ABOUT US
Our Journey
Manaaki Pathways is a small, relationship-focused support provider based in New South Wales, providing disability support and private in-home support to people who value independence, consistency and genuine connection.
We are values-led and grounded in the principles of manaakitanga — hospitality, dignity, care and kindness. For us, good support isn't simply about completing tasks. It's about getting to know the person, building trust and supporting people to live life on their terms.
Our founder brings over 7 years of experience in the disability sector, supported by ongoing professional development in trauma-informed practice, safeguarding and person-centred support. We are committed to continuing to learn and staying current with best practice.
Within our disability services, we have experience supporting people living with psychosocial disability, complex mental health challenges and mild to moderate intellectual disability, particularly those who want to live safely and independently within their own home and community.
We translate positive strategies into everyday practice.
Our Support
We proudly support NDIS participants with:
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Daily Living Support
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Personal Care
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Community Access
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Psychosocial & Complex Mental Health Support
We also provide Private Home Support for individuals and families looking for personalised assistance at home, without the need for an NDIS plan.
Whether your journey is grounded in routine or filled with new possibilities, we're here to walk it with you.
Mission
At Manaaki Pathways, our mission is simple: to walk beside you, always.
We believe that true support is comes from manaaki (care), aroha (love), and community. We uplift individuals and their family with personalised, compassionate care that honours each person’s journey.
Vision
We envision a future where every person no matter their background or ability, is supported to live with independence, joy, and purpose.
Committed to Best Practice
Our founder's story
I've been working in the NDIS for over seven years now. Most of that time has been spent doing direct support, showing up for people day to day and getting to know them properly.
I grew up in New Zealand, where looking after each is our culture. That's manaakitanga. It's where the name Manaaki Pathways comes from.
Being a mum has shaped a lot of how I see this work too. I know what it means to want the people you love to feel safe and looked after, especially at home. That stays with me in every support I provide.
After years of supporting people one on one, I've learnt that when the support is consistent and the relationship is real, people thrive. That's what I wanted to build with Manaaki Pathways.
Shih Fen Gavala
Founder | Support Worker
"I can't recommend Shih Fen highly enough as an NDIS disability support worker. She brings a rare combination of diligence and genuine care to everything she does—always practical in her approach, but never losing sight of the person she's supporting.
What stands out most is how safe and supported she makes me feel. Knowing that Shih Fen is in my corner gives me real confidence and peace of mind. She is incredibly easy to work with, and her consistent, dependable nature means I always know I'm in good hands.
If you're looking for a support worker who truly goes above and beyond, Shih Fen is exactly that."
-Participant
“Shih Fen consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to person-centred support and brings a thoughtful, proactive approach to her work. She shows a clear understanding of behaviour support principles and applies strategies with both consistency and care. This has contributed to a strong working relationship and has supported the delivery of consistent, high-quality care."
CLAUDIA GENTLE
Behaviour Support Practioner