Maria brings extensive experience in child safety and community development, with a strong foundation in trauma-informed care. Her approach prioritises emotional safety, empowerment, and dignity. She understands the impact that trauma, instability, and lack of support can have on individuals and families — and works to create environments where people feel secure, heard, and respected.
Maria is deeply committed to building genuine relationships and supporting participants to develop confidence, independence, and meaningful community connections.
Meet the team
Maria Cruz
Amanda grew up surrounded by the care sector. Her family has operated care facilities for generations — from her grandparents to her mother and aunt — giving her a lifelong understanding of what quality care should look like.
Amanda also brings lived experience as a person diagnosed with Autism Level 2, ADHD and Complex PTSD. This perspective allows her to understand, on a personal level, the importance of safe, predictable, respectful, and sensory-aware support environments. She is passionate about advocacy and ensuring participants feel understood, not judged.
Her combination of lived experience and professional knowledge shapes the heart of Aruga Āwhina.
Amanda Harding
