Issue 29: Looking Back to See Forward | Ava & Flynn Eldridge

We reached out to some of our past contributors to see how things have been going since they last shared their stories with us. They shared what has changed and where things are heading next.

A big thank you to Dr Dan Peters, Heather Down, Dan Colquhoun and Sharon Scurr for taking the time to record a short ‘selfie’ update and for continuing to contribute to conversations that matter to the dyslexia and neurodivergent community.

After listening to these updates, one thing is clear. Progress doesn’t happen all at once. It happens when people keep showing up, keep learning and keep trying.

Dr Dan Peters

At the end of 2024, Dan finished his podcast Parent Footprint with Dr Dan. In the new year, he started a new podcast called Make It a Great One with Dr Dan. This podcast focuses on hope, connection and meaningful conversations that help people be better versions of themselves and make a positive impact on the world.

Dan continues his work at the Summit Center and has also moved into leadership coaching. He believes we need more leaders who lead with honesty, authenticity and care.

His message is that everyone has potential and possibilities. He encourages people to be themselves, to show up as their authentic selves and to bring what makes them unique into the world.

Heather Down

Since writing for Dystinct Magazine in 2023, Heather Down from Love Literacy in New Zealand has been very busy. In 2024, she presented at two Sharing Best Practice conferences in New Zealand, where she spoke about dyslexia. In 2025, she received the Nessy Science of Reading Teacher of the Year Award.

Heather also shared that her card game YEET, which started as a small idea to support learners through play, has grown into 14 card packs that help teach spelling, from early words through to more complex spellings. She also worked with her friend Tiana to create a Māori version of YEET.

In 2025, Heather launched a podcast called Love Literacy Inspired, where she shares real stories about literacy and learning. She continues tutoring children and supporting families across New Zealand. Heather’s message is that progress looks different for every learner and that every small step matters.