Sophie Strickland
East Auckland Community Liaison
Ko Sophie Strickland tōku ingoa. Ko Ngāti Kurī me Aitutaki ōku iwi. He Kaihāpai Hapori ahau ki Te Waipuna Puawai.
I am a mother of eight, a proud grandmother, a Pou o te Hāhi Rātana, and a Māori Warden. My role involves supporting wāhine and whānau through our programmes and community activities, helping create spaces where people feel welcomed and supported. No two days are ever the same, and that's something I really enjoy about the mahi.
The people is definitely what I enjoy the most about my mahi.
I still can't quite believe I work here sometimes. Years ago, I sat in classes at Te Waipuna Puawai as a tauira, learning from amazing wāhine like Whaea Rangi and dreaming that maybe one day I could teach too. To now be in a position where I can support others on their journeys feels really special.
Seeing people grow in confidence and step into opportunities they may never have imagined for themselves is one of the most rewarding parts of the mahi.
People often see the classes, events, and programmes, but there is a lot that happens behind the scenes. There are phone calls, registrations, emails, organising transport, making cups of tea, setting up rooms, washing dishes, and checking in with whānau. Sometimes the smallest things can make the biggest difference. A conversation over a cuppa can be just as important as the programme itself.
Community means connection.
It's people showing up for one another, celebrating together, supporting each other through difficult times, and knowing there is always someone listening. Community is built through trust, and taking the time to genuinely get to know one another. For me, community is about creating spaces where everyone feels they belong.
My hope is that all whānau who connect with TWP feel safe.
Safe to be themselves, ask for help, to keep coming back. Sometimes people just need a place where they know they'll be welcomed without judgement. My hope is that whānau know Te Waipuna Puawai is always here for them, no matter where they're at on their journey.
