Sophia Olo-Whaanga (Te Waiohua, Waikato-Tainui, Ngati Kahungunu ki Wairoa), brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to social procurement initiatives. With a background in environmental science, her commitment to preserving natural resources is coupled with building capacity of iwi Māori and a deep understanding of Te Ao Māori.

Sophia's journey includes active involvement in building Iwi capacity throughout the motu through partnerships, guiding ecological restoration and mentoring rangatahi. Her leadership extends to projects fostering collaboration between kaumatua and rangatahi, centered around the conservation of New Zealand's native species. These experiences, combined with her recent role as Social Responsibility Manager, position Sophia as an invaluable asset to Puna Awarau efforts to drive meaningful iwi collaboration through sustainable and social procurement practices.