As one of Pacific Homecare’s longest serving employees with more than a decade of service, Support Worker Meleane Katoa-Fa’amasa is amazed at the transformation of the organisation in her time.
Originally from Ha’apai in Tonga before she moved to New Zealand in 1998, Meleane says the level of professionalism at Pacific Homecare makes her proud to work for such an organisation.
But she also adds the love and care have always been part of the organisation since she started working there in 2005.
“My Dad was getting old and sick and Mama Pi (one of the co-founders of Pacific Homecare) suggested I came and work for them,” Meleane recalls.
“I did a pre-degree nursing foundation programme at MIT and graduated, but got married and had a baby. The hours suited me and when my kids started to grow up I was able to work more hours.”
Meleane is an advocate for ongoing training and is now working towards her Level 4 qualifications.
She also enjoys the variety her job offers.
“I have four permanent clients who I tend to every day, but there are a few others I care for once a week,” she says.
“They come from all nationalities, and I’m dealing with more clients who are disabled, which I enjoy. And I know they enjoy it when I visit.”
Being chosen as Employee of the Month has made Meleane “very proud”.
“Many things have changed since I started and they have made it even better. Being so long with Pacific Homecare makes this award even more special.”
