Way to go, Ata!

Another heart-warming story from our Kaitūhono-a-mahi in Wairau, Carolynn Tipene ...

"So proud of this wahine! Meet Ata. Ata got in touch with Te Kotahi o Te Tauihu Trust after moving from Maraenui in Napier to Wairau to get away from a lifestyle that had firm control on her everyday life. It is not an easy journey to get free of addiction and see a brighter future, but Ata is using every inch of willpower she has. She is at the gym daily and has surrounded herself with a supportive women’s group, Te Ara Whakaora. Also by her side is Whānau Ora Navigator Abbey Epiha (Te Hauora o Ngāti Rārua).

"With all the aroha, manaakitanga and whanaungatanga of those around her, she was ready for the next step on her pathway plan to recovery - seeking fulltime mahi after a decade of unemployment. After a few disappointments from some employers, Men at Work have employed her, with a view to taking her on fulltime.

"To some, that might not be a big deal but for Ata to know someone had given her a chance was emotional and marked a real turning point. Ata loves her mahi and is grateful for the opportunity to learn new skills.

"It can be daunting to break the connection to the MSD lifeline, but Ata is determined to be the independent wahine she has always wanted to be. Go forth and conquer Ata Taueki you are an example of ‘mana wāhine’ at its best."

WHĀIA E KOE HE ITI KAHURANGI KI TE TUOHU KOE HE MAUNGA TEITEI