Nathan Chong-Nee Social Services National Industry Advisory Group Member Chief Executive Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers Te Rarawa, Samoa I’ve been involved in the social services sector for over 17 years, working across Aotearoa and the Pacific. As a Registered Social Worker, my journey has included roles in frontline practice, child protection, community development, and leadership—most notably as Principal Child Protection Officer for the Government of Samoa and now as Chief Executive of Te Rōpū Tauwhiro i Aotearoa (ANZASW).I’m passionate about the wellbeing of our people. I believe in the power of collective action, relationships, and transformative change to uplift our communities and strengthen our professions. I bring experience in sector leadership, workforce development, child protection, and advocacy at both national and international levels. My background includes policy influence, working with government and NGOs, and championing the voices of frontline workers and those that we represent across our communities. I’d like NIAG to be a platform of ethical leaders where we provide grounded, independent advice with a consistent focus on people and a fearless commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. By advocating for our sector and ensuring the voices of those on the ground are heard, I hope we can drive meaningful change that strengthens our workforces, social services and delivers lasting impact for the communities we serve.