Manaini iTaukei Fijian. She hails from Nasau, Moce, Lau; vasu i (maternal links) Nailaga, Ba and was born and raised in Fiji.

Manaini is dedicated to driving educational equity in Aotearoa and has been working to support ākonga to have the learning experiences they deserve for over a decade. She has worked in Pacific, foundation, vocational and Corrections-based education settings. Her focus on supporting under-served learners and designing inclusive learning programmes has led her to senior learning designer and advisory roles. Manaini came to Hanga-Aro-Rau from WorkSafe New Zealand, where she worked as a Senior Advisor in the Education Development team.

Manaini is a wife, daughter, sister, friend, and passionate Nana Lailai (aunt) to her nephews, whom she helps raise. She loves spending time with her matavuvale (family) and friends, loves good Fijian food, good music and cheesy Hallmark Channel movies!