Orquidea Tamayo Mortera

Tēnā koutou katoa,

Greetings members, many of you already know me as Orquidea (Spanish for Orchid). I was born in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, Mexico, I am a Mexikiwi – Aotearoa has been my home for the last 13 years. I don’t have children, but I do have a fantastic husband Luis Soto who was born in Costa Rica.

I am the current President for NZSDRT Inc. and my current portfolios include and are not limited to; International Relations, Public Awareness and Education. I am passionate about Diversional and Recreational Therapy and I strongly believe the job we do is fundamental to enhance the quality of life of human beings across the globe. I love learning and sharing my knowledge with others. I have a BA on International Relations & Human Rights, studies in Health Promotion, many other national and international certifications, and currently trying hard to complete my Master’s. I have won a few national awards for my DRT input in NZ and my work has been recognized in the health care sector. I have also published a few articles and I am a board member and trustee of different organisations in NZ and internationally. I also hold a few memberships for organisations relevant to our field in NZ and overseas and I have my own consultancy, which I use to do a lot of pro bono DRT work – but I also have a full-time job as the National Therapeutic Recreation Specialist for Summerset Group Holdings.

I am a fun-caring human whom loves making friends and connecting people. I consider myself a networker. There is still a lot of work to be done in our field and I believe the experience and skills I have can enhance NZSDRT Inc. work to keep growing and reaching higher places for our profession to get the recognition it truly deserves.

Ngā mihi nu