Ngawai Johnson, kaitohutohu, central region

Kia Ora Koutou,
Ko Tainui te Waka
Ko Ruahine nga maunga
Ko Manawatu te awa
Ko Kauwhata te iwi
Ko Tahuriwakanui te hapu
Ko Maniaihu te tupuna whare
Ko Te Rama raua ko Hurihia oku tipuna
Ko Ngawai au

Getting to where you want to be in life is a blend of past experiences, present living, and future aspirations. There are a lot of influences that impact on who we become in life and as my mihi tells a story of where I come from, I'll tell you a little of how I came to be a career consultant/kaitohutohu.

Careers is always an interesting subject to talk with people about, because there are so many different areas, like deciding what you'd like to do, what training you might need, what employers might expect, or what subjects people should take at school. My career journey has been an interesting one and it will continue to be for a while yet.

As a child I was involved with helping others and understanding whanaunatanga on the marae, at hui and other functions. In family life we were taught about what it means to look after others and be a part of group (whānau). Aspects like teamwork, networking, giving and supporting others are qualities that I use today in my role as kaitohutohu.

From there, my choices led me to becoming involved in the hospitality/tourism industry as a waitress, bartender and a conference co-ordinator, and then to becoming a sales rep and working in sales and marketing - all people-oriented positions.

I had two lovely sons early in my life but still wanted to expand my knowledge so I decided to undertake some study. I gained a Certificate in Hospitality/Tourism, then commenced a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, gained a Diploma in Complimentary Health, and practised in Australia as an aromatherapy massage therapist.

I then gained a Bachelor of Education in Primary Teaching. I taught as a classroom teacher for two years and in the holidays, as an ESOL teacher with Korean children.

Through both circumstance and opportunity I discovered the role of a kaitohutohu at Career Services rapuara, which led me to think more seriously about my own career path and how I could fit into this role.