We are delighted to see the recognition of Whaea Merle Samuels’ contribution to healthcare in Aotearoa New Zealand.
As a Lived Experience Advisor for Collaborative Aotearoa, Merle was recently acknowledged for her whakaaro and contribution to enhancing the Health Care Home Model. Merle was presented with this honour by the outgoing Health Minister Dr Ayesha Verrall.
Lived experience advisers bring unique perspectives and insights to greatly impact the effectiveness of an organisation's mahi. Whether it's related to mental health, disability, addiction or any other area of our hauora, this firsthand experience helps to understand the needs, concerns and aspirations of the individuals and communities served.
We are also incredibly proud to have Whaea Merle as an adviser for the Health Navigator Charitable Trust WOVEN group. Read more about WOVEN and the WOVEN team, including Merle.
Congratulations to Whaea Merle Samuels for her ongoing commitment in this space.