Elvisa van der Leden for South Waikato District Council
Profile Statement
My principal place of residence is in the Tokoroa Ward area.
I am standing for South Waikato District Council to give back to the community that helped raise me. As a mother of two, I have returned home with experience in governance, community organization along with nation-wide networks.
I served as an elected member on the Taranaki Regional Council from 2019 for one term and was a founding trustee of the regional arts organisation, Creative Taranaki. I have been a sole trader and worked for government and non-government organisations.
As a passionate environmental and arts advocate, I voluntarily support community groups such as the Tokoroa Little Theatre, Mokaihaha Kōkako Trust and South Waikato Filipino Society. I genuinely enjoy volunteering my skills and networks to help communities connect and grow.
I have a track record of being evidence-based, future-focused and community minded. I would be honoured to serve our community as a representative on our Council.
Education
2009-2012
B.A. Media Studies
Victoria University of Wellington
With my media studies background, I have been able to use my analytical and creative skills in how I communicate with people from different backgrounds. Strong communication skills is a handy tool when discussing complex or diplomatic matters.
2014-2015
Diploma in Marine Science
Bay of Plenty Polytechnic, Tauranga
My background in environmental science and conservation has allowed me to work with government and non-government organizations as well as grassroots community groups. This has given me strong understanding of the importance of expertise and networking when advocating for a particular cause.
2024
Level 1 Te Reo Māori
Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, Online
As tauiwi (non-Māori), I am a strong believer in keeping indigenous culture and languages alive. I am on a journey of learning Te Reo for my children who whakapapa Māori through their dad (Ngāti Tarāwhai, Tuwharetoa, Maniapoto, Raukawa). I also aspire to learn my mother's native tongue, Tagalog, and support the Filipino community.
