One minute with Bek Parry
We are all in the Waka together as all sectors and groups have a role to play in creating a healthier Greater Christchurch! Meet some of the signatories who are with us in the Waka in our new One Minute With segment.
Email healthychristchurch[at]cdhb.health.nz if you would like to be featured in our One Minute With segment for Waka Toa Ora signatories.
Let's meet Bek Parry...
What does your organisation do and what’s your role there?
I am a Health Promotion Team Leader in the Ōtautahi office of the National Public Health Service - we were Community and Public Health. We work across a range of settings and determinants of health, getting in behind community energy to improve health outcomes and supporting improved environments where people live, work and play.
I am also a Registered Public Health Nutritionist with a keen passion for supporting the shift in our food system towards a more localised and resilient food system that increases food security for all.
What do you enjoy most about your mahi and/or working for your organisation?
Without hesitation, the people. I feel really lucky to work alongside people who are so dedicated to changing the system, both our internal kaimahi and also across our partner organisations.
What project have you been a part of at your organisation that you’re most proud of?
It is impossible to choose one thing, so much of our mahi is long-term, we don’t often get to celebrate ‘the end’ of a project. A really great part of my role though is the ability to provide students with placement opportunities. I always have a student (or 2 or 3) and it’s an absolute pleasure to not only see them develop and grow in their own skillset, but also in their knowledge and understanding of how their future selves may be able to play a role in health outcomes.
Who inspires you in your mahi?
My team members! They are so committed to supporting their communities to realise their health ambitions, they inspire me on the daily.
Share a book, talk, training or podcast that has influenced your professional development
Book called ‘Belonging’ by Owen Eastwood - he has also been interviewed across a variety of podcasts. He talks about the value of centring whakapapa to support belonging and strong team culture.
What’s an activity, hobby, or interest that you enjoy outside of work that contributes to your own wellbeing?
Boxing for fitness during the week or escaping with time in nature. That might be either working on my own garden with hands in the soil, or heading somewhere remote for an explore.
What is your favourite space or place in Waitaha, and why?
So many great spaces and places to choose from. I think due to their proximity to home, the Port Hills are such a super asset with so many different walks and viewpoints, you can choose a more popular route or go more off-piste to feel remoteness within the city boundaries.