Theresa Tongi
Theresa is of Samoan decent from the village of Vai'ee, Moata'a and Alamagoto, born and raised in West Auckland. When two of Theresa's children were diagnosed with ASD, she resigned from her 12 year career in the New Zealand Police to focus on being a full-time mum. Theresa and her…...
Fiona Elliot
Originally from Taranaki, Fiona recently returned to New Plymouth after 12 years overseas. As a mum of three boys, two of whom have been diagnosed with ASD, she understands how challenging and isolating it can be. Their diagnosis was a large part of her decision to homeschool. Fiona Elliot Autism…...
Emma Cluett
I grew up in Papakura and trained in medicine and paediatrics in Auckland. Taranaki is now my home and were I live with my little whānau. I trained in developmental paediatrics as I had been inspired from a young age by our Tamariki with different superpowers. I am passionate about…...
Karen McEldowney
I enjoy the opportunity to use my graphic design, marketing and business skills to give back to a cause that benefits the community in such a meaningful way. Theresa inspires and challenges me to achieve more than I ever thought was possible. Autism Connex is one of the most rewarding…...
Andrew and Karen Glenny
Andrew is a local orthopaedic surgeon and Karen is a nurse, who spends the majority of her time raising their two children – Isaac (21) and Samantha (19). “We were thrust into the world of ASD with the diagnosis of our son Isaac, at age 2. It has been a…...
Claire Maaka
Claire Maaka My name is Claire Maaka. Myself and my husband Dion have two children Jake (12) and Aliyah (10). Aliyah was diagnosed with Autism at 2 and is non verbal. I am from Ireland and have been living in NZ for 10 years. I hope that sharing our journey…...
Pat Tongi
Patrick and his wife, Theresa have four children, two are Autistic. He loves serving his community through Autism Connex and as a Police Officer in New Plymouth. Patrick is of Tongan descent from Vava’u. He was born and raised in Auckland. “I want our community to be the best at…...
Dion Maaka
Dion Maaka (Ngāruahine) is Taranaki born and raised. With a Bachelor of Business Studies and a wealth of management experience, Dion has utilised his skills across the globe, and back home in Taranaki. While working in London, Dion met his wife Claire and in 2009 they returned to Taranaki to…...
Jolene Stockman
Jolene is an award-winning Taranaki writer, speaker, and business owner. She is also takiwātanga; autistic. Since her adult diagnosis, she has gone public with her experience - its challenges and superpowers. She is excited to support the Autism Connex team and increase optimism and understanding around autism....