Tēnā koutou katoa from Katikati, in the sunny Bay of Plenty.
Life as a Diversional and Recreational Therapist is truly a vocation I was meant to find. Beginning my career in an aged care facility, I was privileged to meet people from diverse backgrounds and to support them in ways that honoured their individuality. Becoming a Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapist has encouraged personal growth and expanded my capacity to support others in meaningful ways.
Now working within my local community, I find great joy in supporting people with well-being challenges, both physical and cognitive. I feel especially privileged to support people who are experiencing grief and loss, recognising that palliative and end-of-life care require deep compassion.
Professional development is central to my practice, with regular training and ongoing learning. As part of this growth, I am pursuing my long-time passion for learning te reo Māori. Guided by dedicated Kaiako, who share their knowledge and enthusiasm, the journey has been both humbling and enriching.
Learning te reo Māori helps quiet my mind and has deepened my appreciation for the importance of listening. The following whakataukī captures this beautifully:
Mā te rongo, ka mōhio
From listening, comes knowledge
Mā te mōhio, ka mārama
From knowledge, comes understanding
Mā te mārama, ka mātau
From understanding, comes wisdom
Mā te mātau, ka ora
From wisdom, comes well-being
Ngā mihi nui whānau.