Braden is a registered social worker and has extensive experience in the child protection and family violence sector. Braden is passionate about supporting tamariki and whānau wellbeing and has a Doctor of Social Work degree in this area.

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Braden was previously working as the Kaiwhakahaere Chief Executive for the Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers. Braden is currently also General Manager of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Trust NZ.