Originally from New Zealand’s North Island, Salona made the move to Australia in October 2024, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep passion for occupational therapy. She holds a Bachelor of Health Science in Occupational Therapy and a Postgraduate Certificate in Specialist Mental Health and Addictions, equipping her with the skills and knowledge to support participants in achieving their goals.
Salona’s journey into OT wasn’t exactly straightforward. She initially set out to become a physiotherapist, having helped set up a rugby club gym and developed a keen interest in weight training. But after a chance encounter with occupational therapy at university, she knew she’d found her true calling.
She has a strong passion for person-centred care, mental health, and dementia support, with a natural ability for understanding complex behaviours and finding ways to improve quality of life. In New Zealand, she integrated kaupapa Māori practices into her work, reflecting both her Māori and Pasifika heritage and her commitment to holistic, meaningful care.
Outside of work, Salona’s sporting background shines through, she’s a former powerlifter and has played just about every sport you can think of. Her love for animals, especially horses, runs deep, thanks to her time playing Polocrosse.