Maria brings substantial experience in community development and programme facilitation, supported by over 20 years of professional experience in payroll and accounting. She also has training and experience in the neurodiversity field, strengthening her ability to understand and support individuals and whānau with diverse needs. Fluent in both English and Samoan, Maria has a strong knowledge and understanding of the Samoan culture, values and traditions, allowing her to provide culturally responsive and meaningful support to families. Her broad professional background enables her to bring strong organisational, financial and community engagement skills to her work within Whānau Ora. Maria is committed to a holistic, aigā-centred approach that recognises the strengths, values and aspirations of each whānau, supporting them to build confidence, resilience and sustainable pathways towards improved wellbeing and positive outcomes.

Leroy is a Lead Navigator within the Whānau Ora service, bringing extensive experience across education, youth mentoring, pastoral care, community engagement and the corrections sector. His professional background has strengthened his ability to work alongside individuals and aigā through complex circumstances, providing practical guidance, advocacy and culturally responsive support. With a strong foundation in Samoan language and culture, Leroy takes a holistic and aigā-centred approach to navigation, recognising the strengths, values and aspirations of each aigā. Through his role in Whānau Ora, he is committed to supporting families to build resilience, strengthen relationships, access appropriate services and create sustainable pathways towards improved wellbeing and positive change.

Jenniene, also known as J, is of Māori and Samoan descent and brings a strong cultural connection and understanding to her work within the community. Her diverse professional background spans legal administration, having worked in a law firm, as well as event management and coordination, giving her strong organisational, administrative and people-focused skills. As a professional personal trainer, J leads health and fitness initiatives at Falelalaga, with a strong focus on supporting the physical wellbeing of individuals and the community. She's also a qualified Zumba instructor and leads a free community Zumba class every Friday, creating an inclusive and welcoming space for people to stay active, build connections and enjoy being part of the community. Her fun, energetic and high-spirited personality makes her a natural at bringing people together and creating positive, engaging, and safe environments for the community.

David is a New Zealand-born Samoan who brings a unique combination of retail, music and creative industry experience to Falelalaga. With a background in music and experience working alongside a number of international artists, David brings a strong creative perspective to the organisation and its community programmes. David leads Falelalaga’s creative and digital content, including social media, photography and visual communications, helping to showcase the organisation’s programmes, events and community initiatives. Alongside his creative role, he supports the coordination and delivery of the Homework Centre and Holiday Programme, helping to create engaging, safe and supportive spaces for tamaiti and the wider community. His combination of creativity, communication and programme coordination allows him to contribute to Falelalaga’s work in a way that reflects its values, culture and connection to the community.

Penina is the founder of Falelalaga and brings over 15 years of experience in education, along with a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership. Born and raised in Musumusu Fagaloa, Samoa, she has a deep understanding of the importance of culture, connection and community, and knows how to build genuine relationships with people from all walks of life. With over 5 years of experience in Corrections and more than 10 years working within community development space, Penina brings a wealth of knowledge and lived experience to everything we do. Her experience plays a key role across Falelalaga’s programmes, from the Homework Centre and Holiday Programmes to our seniors, women’s, health, fitness, education and community initiatives. Penina understands the needs of our community and the importance of creating spaces where people feel welcomed, supported and valued. Her passion for people, education and culture continues to shape Falelalaga and the opportunities we create for our community.