What we do
Whakamana Ora is based in Manurewa, South Auckland.
We work to develop and support community changemakers who are deeply connected to the whānau and communities they serve.
Our leaders are often walking out of complex realities such as intergenerational trauma, gang involvement, family violence, or homelessness, and are choosing to lead change from within their own communities.
Our focus is on equipping these emerging leaders with the tools, confidence and relationships they need to lead positive, sustainable change. We do this through a blend of leadership development, mentoring, and opportunities to serve, collaborating to meet community needs.
OUR PURPOSE (why we exist)

To support, strengthen and connect local changemakers
We do this through the Manaaki Collective – our growing network of graduates, changemakers, volunteers and community partners, collaborating, sharing resources and supporting each other.

To uplift & transform our whānau & communities
We do this by mobilising volunteers and collaborating with our community partners to meet the needs of whānau, resourcing them with wellbeing workshops, support and organisational expertise, to strengthen them in their mahi for the long haul.

To equip and empower emerging community leaders
We do this through MADE to Lead – our flagship community leadership development pathway for emerging leaders with lived experience of hardship or trauma, equipping them with the tools & support they need to be change makers.
MADE to Lead
Community Leadership Programme
MADE to Lead is our two-year community leadership pathway for people who have faced some of life’s toughest challenges but want to turn their story into hope and action for their whānau and wider community. Many of our participants have been on the receiving end of help and are now stepping up to lead change in their own communities.
This programme backs emerging leaders with training, connection and support, helping them build the skills, confidence and networks they need to turn their story into hope and action for their whānau and wider community.
MADE to Lead - Module One
Module One (six months) is all about personal healing, growth and laying the groundwork for strong, community-led leadership. Participants get mentoring, pastoral care and training that supports mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
Our programme is accessible for all learning styles – including people who haven’t finished school or who are neurodiverse – so everyone can build confidence, skills and strong relationships in their own way. There are also opportunities for practical group outreach projects and volunteering, so participants can put what they’re learning into action and make a real difference in their communities.
MADE to Lead - Module One
Module One (six months) is all about personal healing, growth and laying the groundwork for strong, community-led leadership. Participants get mentoring, pastoral care and training that supports mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
Our programme is accessible for all learning styles – including people who haven’t finished school or who are neurodiverse – so everyone can build confidence, skills and strong relationships in their own way. There are also opportunities for practical group outreach projects and volunteering, so participants can put what they’re learning into action and make a real difference in their communities.
MADE to Lead - Module One
Module One (six months) is all about personal healing, growth and laying the groundwork for strong, community-led leadership. Participants get mentoring, pastoral care and training that supports mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
Our programme is accessible for all learning styles – including people who haven’t finished school or who are neurodiverse – so everyone can build confidence, skills and strong relationships in their own way. There are also opportunities for practical group outreach projects and volunteering, so participants can put what they’re learning into action and make a real difference in their communities.
Upcoming Events
Flourishing People
FREE workshop – 5 Sessions
(Four Tuesdays + one Saturday session)
Starts Tuesday 3 February 6-9pm
Elim Community Hub, 128 Mahia Rd
Flourishing People
FREE workshop – 5 Sessions
(Four Tuesdays + one Saturday session)
Starts Tuesday 3 February 6-9pm
Elim Community Hub, 128 Mahia Rd
Testimonials
Let’s work together