Makerita Makapelu  

Makerita manages the team at Wesley House Cannons Creek, looking after the people and the resources. A key element of her role is supporting the team to build community relationships and grow community leaders. The includes coaching the team to identify and make happen innovative practice in the work.

Makerita was born in Samoa and raised in Porirua. She has a background in performing arts and toured the world as a member of the Whitireia Dance Group. She then went on to use performing arts as a vehicle for change for at-risk youth.

Makerita has led the team at Cannons Creek for 17 years. She has a deep understanding of the kaupapa of Wesley Community Action – Te Ara Wēteri – and the history of community-led development in Porirua East. Her relationships across community, organisations and government span decades.

Makerita’s passion “I have a deep love of learning and a curiosity about human nature and I’m motivated by people’s growth, especially people who are often overlooked. I am a weaver both literally and also as a way of working.”

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