Mother's Day celebrations go deep for mother and daughter team Sarah Naqova and Madison Dick-Naqova, both Barnardos Aotearoa teachers.

Dick-Naqova is based at the Barnardos Wellington Central Early Learning Centre on Webb Street, Te Aro, while mum, Naqova, is centre manager at the Barnardos Kaikoura Early Learning Centre.

Having managed the Hornby Pasifika Centre in Christchurch, Naqova moved back to Kaikōura to manage the Kaikōura centre a couple of years ago and says "it felt like returning home to whanau".

Both women share a passion for early childhood education and enjoyed celebrating Mother's Day, both personally, and professionally.

The Kaikōura centre celebrated Mother's Day by making candles for children to give to an important person in their lives. Naqova said it could be an aunty or a dad.

"It's about making sure children who might not have their mums in their lives still feel included and supported:'

Dick-Naqova celebrated the occasion similarly in Wellington.

"By creating beautiful art for tamariki to take home and give to their most special person."

In her earlier years, daughter, Dick-Naqova faced challenges of her own, when at age 16 she lost her hearing in one ear from a diving incident in Kaikōura, receiving a cochlear implant to help with her sense of direction. She says the experience shaped how she practises as a teacher.

"I can advocate for tamariki who can't speak for themselves. I want to support and uplift tamariki and help them feel included, to ensure they all have equitable access and experiences that offer them space to thrive in their own way:' Dick-Naqova says early learning sets the foundation for life.

"I love the milestones - it is really rewarding seeing tamariki grow, and to be part of their learning journey."

Celebrating Mother's Day for her personally meant celebrating her mum.

"The best role model, my friend, and the most constructive yet honest mentor in both work and life. She's my biggest supporter and has helped me through some really tricky times. I'm most grateful for the life and experiences she's been able to give me. I wouldn't be where I am today if my parents hadn't made the sacrifices they did."

Story written by Susie Milne - Kaikōura Star

Mother and daughter's shared passion for teaching