Empowerment Starts with Being Heard: Why Culturally Grounded Advocacy Matters

In today’s world, so many people are dealing with harm at work — bullying, discrimination, being made redundant, or just quietly pushed out. It happens across all sectors, and it’s affecting good people.

I created Awhimai Advocacy because I believe no one should go through that alone.

🌿 Grounded in Kaupapa Māori

This isn’t just about employment rights — it’s about mana.

I work with people from all walks of life, but my mahi is grounded in kaupapa Māori values — whanaungatanga, manaakitanga, and tika. These aren’t just buzzwords — they shape how I show up, how I listen, and how I walk alongside the people who come to me for support.

💬 What Makes This Different?

I don’t give you a number and send you off. I take time to understand your story. Sometimes that starts with a cup of tea and a kōrero.

People are often unsure whether what they’re experiencing is “bad enough” to ask for help. But here’s the truth: If something at work is hurting you, stressing you, or affecting your wairua — that’s enough. That matters.

💪🏽 Empowerment Is the Heart of It

This kaupapa is about more than fighting back — it’s about reclaiming your voice. Whether I’m helping you write a letter to your employer, prepare for mediation, or rebuild your confidence through coaching — the goal is always the same: restoring your mana.

You deserve to be treated fairly. You deserve to feel safe. And you deserve support that understands who you are, where you’re from, and how to hold space for you.

🤝 Building Change, One Kōrero at a Time

Awhimai Advocacy is growing slowly, through real connection — kōrero, blog posts, and word of mouth. I’m not trying to build an empire. I’m building something that lasts — something based on integrity, clarity, and care.

And I know there are so many people out there who need this kind of support — culturally grounded, straight-up, and human.

🧭 If You’re Facing Workplace Harm…

You don’t have to figure it out alone. Start with a free 20-minute kōrero. No pressure, no judgement. Just space to talk, be heard, and see what’s possible.

Ngā manaakitanga,

Awhimai

Founder & Director – Awhimai Advocacy