Born and raised in Morrinsville and now based in Ōpōtiki, I’m a passionate advocate for rangatahi, working to establish Ōpōtiki Rangatahi Pā, a youth-led, whānau-supported kaupapa grounded in tikanga Māori. This creative and healing space empowers young people to build identity, find belonging, and grow into future leaders.

I’m currently completing He Waka Hiringa, a kaupapa Māori Master’s degree in Applied Indigenous Knowledge through Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. My project focuses on developing the Rangatahi Pā, weaving together mātauranga Māori, storytelling, atua Māori, and wraparound support to create lasting social impact.

My journey has been shaped by both deep aroha and the intergenerational effects of colonisation. I am committed to reconnection, through whakapapa, te ao Māori, and purpose. Supporting this mahi means investing in healing, leadership, and a future where our tamariki know who they are and where they belong.

Granted July 2025