Debbie is passionate about people, and after having lived through her own traumatic life experiences has dedicated her life to making a positive impact in the lives of others. With 16 years of experience working as a Financial Mentor in the community, she helped countless individuals navigate their financial challenges and achieve their goals. Her qualification in Social Work has also allowed her to provide support to people facing traumatic experiences through organisations like Victim Support.

Debbie has actively been involved with The Louise Nicholas Trust, where she serves as a Survivor Advocate. Starting out as a volunteer, she feels blessed having been fortunate to have secured the opportunity to work full-time in this role, providing invaluable support to survivors as they navigate the court process. Her lived experiences have helped to cultivated empathy, compassion, and dedication to assist her in her work, and she feels privileged to walk alongside survivors during such a challenging time in their lives.

Outside of her work, Debbie cherishes her role as a wife, parent, and grandparent. Married with four adult children, as well as an adult bonus child, who bring immense joy to her life. With 5 grandchildren, she is always surrounding by love and laughter.

Debbie feels her own journey is a testament to her resilience, kindness, and unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

‘He aha te mea nui tea o? He Tangata, He Tangata, He Tangata What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people.