ABOUT US
Our Journey
Manaaki Pathways is a small disability support provider based in New South Wales specialising in ADL support. We are a values-led built on the principles of manaakitanga - hospitality, dignity, and kindness. We focus on building relationships and supporting you to live life on your terms.
Our founder brings over 7 years in the disability sector, ongoing professional development, continuously trained in trauma-informed practice, safeguarding, and person-centred support. We are a committed to staying current with best practice.
We have experience supporting people living with psychosocial, complex mental health challenges and mild to moderate intellectual disability particularly those wanting to live safely and independently in the community.
We translate positive strategies into everyday practice.
We proudly support NDIS participants through:
-
Daily Living Support
-
Personal Care
-
Community Access
-
Complex and Psychosocial Support
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.
Our Team
Get to know us
Shih Fen Gavala
Founder & Support Worker
Joanne Mckay
Support Worker
Shih Fen Gavala
Founder & Support Worker
Joanne Mckay
Support Worker
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
What people say about us
"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