Sammy grew up on the Waitaki and is well connected to her whānau and community. With a background in education, she brings a practical, people-focused approach to everything she does. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood Education), a Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Primary), and is currently completing a Master’s in Māori and Indigenous Leadership through UC. As Strategic Lead – Te Aka Whai Hua | Growth, Innovation and Transformation, Sammy works across the Trust to turn ideas into action. Her role brings together planning, innovation, partnerships, funding, evaluation and service design to help strengthen the way the Trust supports whānau. She enjoys bringing people together, finding practical solutions to complex challenges, and building systems that make life easier for kaimahi so they can spend more time with the people they are there to support. She is passionate about continuous learning and using evidence to help shape services that create meaningful change for whānau. Alongside her role at Te Puawaitanga, Sammy is Tumuaki of Waitaha Taiwhenua o Waitaki Trust and plays an active role in the reconnection of Waitaha ki Te Waipounamu. She values collaboration, strong relationships and creating opportunities for people to contribute, learn and grow together.
