BIO Mariana Torres de la Orta, our managing director, is an enthusiast and tenacious doer who genuinely cares and connects with people. Described as passionate and highly sensitive, Mariana faces a silent immunological disability that has changed her vision of life and has led her to be more understanding and compassionate towards people.
‘After being diagnosed with and treated for Lupus, my zest for life began to increase exponentially. As my sense of wellbeing increased, I recognised that I was entirely capable and able to follow my dreams because of the support I received. I became stronger and better as a result of the challenges I faced. A sudden realisation struck me… because life is limited, it was vital for me to follow my heart. From that point on I decided to do what I love so that I could make a difference in this world.
I have always believed that the human spirit is powerful. By taking responsibility for my life, by being courageous enough to follow my heart and intuition, I started on a new path. It wasn’t easy but it enabled me to grow strong – mentally, emotionally and spiritually. I learned that when we live our lives with passion and integrity, we can fulfil our dreams from a place of personal autonomy and authority’.
Mariana
Mariana has been fortunate to work for many organisations, both nationally and internationally, and across various sectors which include Social and Community Services (mental health, aged care and disability support services), Travel and Tourism, and Recreation sectors. She has worked with and supported the wellbeing of orphaned children in Mexico so that they could feel cared for, realise their potential and work toward their own dreams from a place of hope.
Mariana has worked for Australia’s largest international non-government organisation, World Vision Australia, to help tackle the root causes of poverty through community development, relief and advocacy to transform the lives of those who are disadvantaged and marginalised.
Mariana has also been successfully employed as a support worker and local area coordinator in the disability sector. She also has a keen interest in policy and representation and has actively engaged in the development of the Federal Mental Health Act for The Department of Human Services in Victoria since 2013.
Mariana was fortunate to secure a VIP customer service role with Disney World® Resort in the USA, one of the world’s most innovative entertainment and prestigious training organisations. Here she learned about excellence and quality in customer service, human appreciation, reward and recognition.
Mariana has a Master of Social Work from The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University, a Postgraduate Diploma in International Community Development from the Victoria University and an undergraduate degree in Tourism. Mariana’s other professional achievements also include Foreign exchange consultancy, foreign-language instruction and team leadership.
