Our People | Waiariki Whanau Mentoring

Waiariki Whanau Mentoring are now supporting thousands of Whanau both directly and indirectly within the Fringe Whanau space across the Waiariki and Waikato Rohe respectively.

As a result of our kaupapa, fringe whānau and the wider community are benefitting.

Tāne and wahine are increasingly living healthier lifestyles, reconnecting with whānau and developing plans to achieve their aspirations because they can see a positive future for themselves.

We have provided a platform and safe space for them to share their stories which provides the opportunity to work and deal with the unresolved trauma caused as a result of their upbringing.

By creating a space of ‘no’ judgement and or fear the positive flow on effects have been clearly apparent to see, with other whanau reaching out for the same support.

Whanau themselves say they are growing in confidence, see themselves as “having a contribution to make” to their communities as a direct result of working with WWM.

As a result we have seen reductions in:

As a result of these reductions, we now have

of our whānau in
full time sustainable employment.

The foundation for such successes is built on our Pou of faith, hope and love centred around whānau. We notice that positive change happens for those that are willing to commit to the kaupapa and leading the process for transformation.

Telling of stories

The telling of stories is “powerful”, with Treaty Partner employees not only listening to stories but sharing their own as well.

This is directly strengthening their relationships with government agencies, partners and communities where societal mindsets are changing and view of these whanau that they didn’t see before.

Connected to iwi

WWM are also increasingly connected with local iwi and we are seeing small positive changes with regard to perceptions of those living on the fringe among iwi.

These successes, connections and partnerships mean WWM are highly respected in fringe whānau communities and increasingly well known.