Debra-Lee Waaka
Invercargill
Summary
Dedicated mother of four children, recently relocated from Gisborne to Invercargill. Passionate about working with young individuals, particularly young mothers, to help them navigate life's obstacles and build a positive future. Experienced in mentoring young people who are not engaged in education, employment, or training. Provide guidance and support to help them develop confidence, essential life skills, and personal aspirations. Firmly believe in the potential of every young person to flourish with the right guidance.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Youth Mentor & Support Worker
Asset Rangatahi
01.2022 - 01.2024
- Worked with rangatahi (ages 16 to 25), including NEETs, to support their personal growth and development
- Helped youth build confidence, gain life skills, and achieve personal goals
- Assisted rangatahi in obtaining their driver’s licenses and securing employment
- Co-led Youth Nation, a rangatahi group focused on creating positive, drug- and alcohol-free spaces for young people
- Organized and facilitated activities such as basketball games and team-building exercises
- Fostered manaakitanga (care) and whanaungatanga (connection) to strengthen community ties
- Volunteered in co-leading a Friday night youth group, providing a safe space for rangatahi and helping keep them off the streets
Part-Time Cleaner
Ocean Beach Motor Lodge
01.2021 - 01.2022
- Maintained cleanliness and hygiene in guest rooms and common areas
- Ensured rooms were properly prepared for incoming guests
- Followed strict health and safety guidelines
Boning Floor Worker
Ovation Meatworks
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Operated machinery for meat processing
- Bagged and packed meat products while ensuring quality and safety standards
- Applied knife skills in meat handling and processing
Head Cook & Store Manager
Rosie’s Fish & Chip Shop
01.2017 - 01.2018
- Managed store operations, including food preparation, hygiene, and customer service
- Supervised and trained staff to ensure high service standards
- Handled stock management and daily financial transactions
Various Roles – Boning Floor, Bagger, Packer, Meat Handling & Staff Trainer
Crusaders Meatworks
01.2004 - 01.2016
- Operated machinery in meat processing, packing, and bagging
- Trained and mentored new employees in various processing roles
- Ensured compliance with food safety regulations
Education
Level 4 - Exercise, Sports, and Fitness
Te WānangaAotearoa
Whirikōkā12.2021
Level 4 - Ngā Tākaro Māori
Te WānangaAotearoa
Whirikōkā12.2021
Level 1 Te Reo Maori - Maori
Naenae College
05.2004
Turakina Māori Girls College
01.2002
Skills
- Youth Mentorship & Support
- Working with NEETs & Vulnerable Rangatahi
- Community Engagement & Development
- Teaching Life Skills
- Event Coordination & Youth Programs
- Exercise, Sports, and Fitness Training
- Meat Processing & Handling
- Knife Skills & Machinery Operation
- Staff Training & Mentoring
- Food Preparation & Cooking
- Customer Service
- Workplace Safety & Hygiene
Cleaning & Housekeeping
Timeline
Youth Mentor & Support Worker
Asset Rangatahi
01.2022 - 01.2024
Part-Time Cleaner
Ocean Beach Motor Lodge
01.2021 - 01.2022
Boning Floor Worker
Ovation Meatworks
01.2019 - 01.2020
Head Cook & Store Manager
Rosie’s Fish & Chip Shop
01.2017 - 01.2018
Various Roles – Boning Floor, Bagger, Packer, Meat Handling & Staff Trainer
Crusaders Meatworks
01.2004 - 01.2016
Level 4 - Ngā Tākaro Māori
Te WānangaAotearoa
Level 4 - Exercise, Sports, and Fitness
Te WānangaAotearoa
Level 1 Te Reo Maori - Maori
Naenae College
Turakina Māori Girls College
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