Kia Orana, Kia Ora, and Warm Greetings!Thank you for taking the time to learn a little about me and my journey.It is both a privilege and an honour to serve in the spaces I do, where I am deeply passionate about community, people and I love to contribute wherever my experience and skills can add value.With nearly 30 years of experience in Community Development—specialising in youth, community engagement, governance, stakeholder relations, and capacity building—I am drawn to projects that align with my faith, uphold strong family values, and create positive impacts on people and the environment.My growth mindset drives me to excel in event and project management, facilitation, networking, advocacy, teaching, and nurturing relationships with diverse stakeholders. My ability to influence without direct command, combined with a focus on co-design, ensures collaborative and inclusive experiences for everyone I work with.In April 2022, I made the difficult decision to resign from my role as Community Development Team Leader at Hamilton City Council after nearly 20 years of service as an opportunity to serve with my Pasifika people, as the Project Manager at Kaute Pasifika Trust came available and I was blessed to be chosen to join the K'aute Pasifika family. This is where I support the development of an integrated wellbeing service at the K’aute Pasifika Village in Hinemoa Park, Hamilton. I am truly blessed to work alongside my Pasifika community, contributing to the holistic wellbeing of our people and helping them live life to their fullest potential.I am also eager to expand my political and strategic expertise to achieve better outcomes for our communities and remain actively engaged in my neighbourhood, city, region, and national affairs. I am passionate about advocating for our Pasifika peoples to engage better with local and central government decisions and encourage our Pasifika peoples to be active and keep informed of things that affect their lives. We need to be at more decision tables, making sure our voices are heard and our voices impact positively for all peoples. I am the daughter of Ere Ford (née Marsters) from Pamati Avarau Island and the late George Ford from Aitutaki Island, Cook Islands. Family is incredibly important to me, and I am passionate about fostering strong, resilient families. I am a proud Cook Islander! #CIWDWith my QBE (Qualified by Experience), teachings from my family, and lessons life has offered, I am committed to leaving a legacy for future generations—a legacy where they can thrive in a better world.