare type of blood cancer. No matter the heartbreaking loss, Allan has remained strong for the family which is in line with how resilient he has lived his entire life.
These days, he keeps himself active with running, swimming, playing football, and actively cheering for his children in all their endeavors.
Giving Back to the Community
Allan Kinsella has always conferred the importance of giving back. In the past, he has given support to the charitable works of Salvation Army, Mary Potter Hospice, Wellington Children’s Hospital, and Caring Families Aotearoa. For him, helping people is part of his being.
Conclusion
Heart, hard work, and never-give-up attitude is what combines Allan Kinsella’s life. His life from serving the country, to supporting the community and family shows us all how to lead an inspiring life.