Remembering Ravi Kolluru

By NZISM Secretary

20/04/2021


It is with a heavy heart that I announce the sudden passing of our dear colleague and friend, Ravi Kolluru.

Ravi was a much loved and respected health and safety professional who was devoted to supporting and volunteering at NZISM. Throughout his career, Ravi took on almost every possible role within our organisation. He was Waikato Branch Manager for four years and joined the national CPD committee, where he delivered the Art of Work Masterclass in 2016, as well as identifying a range of fabulous speakers and topics for webinars and face to face events around the country. He was National Operations Manager for five years and was on the National Executive Committee who oversaw the change of rules in 2019. Ravi was a key player in this project gaining support from members across the country to nationalise the independent branches and welcome in a formal Governance Board and Senior Leadership Team. Most recently Ravi represented NZISM as both a HASANZ Assessor and on the HASANZ Register Working Group, where he fought hard to secure NZISM members access to competencies on the register.

When I first joined NZISM, Ravi was one of the key people who supported and guided me through the history and intricacies of our organisation. I very quickly learned through Ravi’s considered and respectful approach, that his unique perspective was incredibly important, and helped us all to make better and more effective decisions. I came to know Ravi as a trusted colleague who would give me an honest and insightful opinion, and I turned to him often to sound out ideas and gain perspective.

NZISM is a much better organisation for Ravi’s contribution, he was an important advocate of the mahi we do. He was a kaumatua of NZISM, someone whose opinion was valued and respected. He was a quiet man, with a clever mind, who loved his work, his whanau, and the contribution he could make. He will be sadly missed, our thoughts are with his whanau and friends.

We will share details of Ravi's funeral when they are confirmed, so that members who wish to can pay their respects.

Selena Armstrong,

NZISM CEO

You are invited to leave your personal remembrance or message of condolence and these will be passed on to Ravi's family.

I am guttered Ravi. You were an important part of my H&S/NZISM journey. I learnt so much from you while i was on the NZISM Waikato Committee and even after you moved up north. Ravi your cheeky smile and laugh will always stay with me and everything you have taught me. Rest in light my friend. I will have a red wine for you.....

Kim

Dear Ravi, you will be sorely missed. I first meet you when we were completing the Grad. Dip. OHS and attended a contact course in Palmerston North sometime in 2010. You got up in front of the class and gave a rousing speech about this organisation we should all become a part of - who would think it was you, Ravi, that put me on the path to NZISM? My sincerest condolences go out to your family and friends, Ravi. You will indeed leave a gap. God bless

Kathy Cardiff

I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Ravi who was one of the loveliest, kindest supportive people I got to know not only during the 16 months I lived in the Waikato post Chch earthquakes and helped on the NZISM Waikato committee but after that also. I will always appreciate the guidance/mentoring you gave me it will never be forgotten. Rest in peace Ravi I know you will be dearly missed, sending loving thoughts to your family, loved ones and all those who had the privilege to know you.

Sonya Harris

Ravi, what a legacy you leave. I know you will be super proud of the growth and professionalism of the NZISM knowing that you were instrumental in setting the foundation for this success. I will always remember your kind guidance and unique 'Ravi' way of calling a spade a spade. You always had an open door to share some of your wisdom, and that I am grateful for. Rest in peace Ravi, you will be missed!

Darach Cassidy

It’s with a heavy heart that I think of Ravi’s passing. What a tower of strength Ravi has been throughout the years of change and growth that the NZISM has been through..... always there In support and frequently with his special insightful input and practical point of view. Ravi and I often had a coffee and chat when he was in Hamilton especially when his Indian team was playing the black caps.....he was an avid cricket fan with a great sense of humour!!!! God speed my friend and our condolences to those who love you.

Bruce Monkton

Ravi was the most inclusive person I have met in the NZ H&S field. He invited me into the EDI H&S Forum, and I immediately recognised a smart and selfless man. Ravi you will be so deeply missed for all the kind and wise counsel you have given me over the last 7 years.

John Woodrow

Goodbye Ravi, safe on your next journey. Your smile, dry wit and positivity will be sorely missed.

John Beattie

What a loss to both his whanau and to his NZISM and wider H&S family. I had the pleasure of doing my NEBOSH training with Ravi in 2008. We caught up from time to time at conferences, etc and he was always so friendly and cheerful. A real gentleman who will be sadly missed.

Tina Cameron

So sorry to see this. I have been lucky enough to receive gems of advice from you as our paths crossed through our organisations. I thank you for the supportive comments and feedback, you clearly had a genuine desire to see others succeed. Thinking of your family, friends and colleagues at this time.

Cat S

Always a friendly face at the Waikato NZISM meetings a few years back. Sorry to hear of Ravis passing. My condolences to his family.

Lee Powell

Dear reader, I only had the one occasion to work with Ravi and found him both helpful and keen. I am sure he will be missed and remembered in those terms, by family, friends, work colleagues and fellow NZISM members. RIP

Peter Fitt

It is sad to hear of your passing. You will be remembered as a Master of your trade and always do professional in your mannerism. Always so well coming. Farewell dear colleague and friend

Karen Macdonald

A true and honestly dedicated colleague who will be sadly missed by the Health and World. He only ever spoke of the good of anybody and always had time for a chat. Will miss his laughter, RIP Ravi
Peter Fisher
Worked withRavi for a short period at Wel Networks in Hamilton, passionate and caring man ,enjoyed a joke and supported me in my earlier stages in H&S, Ravi will be surely missed.

Dean Wills

His mana will remain with us and be his legacy going forward. My condolences to his family and close friends.

Brent Sutton

Ravi was such a kind and gentle soul; what an honour to have known him. May God bless your family and friends in this difficult time. May your family be comforted by the outpouring of love surrounding them

Britta Badenhorst

I'm shocked by this sad and unexpected news. I always found Ravi to be friendly, engaged, and interested in what he could do to help those around him. At NZISM meetings it was a joy to see his smiling face and know I could expect a chat and a laugh, followed by a thoughtful and measured contribution to whatever issues were being discussed. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues.

Grant Nicholson

I met Ravi through the electrical safety channels when I worked for Powerco. And in his (lovely) sneaky way he convinced me to re-start the Taranaki branch of NZISM. Ravi had a wonderful way of filling you with confidence and encouraging you to be better and do more. He was a dear friend that I chatted too, and had coffee, with many times over the years. A great person to run things past as he had such a calming and gentle way about him. I didn’t meet his family but he always spoke proudly of his two children and lovingly of his wife. I can't even begin to imagine the hole this must leave for you all. I send my condolences and thank you so much for sharing him with us over the years. I am grateful to have known him. And super sad to be typing this.

Lesley Johnson

I met you Ravi, a couple of times. Your humbleness and generosity to disseminate knowledge and experience were so luminous. You will be missed among the peers. I wish strength and peace for your whanau at this sad moment.

Roya Gorjifard

I was so saddened to hear this devastating news. My condolences to his wife and family at this sad time. Ravi was such a mentor to so many people. I feel so blessed to have known him and his sense of humour! He reminded us all not to take life too seriously. RIP dear Ravi x

Amanda Rayner

Deeply sad to hear of Ravi's untimely passing, he was a true gentleman and always had a smile and made time to hear about what colleagues were up to. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends, Kia kaha.

Rob McAulay

We have all been saddened by the loss of Ravi. I valued his commitment, professionalism, and kindness, and relied heavily on his ability to provide insightful perspective. He has left a huge gap, for his friends and whanau, for NZISM, and for the wider health and safety community. He was a professional and a gentleman in all ways. I, along with many others will miss him terribly and share my sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Farewell, my friend

Robyn Bennett - NZISM President

A principled and effective advocate for workplace performance which for Ravi was always underpinned by robust health and safety for everyone in the workplace. He was collaborative and determined but most of all compassionate and caring. He knew good when he saw it and said so. His family was the most important thing to him and he had great stories about them all. A good man who will be missed by many.

Heidi Borner

I was walking across the Piazza San Marco, Venice, just about the time the 2015 H&S bill was passed back home, and to my astonishment Ravi and his wife were walking towards me. We stopped for tea together to marvel at the coincidence. This morning the memory popped up -- hours later, this news ... As a person, work and aside, Ravi had a great heart and will travel on well.

Dan Bishop

I remain so shocked and saddened to hear of Ravi's passing. A wonderful colleague and energetic leader for NZISM on our journey to becoming a national leader in promoting HS excellence. Always engaged, relatable and with a twinkle in his eye and a ready smile. Your legacy will always remain dear Ravi.

Samantha H Sharif

We are so sorry to hear of Ravi’s passing. He was a much loved and respected health and safety professional who was a devoted volunteer and member of NZISM. Throughout his career, Ravi took on almost every possible role within our organisation. When I first joined NZISM, Ravi was one of the key people who supported and guided me through the history and intricacies of our organisation. I very quickly learned through Ravi’s considered and respectful approach that his unique perspective was incredibly important, and helped me to make better and more effective decisions. I came to know Ravi as a trusted colleague who would give me an honest and insightful opinion, and I turned to him o ften to sound out ideas and gain perspective. NZISM is a much better organisation for Ravi’s contribution, he was an important advocate of the work we do. He was a kaumatua of NZISM, someone whose opinion was valued and respected by all. He will be sadly missed and our thoughts are with you and your whanau at this very sad time.

Selena Armstrong, CEO, NZISM

I remain so shocked and saddened to hear of Ravi's passing. A wonderful colleague and energetic leader for NZISM on our journey to becoming a national leader in promoting HS excellence. Always engaged, relatable and with a twinkle in his eye and a ready smile. Your legacy will always remain dear Ravi.

Samatha H Sharif

I didn't know Ravi personally, but could only stand back and admire his passion for his craft and the hard work that he put in for the good of us all in our profession. His passing will leave a big hole.

Susan Gale

What a very sad thing to hear, sincere condolences. I knew and worked with Ravi when he was at Carter Holt Harvey and he was a lovely person with a big happy personality and exceptional at whatever he put his mind too. He will be missed dearly.

Toni Punton

Thought with friends & whanau at this awful time. Worked closely with Ravi at the start of my H&S journey at Carter Holt Harvey and valued his knowledge and friendship.

David Wilkinson

So sorry to hear of your passing Ravi. While we only work for a short time together at Electrix I could see the knowledge wisdom and joy you brought to the role and those around you.

Shane Lewis

With fondest memories of a kind and welcoming man.

Rod Kemp

A very humble, respectful and hard working gentleman. Gutted to hear this sad news. Sincere condolences to the whanau pani.

Aaron Tait-Jones

Ravi, I loved working with you over the years, especially while I was at Kinleith. I’ll miss your sparkling sense of fun and the collegiality and in-depth discussions we had. My condolences to your loved ones.

Robyn Parkin CertProfNZISM

I’m very sad to read this news. I met Ravi when he worked at WEL Networks and he was patient and knowledgeable .. really just a lovely man. My deepest condolences to his whanau.

Karen Cressy

Ravi was always friendly, supportive and I noticed that his kindness literally radiated from him. Sending love to Ravi’s family and friends now and always.

Deb Cameron

Ravi was such a lovely man who shared his passion.

Yvonne NZISM Manawatu Branch

Was shocked and saddened to read of Ravi's passing. A very friendly and professional man who was always smiling. Deepest sympathies to family and friends. RIP Ravi

Tracey Stevenson

I have known Ravi for a long time he has been a huge supporter of workplace safety. We were both working in the Waikato and met at the Nzism meetings and various conferences over the years and more recently in Auckland. He’s been a friend and sounding board for ideas and frustrations over that time. He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by me and many others. His smiling face and friendly greetings are etched in my memory. Rest In Peace my friend.

Sue Mills

I am struggling to believe this very sad news and I know you will be devastated and will miss Ravi greatly. I have looked back at the photos of your visit to Nelson with your Mum in May 2017, it was so good to meet you both. Ravi was my go to person when I was on the National Exec team and become a really good friend. He had a wonderful sense of humour and was a very caring, honest man a real gentleman and you will have wonderful memories to help you through this. I know Ravi will be watching over you. If you are down this way please look me up. Sending my thoughts and love to all your family.

Barbara McDonald

Much loved, kind, and very well respected. I will miss him. My thoughts go out to his family who must be missing him dearly ❤️

Jon Harper-Slade

I am terribly saddened to hear of Ravi's passing. I only met him once, but spent all day sitting next to him at a workshop late last year. It was my first time attending the meeting. Ravi, was welcoming, supportive and so knowledgeable. We shared a few laughs and I enjoyed hearing about his experience and could feel his passion for his work. You’ll be missed greatly Ravi. Rest In Peace knowing you have left your mark on many people in this world.

Randa Abbasi

What a huge loss to the profession. I cannot imagine how great the loss to Ravi's family is.

Dan Davis

Had the pleasure of meeting Ravi on training courses and H&S meetings. A man who was enthusiastic about H &S and a very likable personality. Taken too soon. Condolences to Ravi family and friend. RIP Ravi.

Nigel Collins

Sincere condolences for your loss. Ravi will be sadly missed

Lee Hanna

Ravi’s heart was always on the right place. Farewell my friend.

Nenad

We were so saddened to hear of Ravi's passing. As a Health & Safety professional and a warm, friendly, intelligent man, it was always a pleasure to meet and work with him. Ravi was genuinely one of life's gentlemen, and our condolences and thoughts go out to his family, friends and colleagues.

The Team at IMPAC

What a shock to read of Ravi's passing. A man committed to NZISM and not short of bringing a laugh. RIP Ravi.

Paul Harper

It is with deep sadness we have lost you Ravi. From earlier days you were instrumental in the re-formation of NZISM Northland branch. You ignited, engaged and inspired us all to grow and build our safety group and community. You bought to us all, the Ravi leadership style – mentorship, encouragement, participation, sharing and caring with your ‘cool no fuss safety buzz’. Ravi – thank you. Excitedly I continued on to learn my real worth through accreditation which you played a big hand in. You taught to follow my safety dream, strive to go on further and achieve more. Ravi, you will be greatly missed at a Northland branch level and also as a person who shared so much in our worlds as such a loved and respected health and safety professional. Kia kaha mate x. Condolences to the Kolluru whanau and friends. RIP.

Kathleen Ferguson

Ravi you have left a legacy of health and safety practitioners who have grown directly and indirectly from what you gave back for the benefit of all. You have inspired, encouraged, supported, and boosted us all in one way or another. Your passion, humour and humble curiosity will be missed. Rest well my friend.

Tracy Evans-Tracy

RIP Ravi - will always carry fond memories of you. Condolences to your family on your passing which is way too soon.

Phil Lewis-Farrell

I'm so gutted to hear this news. I first met Ravi in 2002 at an NZISM Auckland event. I've been amazed by his constant dedication to the safety profession in New Zealand and would like to send strength and courage to his close friends and family who will be grieving his passing.

Sara Bond

So sad to hear of Ravi's passing. Ravi I will miss you - you were one of the first people I met within NZISM when I entered the profession many years ago. It was always a pleasure to chat with you Ravi you were a true gentleman. I always enjoyed your company and the knowledge you were happy to share. Rest in peace Ravi you will be missed.

Gina Espagne

I'm so gutted to hear this news. I first met Ravi in 2002 at an NZISM Auckland event. I've been amazed by his constant dedication to the safety profession in New Zealand and would like to send strength and courage to his close friends and family who will be grieving his passing.

Sara Bond

RIP Ravi. The humble gentleman. Haere hoki atu ki paerau.

Aaron Tait-Jones

I remain so shocked and saddened to hear of Ravi's passing. A wonderful colleague and energetic leader for NZISM on our journey to becoming a national leader in promoting HS excellence. Always engaged, relatable and with a twinkle in his eye and a ready smile. Your legacy will always remain dear Ravi.

Samantha H Sharif

Ravi brought an effervescent personality to his work and to NZISM. He was a professional friend and supporter and I will miss him.

Chris Peace

Ravi was a well respected professional who will be sadly missed. It has been a pleasure knowing Ravi. When I first joined NZISM Ravi was at the Hamilton branch and had such a happy encouraging nature. My thoughts are with the family as you mourn the loss of your loved one

Theresa D

Such a great guy and so easy to work with. We have lost a really great asset to the world of H&S. I can remember in my early days he was always so giving of his time and advice. You will be sadly missed.

Karl Berendt

Dear Ravi - it is with sadness that we say goodbye yet it is with a feeling of happiness that we remember you and all the great work you have done. I must admit to being shocked at hearing the news through the NZISM Northland grapevine - a place where you really took so many under your wing (including myself) and gave great guidance, mentorship and encouragement. You have been instrumental in supporting many people in their careers, providing an honest, respectful and thoughtful insight, sharing your knowledge and working hard to assist as and when needed. Thank you for being you Ravi - we will miss you.

Suzanne Peden

Very sad to hear this news - Ravi was so easy to get along with and generous with his time. My thoughts go out to his family and friends.

Ivor

I was so sad to hear that Ravi is no longer with us. He was my first real contact and support when I took over the branch Chair for Manawatu. He even took the time to meet with me when he was attending a course at Massey. His insight into how the NZISM worked and passionate about ideas he wanted to put forward for the future of the organisation. He was a professional in all definitions of the word.. You will be sadly missed.

Terri Coopland

Met him in Waikato branch meeting/conference, and many other meetings. NZISM and greater community has lost a dedicated health and safety professional.. Rest in peace Ravi. Heartfelt condolence to the family.

Mukesh Chand Professional NZISM

Deepest Condolences to Ravi's family, friends and colleagues. Ravi mentored and encouraged me as a new member of the Waikato branch when I joined in 2008. He encouraged me to attain tertiary qualifications in Health and Safety and from there proceed to HASANZ Registration. rest in peace my friend era i roto i te rangimarie

Geoff Brokenshire

Ravi, I can't believe it. You always had so much energy, it's impossible to think that you have gone. You were a good friend to me when I needed one. We did so much together, on the NZISM Waikato committee and studying. You would ring and said "I think we should do.... Why don't you do just this one thing..." It was always a good idea, but it was never just one thing. The food we shared - my nose ran and I broke into a sweat every time. It may have been hot but it was always tasty. You taught me to be brave, to take chances and to stand up for the things that matter. My heart is breaking for your family. I hope they take some comfort from how much you meant to so many people.

Tracey Murphy

My heart felt condolences go to the family and personal friends of Ravi who was a much respected Heath and Safety Professional.

Steph Hembury

Ravi, I'm so sad to hear about your passing. Your emails are still in my inbox, we still had work to do. Thank you for challenging me and always asking lots of questions, we found the best solutions that way. Thank you for your endless support for me and NZISM. We'll miss you.

Sara Dearsly NZISM CPD Manager

My deepest sympathies at the sudden loss of Ravi. He was a valued peer in the health and safety community who treated me with kindness and respect every time I met up with him. I will miss him.

Kim Payton

So sad to hear of your passing Ravi. It was always great to touch base with you at NZISM and HASANZ events, have discussion related to industry and your thoughts on various topics. Your work with NZISM and HASANZ has covered many aspects and a testament to your energy and support to our profession. Your honesty and opinion always appreciated as a highly respected fellow member. Our thoughts are with your family, friends and colleagues.

Barbara Ford

Condolences to Ravi’s family. A gentle, caring and wise man who I had the pleasure of working on a project with during my early days in H&S. Rest In Peace Ravi.

Jo van den Berg

He was my friend and colleague and was a really great guy. So kind and helpful and eager to share knowledge, he had an impish sense of humour too. I will really miss him. Heartfelt condolences to Uma and the family.

Leigh Ratcliffe

I’m so sorry for your loss. Ravi sounds like a truly inspirational person, who will be sorely missed.

Shelley G

Ravi, you were a true friend and I loved our debates, our schemes and our giggles. You may be gone in body, but your words and your impact live on. I will miss you dearly, and my thoughts, warm hugs and condolences go to your family.

Helen Sadgrove (née Parkes)

Ravi was one of the most enthusiastic H&S practitioners I ever dealt with. He was keen to learn as well as share. He helped rebuild the Northland branch which had been defunct for nearly 2 decades. He'll be sadly missed. My sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Go well Ravi.

Mark Montgomery

Very sorry to hear of the sudden passing of Ravi! I only had the pleasure of meeting Ravi once in Dunedin and really respected his knowledge and dedication to the NZISM. My deepest condolences to his family. He will be missed greatly.

Brian Ballantyne

A true gentleman with a great sense of humour. Thank you for everything you did for the Waikato Branch of NZISM Ravi and then yours years at a national level. We are all lucky to have had your dedication and I personally appreciated your support and leadership. Rest easy - much love and thoughts to your much loved family.

Sandy

Sad sad news. Condolences to family and friends

Mark Hays

I am so sorry to hear of Ravi's passing. He was such an inspiration and support to me. He always showed me kindness and understanding and i am forever grateful to have got to know him.

Lisa Taylor

Sending our Deepest Condolences to Ravi's whanau at this sad time. Ravi is going to be missed in so many ways. REST IN PEACE RAVI.

Nicky Solomon

Ravi Kolluru will be in our hearts and memories. Your contribution is highly valued.

Shahid Gill