With stress and anxiety levels on a newfound rise the Striving and Thriving Workshops address both the physiological and psychological causes and offer support through awareness raising and coping mechanisms.  The workshops also offer participants the opportunity to communicate openly and share with peers who are experiencing the same stress.

The Cook Islands own clinical psychologist, Dr Evangelene Daniela-Wong is leading the Employers workshops, supported by Mark Henderson and James Puati who are leading the Employee workshops. “This isn’t a time to make a profit off of another’s stress. This is the time to come together and share, to be of service where we can, and make a difference in each other’s lives” said Dr. Daniela-Wong.

Cook Islands Tourism CEO, Halatoa Fua, along with Business Partnership Manager for the Cook Islands Tourism, Claire Wilson attended the first Employer’s workshop to determine how the Tourism Corporation could support the workshops. “Understanding the needs and views of the key partners to Cook Islands Tourism is a key area to be able to support them” states Claire Wilson. From this initial meeting it was decided that an incorporation of the Kia Orana Values would support and add value to the workshops. As a result, Tourism’s favourite aunties, Nane Papa and Lydia Nga through true Kia Orana spirit have offered to co-facilitate the workshops.

“A large number of our Tourism Industry are experiencing income loss and cancellations which of course, will lead to high levels of stress and anxiety. Now is the time to come together to discuss new ways of doing business, how to communicate clearly during stressful times and to reimagine what the future will look like for us” said Halatoa Fua.

The workshops have provided guidance for many business owners. “The workshop helped me gather my thoughts and find the appropriate words to express to my staff the realities the business is facing at the moment,” said Patricia Barton, Chief Executive Officer for The Bond Store.  General Manager of Muri Beach Club Hotel, Liana Scott, said “mental wellness is just as important as physical wellness and understanding that we are not alone in this.”

If you think that you don’t need these workshops, then you are the right person to attend. It’s a relaxed, safe and confidential workshop tailored to encourage sharing, respect and key values. The free of charge workshops are in their third week and will continue for as long as required. The next available workshops are Wednesday 13th May and Thursday 14th May. To register, email Ani Talbot [email protected]