Looking back, and looking ahead.
Kia ora e te whānau.
It’s that time when we look back and then start again, and this mirrors our year of changes here at Changing Minds. We have been grateful for people’s considerable contributions, and I am beginning to understand my role and all of its possibilities.
It speaks to the passion and the openness of the Lived Experience community that on my journey to Changing Minds, so many people have gifted their expertise and knowledge as I’ve stepped into my role. For all the kōrero, time and cups of tea – thank you. I hope we can keep talking and learning.
While so much change in the mental health and addictions space can feel like a lot, and while it may not beall that we want, we’re choosing to celebrate the opportunity to advance Lived Experience wisdom and philosophies for a better health system and services. More so than ever before we see a clear need for Lived Experience expertise, advocacy and action across all matters effecting our wellbeing. We’re excited by the opportunities to see more and more members of the community owning their stories and experiences to take steps from individual empowerment to advocates for systemic change.
One of the great things about change is the chance to welcome new people, expertise and perspectives. We’ll be starting 2023 with three new members of the Changing Minds whānau, two of whom are already part of our Tall Tree Community! Andrea joined us in November as our new Projects Lead and is based in Ōtautahi Christchurch, and Sumarie joins our team this week as our fulltime Operations Lead in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. We are also delighted to have Monica supporting Andrea and the wider team as a Project Advisor for our Deaf Community mahi.
We also want to acknowledge the mahi, energy and passion that was gifted to Changing Minds this year (and in years past) by Ally, Adele, Taimi and Mac. We gain inspiration from watching you take on new adventures and challenges, and while we no longer work together day-to-day, you will always be a part of the Changing Minds whānau.
In the last month with the support of our Team and our Board we’ve refreshed our organisation strategy as we understand and adapt to the opportunities and challenges within the Mental Health and Addictions environment. We can’t wait to share the details – and action - of this with you in the New Year.
Our Changing Minds team will be taking a break to refresh and recharge between 23 December 2022 and 9 January 2023. We hope you have a healthy and happy holiday period and can’t wait to reconnect in the New Year.
