Since joining the organisation in April, Andrea has kept the office running like clockwork, supporting the team to drive positive change and helping to uplift the Kiwi workforce. It’s a far cry from the corporate environment she’s used to, but Andrea says she couldn’t be happier.

“This is an amazing bunch of people doing such cool things and they are making a big impact,” says Andrea. “The work they do is heartfelt, and for all the right reasons. I believe that my heart and soul are in the right place – so to me, this a match.”

When Andrea first started at Education Unlimited she was blown away by the scope and quantity of the training the organisation delivers.

“Wow! We have highly skilled and passionate trainers all over the country, and they are making a real impact on people’s lives. It’s a very inspirational place to work. I feel so privileged to be part of this team of incredible educators and to work with people like Tina Rose who have so much vision.” 

But as well as appreciating the great work Education Unlimited conducts externally, Andrea has also been impressed by the internal opportunities the company provides for personal development and growth. This is a business that walks the talk.

“EU runs an internal Māori development programme, Ka Ora, which I’m really enjoying. Every two weeks I have a one-on-one session with Thomas Taiaroa, the Māori advisor. I didn’t study Māori at school – I moved from the UK to New Zealand as a teenager and back there everyone does French. Building my te reo Māori skills and cultural competency is something I’ve needed to do for a long time and it’s fantastic that it is strongly encouraged at EU as part of staff development.”

As Administration Assistant, Andrea assists programme delivery in the administrative space, helping with marking and making sure all the resources are ready. She has brought health and safety to the fore, and enjoys assisting with accounts and keeping the office running smoothly.

“When I was younger I always saw myself becoming a teacher but somehow I fell into office work instead. I’ve always had my finger in lots of pies – I’ve done accounts, PA work, office services, office management. I’m a jack of all trades!”

She is also extremely talented. Over the years Andrea has written music, played instruments, been a singer in an originals band, been a dancer, and taught Middle Eastern dance. In fact she is still involved in a music project doing back up vocals for Tripzville. Add to that raising two teenage boys, pursuing her own personal and spiritual development, and indulging in her love of beauty, health and wellbeing, and it’s fair to say that Andrea keeps herself incredibly busy. Not too busy though to give a kind word of support and encouragement to all those she meets.

“It’s always the little things that make the difference and I think that’s the same with the way we treat each other. Empathy is a big thing for me – if we could all be a bit more compassionate, the world would be a better place.”

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