We hold our Dream Team members in high regard – they not only work tirelessly to make a real difference to our tamariki, but they’re all-round good souls too.
This term, whilst we’ve had to farewell two Navigators so that they can follow their dreams, we’ve been able to welcome aboard two fresh faces who have volumes of experience working with young people in Northland.
In August, we had a beautiful powhiri for our new Year 9 Navigator – Mo Matautia-Tepania. Mo comes to us from
Regent Training Centre where we could tell she was a special taonga. Mo has excellent experience in pastoral care and developing programmes to support career pathways. Mo is a avid netball supporter and coach and a bright, smiley face to have in our midst. Welcome Mo!
In September, we had an emotional powhiri to welcome our new Year 7 Navigator Izaak Birch, who comes to us from
Te Ora Hou Northland where he’s been for the past 9 years. In that time, Izaak has worked on programmes providing
mentoring for recidivist youth offenders aged 10-17 and 12-15 year olds with behavioural and developmental challenges.Not only have we gained great new team members this term, but current staff have also been recognised for their amazing achievements. Our CEO Ant Backhouse, has been awarded with a 20 year service award from I Have a Dream America. This award recognises Ant’s commitment to our tamariki, leading the team forward and helping to progress the I Have a Dream programme over the past 20 years. Congratulations Ant! We’re all very proud of you and thankful for your tireless mahi over the years.
