These words emulate our newest member of staff Audra Teepa, who only joined the team this week but has already become a well known smiling face around the office.
Audra, who joined our Te Piringa Maori Public Health team, has a strong background in education and has been teaching Te Reo Maori for the past 12 years. However, she is excited about the change of scenery and is looking forward to learning the ropes here at Nga Kete and meeting different people from all walks of life.
Part of Audra’s new role will focus on promoting mental health and wellbeing for Maori, reducing access to the means of suicide and contributing to improved mental health.
Audra, who was born and raised in a little country town named Ruatoki in the Bay of Plenty and once specialized as a welder, moved south in the late 80’s/early 90’s and has since worked in the education sector.
A few weeks ago Audra attended a hui in the city about suicide prevention where she was approached by Daniel and Leoma Tawaroa about the possibility of a role at Nga Kete. The rest is history.
“I was inspired by them just asking.”
Audra brings her knowledge, skills and experience to the Kia Piki te Ora - Suicide Prevention team, with a focus on creating opportunities to support whanau, hapū, iwi and wider community.
Kia Piki te Ora – Suicide Prevention aims to reduce the incidence of suicide, suicide attempts and self inflicted harm that has such a devastating impact on whanau and communities.