A Full Circle Journey: A New Chapter in the Kauri DRT Whānau

By Frenzy Ubando

Walking through the doors of Kauri again—this time not as a student, but as a facilitator—was a deeply emotional experience for me. In 2021, I was just like many of the students I now teach: new to the country, full of questions, and holding tightly to a dream. I still remember the first time I nervously stepped into class, unsure of what the future held. Today, I return with confidence, purpose, and overwhelming gratitude.

To those who are just getting to know me—students, industry partners, and our wider support network—my name is Frenzy Ubando, and I’m proud to join AJ and Rhea as part of the leadership guiding the Diversional and Recreational Therapy (DRT) and Community Health programme here at Kauri. As an alumna of this very course, I bring not just knowledge, but lived experience, empathy, and a heart for service.

This past month, I had the privilege of visiting our students in their placements. Watching them engage with residents, navigate real-life care situations, and grow into their professional selves reminded me of my own placement days. The nerves, the excitement, and the learning curve—it all came rushing back. I was reminded, once again, why this work matters. Why we choose to walk with people through both joy and hardship. And why human connection lies at the centre of everything we do.

Attending my first Kauri graduation as a staff member was incredibly moving. I stood on the other side of the stage this time, but I felt the same pride I once did when I got my certificate. Seeing our graduates walk up, filled with emotion and surrounded by whānau, filled my heart. I saw myself in them—and it made me even more determined to give my best in this role.

What continues to inspire me is the resilience of our current students. Many juggle work, study, family, and life’s uncertainties, yet they show up with heart. They are the future of DRT in Aotearoa, and I am honoured to walk alongside them.

To our partners, stakeholders, and colleagues in the industry: thank you for trusting Kauri. I want to assure you that as I step into this role, I carry not only the vision of our programme but also the legacy of excellence nurtured by AJ and Rhea, and all that have led before them. Together, we are committed to preparing DRT professionals who are compassionate, culturally aware, and ready to make a meaningful impact.

To my past self, I would say: “Every moment of doubt was preparing you for this. Keep showing up. You belong here.”

And to our students: I see you. I believe in you. And I am here—for every assessment, every placement visit, and every celebration. This isn’t just a programme. It’s a whānau. And I’m so proud to now help lead it forward.

 This was a beautiful moment when we surprised our classmate Athina with a birthday celebration in class. Despite our busy schedules and the pressures of study, we always made time to celebrate one another and lift each other up. Athina, who is now also working as a Diversional Therapist, was genuinely touched. That moment reminded me just how much of a whānau we had become during our studies.   

This is a special photo with our passionate and dedicated tutor, AJ, who played a huge role in shaping our learning journey. I remember this day clearly because we had just completed a major assessment, and my resource manual was selected as one of the top four in the class. It was such a proud moment for me, especially knowing the time, thought, and heart I had poured into it.    

This was our very first Wednesday activity after months of being in lockdown. It felt amazing to finally be together again in person, to laugh, reconnect, and take part in the hands-on learning we had missed so much. The energy that day was unforgettable. After such a long period of online classes and isolation, this activity reminded us why we chose this path and how vital human connection is in our field.  

This was the day I completed my five-month volunteering placement at CHT St. Margaret’s. Saying goodbye was emotional, but I left feeling proud of how much I had grown—not just as a student, but as a future Diversional and Recreational Therapist. The experience gave me real-world insight into the role and confirmed my passion for supporting the wellbeing of others through meaningful, person-centred engagement.

Here are some photo highlights from our latest graduation!