I am excited to introduce myself to you all as the Service Manager for AppleBerries Brookwater. My name is Brenda Riek, and I feel incredibly blessed to share the wealth of knowledge I've gained during my 33-year journey in this industry.
My journey started when my children started school; I entered the industry as an Administrative Officer and lunch float, but this was short-lived as my yearning for growth kicked in. I moved into an assistant role and started my study path in the Early learning sector. I knew this was where my passion lay, so I furthered my studies to continue to forge a path to become a Service manager. I have been in this role for over 17 years now and find that every day is a new learning opportunity for myself and the team I am fortunate to work alongside. Each day is rewarding, and I get very excited seeing relationships form and abundant opportunities for children to explore and develop.
I am deeply committed to fostering open and effective relationships and communication within the AppleBerries family and the wider community. I firmly believe that whilst alone, we can achieve good outcomes for children, but together, we can achieve amazing results and empower each individual child to build their self-esteem, independence, empathy and resilience through healthy interactions and supportive relationships.
I am honoured to partner with you and look forward to making a positive impact on the lives of the children entrusted to our care.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions—my door is always open.
Talofa lava, Kia Ora, Malo e lelei, Konnichiwa, Ni hao, Namaste, Bula Vinaka, Kamusta, Good day and warm greetings to you all.
My name is Taigalu, also known as Tai Foma'I Ah Ki. I am a proud mother of 13 wonderful children, six of whom are my biological children and seven of whom I have had the privilege to adopt. Additionally, I am blessed with 11 grandchildren. As a devoted mother, I play an active role in nurturing my own family as well as contributing to the well-being of my broader Samoan community.
Originally from the picturesque island of Upolu in Apia, Samoa, my journey led me to New Zealand in 2004, seeking new opportunities and experiences. Having graduated as a primary school teacher in Samoa in 1996, I initially taught students from Year 4 to Year 8. Upon settling in Auckland, I transitioned into early childhood education (ECE), finding profound inspiration working with the over two age group in a bilingual preschool setting called Aoga Amata.
Motivated by my passion for nurturing young minds, I pursued further education while balancing full-time work and family responsibilities. Despite the challenges, I obtained my Diploma in Teaching and Bachelor's degree in ECE in 2008. This paved the way for enriching opportunities at Auckland University of Technology, where I served as a Pasifika Tutor, Associated Teacher, and visiting lecturer, supporting aspiring educators in their academic pursuits.
In 2012, I embarked on a new chapter in Brisbane, Australia, as a fully registered early childhood teacher (ECT) before returning to New Zealand to complete my Master of Education in Leadership. Tragically, my plans were overshadowed by the untimely passing of my sister, leaving me with the responsibility of caring for her two children. Despite the unforeseen challenges, I remained resilient, navigating through personal loss while maintaining my dedication to education and childcare.
Transitioning to the family daycare pathway upon my return, I assumed the role of Coordinator for four years. Eventually, I ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing my own business while simultaneously caring for my youngest child and preparing her for school. In 2019, I returned to the ECE sector, contributing my expertise as an ECT at Edge Bellbird Park.
Most recently, I joined the team at AppleBerries as an ECT, bringing over 25 years of experience and a steadfast commitment to fostering confident, capable, and competent learners. My educational philosophy revolves around a balanced approach, integrating play within a flexible yet structured routine to nurture the potential of each child.
I am thrilled to be part of the Brookwater team this year, where I aim to continue making a positive impact on the lives of our future leaders. Thank you for welcoming me into this community, and I look forward to the journey ahead.
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