Victoria Ruakere

Kaiaawhina Rangahau | Research Assistant

Kia ora, I'm Victoria!

You may find me in the background supporting the team here at Toi Manako Studio. I am passionate about people and communities coming together to create a space of welcoming and manaakitanga. Others describe me as detail-oriented, observant, organised and creative. I bring a team-focused mindset and a strong appreciation for clarity and structure in information. I see people on the fringe like myself and appreciate being able to bring people in and connect them to resources, and other people that will uplift and encourage them.

I am excited to join Toi Manako in exploring how visual illustration strengthens communication and deepens understanding. My role is to research the impact of incorporating visual illustrations in communications using qualitative and quantitative methods. I draw on my current studies in Library and Information studies through Open Polytechnic, where I am developing skills in information organisation, research practice, and knowledge stewardship.

Outside of my work with the team here at Toi Manako, I run a business called Serenity Works where I help support small businesses with administration, customer relations, marketing, brand identity, and simple web development. My goal there is to provide owners with much needed support that is tailored to their needs as they grow their business.

Experience

• Small Business Owner at Serenity Works.

• Volunteering with Charity Organisations.

• Certificate in Video Game Design. 

Passions: Disability advocacy, seeking knowledge and understanding, uplifting our community at KAW (Kirikiriroa Autistic Wildflowers), and bridging the gap to enable accessible information for all people.

Strengths: Attention to Detail, Cross-Cultural Communication, Creative Innovation, and Collaborative Teamwork.

Interests: Storytelling, collecting, audio recording and podcasting, anything craft-related, and listening to music and audiobooks.

Communication Style: Visual and written communication from both an empathetic and analytical headspace.