The Building Safer Communities team is a dedicated and passionate group, wholeheartedly committed to their community’s well-being.

“My passion for serving people and the community makes me ideally suited for my role at Building Safer Communities (BSC). I thrive on making things happen, regardless of the project’s size, because the outcomes are incredibly important to me. Whether it’s through small initiatives or large-scale projects, my focus is always on achieving meaningful results that benefit those around me.

With over 20 years of experience working for national corporates, I have honed my skills in developing and implementing award-winning marketing strategies. My background includes leading diverse teams, including call centers, sales teams, and marketing professionals, and bringing innovative campaigns to market.

I am driven by the belief embodied in the saying, ‘What’s the most important thing in the world? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata – it’s about the people, the people, the people. This principle guides my work at BSC, where I am dedicated to creating safer, stronger communities. I find fulfilment in helping others and making a positive impact on their lives, and I am committed to continuing this mission through my role at BSC.”

“As the Office Manager, I am driven by boundless energy and enthusiasm, making me the perfect fit for my role at Building Safer Communities (BSC) as no two days are ever the same. My innate passion for organisation and efficiency coupled with meticulous attention ensures I ‘fit right in’ in the fast-paced environments that is BSC.

Every morning, I wake up with a passion for making a difference through my position at BSC. Being involved from an operational perspective allows me to tangibly contribute to the organisation’s overall success. I thrive on improving efficiency and ensuring smooth operations. I find immense satisfaction in the knowledge that we as a collective are making a lasting impact on our community.”

“With over 40 years of driving experience and a passion for road safety, I am well-suited to my role as a driving instructor at Building Safer Communities (BSC). Meeting and helping people brings me great satisfaction, and I am committed to making our roads safer one driver at a time.

My professional journey includes approximately 15 years as a driving instructor for both cars and motorcycles. I am an Approved AA Defensive Driving Course Facilitator and a Motorcycle Basic Handling Skills Assessor. Learning from some of the best in the business, and drawing from my father’s extensive experience as New Zealand’s longest-serving testing officer and a traffic cop, has provided me with a solid foundation in this field.

My key skills include a deep knowledge of road laws, the ability to think outside the box, and expertise in identifying and correcting bad driver traits. I relish challenges and am dedicated to road safety. I believe in changing the way drivers think to ensure safer roads for everyone, and I take pride in my role in making this happen, one driver at a time.”

“My community-minded approach ensures that every task I undertake is completed to a high standard, and when faced with challenges I am determined to find solutions and doing my absolute best to meet the needs of our clients at Building Safer Communities (BSC).

My professional background includes experience as an accounts manager where I learned valuable skills in account management, navigating competitive environments, and leveraging partnerships for promotional success. This role honed my ability to stay focused and effectively utilise resources from larger companies to achieve goals.

In addition to my professional skills, I am a pretty good cook and not afraid to get my hands dirty when needed. I can converse in three languages—English, Samoan, and basic Te Reo Māori—enabling me to connect with a diverse range of people. My passion for creating a safe community, especially for the very old and very young, drives my work. Witnessing the positive impact of supportive environments on young people’s growth motivates me, and I am dedicated to contributing to the well-being of our community for the sake of my family and everyone in it.”

“Passion drives me in the role I hold as Youth Navigator at Building Safer Communities (BSC). With over a decade of experience and a wealth of local community connections, I bring a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of young people in our area.

My professional journey spans various roles within youth development, including Alternative Education, Employment Coaching, and Youth Mentoring, alongside the unique experience of raising three teenagers of my own. I have a knack for organising large community events and facilitating group sessions, honing my skills to empower and uplift our youth.

I am driven by a deep-rooted passion for community and a commitment to fostering positive change for all. My can-do attitude and belief in the transformative power of collective action fuel my dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of young people and our broader community.”

“As a Youth Navigator at Building Safer Communities (BSC), I am committed to empowering young people and guiding them on a path to positive change. Growing up in Ahipara/Kaitaia, I have deep roots in the Far North and understand the unique challenges and limited opportunities faced by our community. My passion for connecting with Rangatahi drives my work, and I’m dedicated to fostering a supportive and inspiring environment where they can thrive.

With a background in sports and community programs, I bring hands-on experience in building resilience, promoting well-being, and encouraging growth. My approach is grounded in listening, understanding, and collaborating, ensuring our young people feel valued and equipped to shape their future. I am grateful for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact and to walk alongside our taiohi on their journey to becoming resilient leaders for tomorrow.

In my role at BSC, I am guided by the whakataukī: ‘He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata’ — it is the people, the people, the people. I am proud to be part of an organisation that shares my commitment to creating a safe and thriving community for all.”

“I have a genuine passion for helping others and a natural affinity for connecting with people. Drawing from years of experience in customer service and my background as a registered nurse, I bring a unique perspective to client interactions. My commitment to treating each individual with empathy and respect, regardless of their background or circumstances, is deeply ingrained in my approach to my work.

My key skill lies in my ability to truly listen to others, understanding that sometimes what isn’t said speaks volumes. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for clients, where they feel empowered to share their experiences and seek support. It’s incredibly rewarding to play a role in guiding individuals on their journey to healing, witnessing the transformation from uncertainty to hope. I consider myself privileged to be able to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve at Building Safer Communities.”

“As the Receptionist and Administration Support at Building Safer Communities (BSC) you have to be able to adapt and be flexible as each day is so different. We welcome clients from diverse backgrounds, and my ability to adjust my working approach and communication style fosters positive interactions.

I have extensive experience working with rangatahi of all ages through teacher aiding and relief teaching. Additionally, I have professional experience in business administration. These roles have equipped me with skills in coordinating events, managing inquiries and finances, community engagement, and various administrative tasks.

I am passionate about the Kaitaia/Te Hiku community, having lived here my entire life. My motivation comes from a desire to contribute positively to our community’s well-being. I love that my mahi makes all clients feel included and valued when they walk through the door. Creating a safer place to live, work, and play is an amazing initiative, and I am blessed to be a part of this positive journey for our community.”