Kia ora koutou,

Ko Matt ahau. My journey to FASD-CAN has been a varied one but the common thread is a connection to vulnerable rangatahi in Aotearoa NZ and abroad in the Pacific, Australia and Canada. I live in Tamaki Makaurau, not too far from the Waitakere Ranges and epic west coast beaches!

Although I have met and walked alongside rangatahi either diagnosed with FASD or with possible FASD, my most recent role was leading a supported accommodation experience for rangatahi leaving our care system. It was somewhat frustrating due to the system’s inability to provide enough positive outcomes.

My role now with FASD-CAN is mentoring and support our kaiārahi / young leaders with FASD, who want to grow their leadership skills and utilise their own living experience in supporting others in mana enhancing outcomes. FASD-CAN Navigator Anna Gundesen has been leading this mahi and I feel fortunate to be able to step onto this path with her.

Nga mihi nui.