Key learnings from the ACA conference – from NZTC’s Health & Wellbeing programme leader Vaidehi Dave

NZTC was proud to be represented at the 2025 Aged Care Association (ACA) Conference held at Te Pae in Ōtautahi Christchurch — a national gathering that brought together teachers, health professionals, and sector leaders under the theme Creating Change. 

Attending on behalf of the College, Vaidehi Dave, Programme Leader for Health and Wellbeing, shared powerful insights that not only reflect the evolving aged-care landscape, but also reinforce the core values behind NZTC’s own programmes in Health and Wellbeing and Early Childhood Education. 

“Our qualifications are grounded in whole-person care — supporting the physical, emotional, cultural, and spiritual wellbeing of those we serve,” Vaidehi says. “The conference confirmed that this approach isn’t just relevant — it’s essential to the future of care in Aotearoa.” 

People-centred care starts with partnership 

One of the most resonant themes from the conference was the idea that care is not transactional — it’s relational. 

“We don’t just look after residents,” Vaidehi explains. “We walk alongside them — honouring their mana, autonomy, and dignity.” 

This perspective aligns directly with NZTC’s educational philosophy, where learners are equipped to support individuals holistically — whether working in residential aged care, community settings, or whānau environments. 

Culturally grounded practice 

Waiata, Te Ao Māori values, and storytelling were woven throughout the conference, deepening the message that true healing incorporates identity, culture, and connection. 

“Spirituality and culture aren’t add-ons in aged care — they are the foundation of wellbeing,” Vaidehi reflects. “As an educator, this reaffirmed how vital it is that our graduates understand and integrate cultural safety into their daily practice.” 

NZTC’s programmes embed bicultural understanding and inclusive practice, preparing students to meet the diverse needs of our communities with empathy and cultural competence. 

Empowering IQNs and emerging professionals 

A major discussion point at the conference was the need to support internationally qualified nurses (IQNs) and new graduates — a cohort that is vital to the future of the aged-care workforce. 

“IQNs bring capability, resilience, and cultural depth,” says Vaidehi. “But they need structured support to thrive.” 

NZTC’s flexible, online learning model and experienced academic team support learners from all backgrounds, including those transitioning into the New Zealand healthcare environment. 

Building a sustainable and compassionate workforce 

From leadership development and burnout prevention to inclusive staffing models, the ACA Conference made one thing clear — the future of care relies on people feeling valued and supported. 

As one speaker powerfully noted: “We don’t fix staffing by filling rosters — we fix it by building belonging.” 

Looking ahead 

For Vaidehi, the conference was both a professional milestone and a personal renewal. 

“I left with a deeper commitment to mentoring, advocating, and championing whole-person care,” she shares. “This aligns with NZTC’s mission to educate not just skilled professionals — but compassionate changemakers.”