Year 11 te reo Māori students from Wellington Girls’ College and Wellington College recently took part in an Inspiring the Future event at Horouta Marae, getting to kōrero with Māori role models from across the workforce. The event was part of a noho marae – for many of the students, it was their first time experiencing te ao Māori in this way.
With role models sharing their journey and mahi, the tauira were fully engaged, asking thoughtful questions and soaking up the kōrero. It was a powerful opportunity for them to see how te reo Māori and Māoritanga can be woven into different workplaces and career paths.
Louise Baker, Head of Department Te Reo Māori at Wellington Girls’, says, “The idea for this event came about during a casual walk with a friend, who mentioned her workplace cultural advisor’s involvement in the Inspiring the Future kaupapa. From that kōrero, the spark was lit – I knew it would be the perfect addition to our upcoming noho for te reo Māori students.”
Adding their own twists
Louise says they followed the suggested event format, but “thanks to the flexibility of the programme, we were able to add our own twists to the sessions.
“Each role model answered 20 questions from the students. Only one role model was in the room at a time for question time, which allowed for focused and meaningful conversations. Our students came well prepared, full of curiosity and enthusiasm. While this format meant less time for small discussion groups, the depth of engagement during the Q&A sessions was worth it.”
The power of real stories
Louise reflects: “The event delivered countless hua (benefits). Students were inspired by the mahi of our role models, especially seeing how te reo Māori and tikanga Māori are woven into their professional lives. Hearing how whakapapa Māori shaped their journeys was powerful, showing our tauira that success can mean walking confidently in both worlds.
“Every role model brought something unique: personal stories, vulnerability and a wealth of experience. Together, they created an authentic and rich learning space that deepened understanding and lifted spirits.
“It was an incredible experience that left a lasting impact on our tauira and kaiako.”
Why you should get involved
Louise recommends that anyone who is considering hosting an Inspiring the Future event should “go for it”.
She says, “The support from Hanna and the Inspiring the Future team was incredible and the role models were outstanding. This experience was truly special for our tauira and kaiako – one we’ll remember for a long time.”
Kaupapa Māori career ideas at Tahatū Career Navigator
Tahatū Career Navigator, the Tertiary Education Commission’s new career planning website, features a selection of kaupapa Māori career ideas that embrace te ao Māori language, skills and knowledge. Te reo Māori, tikanga Māori and mātauranga Māori are at the centre of every kaupapa Māori career idea. For more information, visit Tahatū Career Navigator.
Keen to host a reo Māori Inspiring the Future event for your kura?
We would love to support your kura to host an event like this for your tauira.