Marlene Herewini’s job is a labour of love.
Marlene helps young people and students explore careers at council through our Piki Ake Cadet programme and the Summer Internship programme. She also works with Priority One and the University of Waikato to engage tertiary students in projects that help us to better serve our community.
Marlene’s role was brand new when she joined the council in 2022, so her first task was to create the programmes she now manages. Having been a cadet herself in her early years and progressed through leadership programmes with a central government employer, she knew exactly how to pitch these programmes to gain the right outcomes for TCC and applicants.
Focusing her career on supporting students to grow in theirs, she worked at the local Polytech and a private training organisation while gaining a Diploma in Business and a Bachelor of Career Development. When the opportunity to join council came up, Marlene jumped at the chance.
“I knew I could make a big contribution, and have a big impact on young people, by being in a place with a raft of career paths. A place with a great workplace culture and opportunities to help new cadets and students (like the young me) to grow and develop. TCC is absolutely that place.
“I love the energy, the way that people ask, what can I do? How can I help? The knowledge and the expertise of people who work here is inspirational, and the heart we have for our community is humbling in so many ways. We live our values and aren’t afraid to say what can we do better?
“I love that we are contributing to the growth of our talent now and for the future. And when we get to see a Piki Ake Cadet graduation or a Summer Student Showcase, we help each other understand the value of our relationships and the benefits to our people, our whānau and wider community.
“If you’re thinking about joining council or one of our development programmes - Karawhuia – give it a go!
