Feleti Hema
I am a Tongan youth worker based in Aotearoa, with a Bachelor in Youth Development and a strong passion for serving God and supporting young people to grow in identity, resilience, and purpose. I began my youth work journey in South Auckland in 2016 and have since developed my practice across community, education, and youth justice spaces.
My work is grounded in both professional training and lived experience. As a former bikie and drug user, I bring authenticity and insight into my practice, allowing me to connect with those navigating complex challenges. I use this experience to foster understanding, build trust, and support meaningful change.
I hold additional training in alcohol and drug support, family violence, mental health first aid, and peer support. My approach is relational, strengths-based, and culturally grounded, drawing on Pasifika values such as faka’apa’apa (respect), tautua (service), and tauhi vā (nurturing relationships).
My Approach
My supervision approach is reflective, relational, and values-driven. I aim to create a safe and respectful space where practitioners can openly explore their practice, challenges, and growth. I support supervisees to strengthen their confidence, maintain ethical boundaries, and stay aligned with youth development principles.
I integrate cultural perspectives, faith where appropriate, and lived experience into supervision, while ensuring the focus remains on safe, effective practice for young people. Supervision is a space for accountability, encouragement, and continuous development, supporting youth workers to become more grounded, intentional, and effective in their roles.
Qualifications
Bachelor in Youth Development
Alcohol & Other Drugs Training - ABACUS
Mental Health First Aid - Counties Manukau Health
RAP (Response Ability Pathways) Training - Praxis
Profesional Association