For more than a decade, Laura has worked alongside rangatahi, employers, schools, communities and government agencies - creating practical opportunities that help people build confidence, overcome barriers and achieve lasting outcomes.
As a Registered Social Worker, programme designer and rangatahi development specialist, Laura is known for turning big ideas into practical solutions that work in the real world.
Ko Pukerangatira tōku maunga
Ko Hokianga tōku moana
Ko Ngātokimatawhaorua tōku waka
Ko Te Rarawa tōku iwi
Ko Waipārera tōku marae
Nō Hokianga ahau
Laura believes that opportunities shouldn't depend on how well someone fits into a system.
Her work focuses on understanding what's getting in the way, finding practical ways around it and creating opportunities people can actually access.
Whether she's working with rangatahi, workplaces or communities, the question is usually the same - “What would actually make a difference here?”
I'm particularly passionate about ensuring neurodivergent rangatahi are understood, supported and given every opportunity to succeed.
Supporting recruitment, retention and workplace success.
Creating opportunities and strengthening communities.
Evidence-informed approaches with lasting outcomes.
Rangatahi Supported
Workshops Delivered
Community Members Engaged
Consultation & Information Sessions
Practical rangatahi and workforce programmes.
Schools, employers, iwi, government and communities.
Favourite coffee Trim Flat White
Certified Pet Therapy Dog Handler
Relaxes by Scrolling TikTok
Passionate about Helping rangatahi access opportunities they might not otherwise have.
Favourite part of the job Watching someone realise what they're capable of.
Years ago, Laura worked with a rangatahi who had only ever been told what he couldn't do. He'd lost confidence, stopped believing in himself and couldn't picture a future he was excited about.
They didn't start with job applications or career plans. They started with trust, small wins, challenging limiting beliefs, and focusing on strengths instead of barriers. Eventually, something shifted.
He started seeing possibility where once there had only been limitation.
That's the part of the work that Laura has never forgotten. When someone begins to believe in themselves, confidence grows, opportunities open up and futures change.
Watching that transformation never gets old.
I didn't know
I could do this.
One moment of belief can change the direction of a rangatahi's life.
Practical, relationship-led work that strengthens people, organisations and communities.
Confidence, wellbeing and positive pathways.
Employability, capability and workplace success.
Building from what's strong, not what's “wrong.”
Practical programmes designed for real-world outcomes.
Connecting people around shared goals.
Turning conversations into insight and action.
Whether you're supporting rangatahi, strengthening your workforce, engaging your community or exploring a partnership, Laura would love to hear what you're working on.