Real Conversations. Real Pathways. Real Opportunities.

At Puatala, our mission is clear: Building Better Lives through Real Opportunities. That mission came to life during a recent Career Experience Day co-hosted with Metlifecare Edgewater Village.

A group of high school students were welcomed into a working retirement village environment — not to sit and observe, but to engage, ask questions, and connect. They met people across a range of roles and heard honest, real stories about the career journeys that led them there. These were not formal presentations. They were real conversations, grounded in trust, openness, and belief in young people.

That sense of authenticity shaped the entire day. The Edgewater team shared openly, creating a space where students felt comfortable, supported, and encouraged to think differently about their future options. It was a reminder of how powerful genuine conversation can be when young people are given the chance to be heard.

The success of the day was intentional. It came from thoughtful planning, clear communication, and a shared commitment to doing things properly. These are values Puatala holds strongly — reliability, professionalism, and partnerships built on trust.

What stood out most was how hands-on the experience was. Students didn’t just hear about career pathways — they experienced them. They saw how roles connect, how people grow into positions, and how workplaces function day to day. This approach brings career pathways to life in a way the classroom alone cannot.

This is what Building Better Lives looks like in practice. It starts with curiosity, grows through connection, and leads to real opportunities. Puatala is proud to create these moments and to work alongside partners who share our values and commitment to young people.