When did you start working for InZone:
August 2017.
What is your role here:
Boarding Manager
Describe your job in a couple of sentences:
I see myself as being here to āwhina and support our boys through their daily lives. Inspire where I can. Encourage them always.
Where are you from:
Pukepoto, Kaitaia. I have lived and worked within South Auckland since the age of nine, however return home whenever I am able.
Tell us something about yourself:
I am a very proud mum of a wonderful 13 year old son. Our lives have been spent sharing our home with foster children from all walks of life. Sharing both our hearts and our faith has blessed us beyond belief. I am a very positive person. Strong in faith. Loving to the core.
What have you done previously:
I have worked alongside children in care for the past 15+ years. Having the privilege to help bring understanding and acceptance where needed. As well as supporting and encouraging them through the process of healing. I have also been a Sunday School teacher and Manu Karakia within Te Pihopatanga o Te Tai Tokerau for over 20 years. Having grown up within its fold always encouraged by my kaumatua and kuia to embrace and share who I was born and gifted to be.
What do you enjoy most about working for InZone:
Quite simply everything. It is for me like a home away from home. Having grown up on and around my marae the InZone kāinga and whānau truly have the essence of all that encompassed. Being able to work where my God and my tikanga is placed at the forefront is amazing. Being able to work alongside such loving and respectful young men – who hold our future in their hands – is a blessing I am truly humbled by.
