Courtney Paovale

Bachelor of Social Work (Biculturalism in practice), Master of Human Rights with honours (First class)

Position

Senior Lecturer

Teaching area

Social Work

Biography

Courtney is a proud Samoan, Cook Islands Māori wahine who was born and raised South Auckland. She has a Social Work background, working in various roles throughout her career including the disability sector, with rangatahi, and in child protection. Courtney joined the Social Work lecturing team in mid-2026.

Why I love MIT

I love that it is in the heart of South Auckland and caters to our Māori, Pasifika, and migrant whanau.

Research interests

Youth, Pasifika and Māori, Human rights

Memberships and affiliations

Social Workers Registration Board (SWRB)