Chief Executive | ME Family Services
Kahui member | Tangata Whenua Social Workers Association

Ngāti Hine

My social work career has spanned over 20 years, focussed on strengthening whānau and communities through grounded social work practice. This led to my involvement with the Tangata Whenua Social Workers Association (TWSWA) and a growing passion for the development of indigenous practitioners. Now, as Chief Executive of ME Family Services, I get to see first-hand the diverse needs of emerging, developing, and experienced social workers, early childhood educators and taiao practitioners.

I have significant experience in nurturing emerging social workers and building career pathways within the NGO sector. As a strong advocate for indigenous communities, I bring a network of Tangata Whenua practitioners and leadership perspectives on workforce challenges through my role with TWSWA. My leadership as a Chief Executive provides a deep understanding of both the practical and strategic elements of effective social service delivery. I am committed to advancing cultural competency and addressing equity issues, which are essential for a thriving social services sector.

I hope that being involved in the NIAG will encourage social services workforce that is culturally competent, well-supported, and equipped to meet the diverse needs of whānau, communities and employers. Insufficient workforce preparedness and resource limitations can hinder the delivery of effective services as in work training, guidance and support is required by employers.

I would like to see:

• Increased Student Retention: students are well-supported throughout their training, including financially.
• Students are better prepared to meet employer expectations as they enter the workforce.

• Targeted workforce training and professional development scholarships
• Clearly defined career pathways: to attract and retain skilled social service professionals
• Equity and Access: address systemic barriers that hinder access and success for Maori, Pacific and minority populations.
• A strengthened Tangata Whenua voice: Tangata Whenua frameworks that underpin the entire student-to-practitioner journey, ensuring culturally grounded practice and leadership across the sector.”