Hopefish proudly to celebrates the impact created by Tania, who received a $5000 Hopefish Grant to support her Manaaki Hauora Access Bars Practitioner Training initiative. The grant funded culturally aligned resources, certification fees, venue hire, and training materials, allowing her to deliver fully funded training for twelve participants in her community.

This support removed all financial barriers and enabled mamas, Kaiako, youth workers, and rangatahi to gain skills that support emotional wellbeing, stress reduction, and confidence in caring for their whanau. Tania also personally covered additional costs to ensure every participant could complete the programme.

The outcomes have been significant. Twelve new practitioners are now offering Access Bars sessions within their homes, Kura, and workplaces. Participants reported increased self-belief and the potential for new income opportunities. Kaiako and youth workers are using the modality to support rangatahi with stress and anxiety, and a follow-up wananga is already being planned.

This project strengthened Tania’s commitment to delivering hauora and healing work full-time and highlighted the strong community need for accessible, culturally grounded healing options.

Hopefish is delighted to recognise Tania’s achievements and the lasting contribution she is making in her community.