MEET THE TEAM: 5 minutes with Tameka
Tell us about yourself and how you found yourself part of Neighbourhood:
Hi, my name is Tameka and I’m from the Cayman Islands. I’m currently a student at the University of Otago majoring in Law and Accounting. My favourite colour is pink. I have lots of hobbies and interests but a few include weight lifting, modelling, practicing karate and free diving (although I’m a little out of practice because I find the ocean so cold here).
I came across Neighbourhood’s Instagram page earlier this year and was inspired by the work they do. I’m passionate about giving back to my community in such a creative and meaningful way and Neighbourhood was the perfect fit! I truly believe in Neighbourhood’s vision and I’m excited for the year ahead.
Describe yourself in three words:
Kind
Brave
Adventurous
What is a cause/issue/movement that you feel passionately about?
I’m passionate about creating tangible change and positive impact around mental health issues and the environment.
Who or what has influenced you the most?
Definitely my dad, I’m a mini version of him! And my many years of karate training has definitely shaped me into the person I am today.
If someone I love is down, I cheer them up by...
Letting them know I’m here for them. Listening if they want to talk or just being a shoulder
to lean on. Having a cup of tea and doing something fun together.
Somewhere that you’ve never been to in Aotearoa that you’d like to visit?
I did a North Island trip with one of my best friends and I absolutely loved it. I would
definitely like to explore it more, Poor Knights Island is at the top of the list.
Something that relaxes me when I’m feeling stressed is..
The beach
A good gym sesh
Dancing
Meditation
Or being really organised and breaking the task down into more manageable parts so it’s not so overwhelming
What is something you’re grateful for?
So much! My family, friends, the beach, sunshine and warm weather, my cats, borders being
open and more trips overseas!
The last thought that kept you awake at night was...
I really like to sleep so nothing really keeps me awake at night!
Do you have any strange and completely irrational fears?
My number one fear is snakes, definitely not a fan. Bees, but I think bumble-bees are cute.
And heights, but I love the adrenaline rush from adrenaline rush activities, I would 100% recommend paragliding.
My idea of heaven is...
Sunset swims, especially in the Cayman Islands.
What is something you’re excited about at the moment?
Travelling more. Our next Neighbourhood campaigns and all the goodness in the works!
Favourite song on your playlist right now?
I currently don’t have a favourite song, but when I do it usually changes every couple of
weeks because I listen to it too much.
