Maata Hamiora
Ngāti Raukawa ki Wharepūhunga, Tūhourangi-Ngāti Wāhiao, Ngāti Whakaue
Programmes Administrator
Kia ora, ko Maata Hamiora tōku ingoa! He uri ahau nō Ngāti Raukawa ki Wharepūhunga, Tūhourangi-Ngāti Wāhiao me Ngāti Whakaue hoki.
I am currently in my final year of studying towards a Bachelor of Arts, double majoring in Psychology and Criminology. The lessons learnt from these subjects have broadened my horizons and have challenged my perspectives into motivating what we can do better for Māori in both the criminal justice system and mental health services.
My focus as an intern at Toi Māori Aotearoa is to work closely with Māori artists and kaupapa. Providing coordination and administrative support to artists, communities and stakeholders. To be part of an organisation that embodies tikanga Māori and prioritises all forms of Māori arts and artists, I am excited to gain invaluable skills & lessons and be exposed to Māori artists, kaupapa and exhibitions.
Post-Internship Statement:
If you’ve missed your ‘Māori Place’, Toi Māori Aotearoa is the place to come and settle that hesitation.
This internship gave me insight into how involved Toi Māori Aotearoa is with all forms of Māori art. Ranging from our Māori weavers, moko artists, kaupapa waka, to tikanga, writing and many more, I believe this space is a good starting point for anyone that wants to get to know the Maōri world: this space showcases the way Māori express and preserve Māori traditions and culture.
The highlight, hands-down, was being in a te ao Māori space. Its heartwarming being able to work in an office with Māori for Māori people.
