Morgan Tenana, Dental Internship, Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora Taranaki
"Māori need healthcare workers who they can trust and people who can create a relaxing and trusting environment, especially when it comes to dental education and with their tamariki."
Morgan Tenana, Bachelor of Oral Health - AUT
Ko Taranaki te maunga
Ko Kaupokanui te awa
Ko Aotea te waka
Ko Ngāruahinerangi me Te Atiawa ōku Iwi
Ko Ngatitu te hapu
Ko Orimupiko te marae
Ko Morgan Tenana tōku ingoa
Over the summer holidays Morgan Tenana had a fantastic opportunity to experience what it is like working in a public dental clinic in Taranaki.
Morgan is currently enrolled in tertiary studies in Oral Health Therapy, and is working towards completing a Bachelor of Oral Health at Auckland University of Technology (AUT).
In partnership with Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora, over the summer break Why Ora was able to help Morgan secure an internship, based at Rangiatea Dental Clinic in Ngāmotu.
There is a significant need for dental therapists to work in communities in Taranaki and Aotearoa. This experience has broadened Morgan’s focus from private to community practice.We are so excited to see Morgan’s career develop and wish her well with opportunities in the future!
“My experience doing some work experience with Te Whatu Ora over the summer holidays was super interesting and eye-opening. I’ve never experienced what it is like to work in a public dental clinic and prior to my internship I was almost certain post-graduation I would opt to work in a private clinic. After spending a few days with Te Whatu Ora I believe I’m more interested in working in a public dental clinic and giving back to our Taranaki community. My future aspirations, I’d LOVE to own my own dental practice but have smaller goals like securing a job with Te Whatu Ora after graduation is a big goal of mine.”
