Shannel Yorke
Oral Health Therapist, Te Manu Toroa Kaupapa Māori Dental Services
Bachelor of Health Science (Oral Health)
Her drive to pursue a career in oral health started when she was little, says Shannel Yorke who is now an oral health therapist at Te Manu Toroa Kaupapa Māori Dental Services.
“I attended Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Matai, a kura located in Waitangi, a small village on the outskirts of Te Puke. There was a fixed dental clinic that occupied a space at our kura where a lovely dental therapist, Nēhi Bridgette, worked. I loved going to see her and would get excited when my name was called to go to the dentist. My desire to work in dentistry was born from this positive experience. Many years later I reconnected with Nēhi Bridgette, going from being her patient to now being a colleague. I hope to be an oral health therapist who inspires future rangatahi just as she did for me.
“Another reason I was interested in a career in oral health was my daughter. In the town where we live, Te Puke, many of the jobs are seasonal and I wanted a career that promised more stability so that I can provide an amazing life for my darling. At the time I had only recently become a widow and solo mother, and I wanted to show her that even in the depths of despair we can rise from the trauma and take the reins in our life.”
She loves the positive impact she can make through her work.
“Treating whānau who have never received dental education or care before, and then seeing the immediate improvement in their oral health and confidence, is incredibly rewarding. It solidifies my belief in early intervention and patient education as cornerstones of effective oral health therapy. Working within our local communities and networking with other providers to ensure a wrap-around service for whānau has been gratifying.”
A transformative journey
Shannel says coming to AUT to study a Bachelor of Health Science (Oral Health) was an easy decision for her.
“Auckland is only three hours north of my rural hometown of Te Puke, which was pivotal in my decision for choosing AUT. I loved that AUT presented a rigorous curriculum and comprehensive preparation for a rewarding career in oral health. The programme’s focus on dental hygiene, therapy, preventive care and patient education aligned perfectly with my career aspirations. AUT, including the dental clinics and simulation labs, offered unparalleled opportunities for hands-on learning and skill development. Moreover, AUT’s reputation for excellence in healthcare education further solidified my decision.”
Her AUT journey was defined by transformative experiences and meaningful connections, she says.
“The tragic loss of my fiancé, who was also the father of our daughter, occurred before I embarked on my educational journey. Despite facing this immense personal challenge, AUT was understanding of my circumstances and provided a supportive environment that enabled me to thrive academically and personally.
“One standout moment for me was during my clinical rotations when I witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of preventive dental care on patients’ lives. Another enlightening experience came during a research project on community dental health disparities. Engaging with local communities highlighted the many inequalities in access to dental care and education. These lightbulb moments have not only shaped my approach to oral health but have also fuelled my determination to make a positive impact in the field, ensuring that every patient receives the highest standard of care possible.”
Advice for other students
Having graduated from AUT at the end of 2022, Shannel has some great advice for other students.
“My advice is to trust yourself. Trust in your abilities as a learner and know that you really can achieve your goals.”
There is also a particular whakatauki she lives by.
“Whaia te iti kahurangi ki te tuohu koe me he Maunga teitei.”
