October 8, 2024

Student Internship Experience at Whakauae Research Services

Tēnā koe, ko Tomairangi tōku ingoa. He uri ahau nō Rotorua, i te taha o tōku Pāpā. I te taha o tōku Māmā, he uri ahau nō Kāwhia me Te Kopuru, and I am currently studying a Creative Writing major with a Te Reo Māori minor at Te Wānanga Aronui o Tāmaki Makau Rau. As part of the AUT Work Integrated Learning programme I’ve had the privilege of interning with Whakauae Research Services, where I’ve worked alongside the TUI dissemination team.

The Work Integrated Learning programme is designed to give students like myself the opportunity to apply our academic skills and knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing both personal and professional growth. Through this internship, I’ve been able to take part in several impactful initiatives that connect deeply with Māori communities and public health, while also contributing to the research-driven mission of Whakauae.

During my time here, I’ve been given the opportunity to interview rangatahi Māori about their well-being and their connection to te ao Māori. These interviews have been incredibly eye-opening, providing valuable insights into the aspirations and challenges faced by young Māori today. Using these interviews, I was tasked with drafting and editing a compilation of stories, capturing the essence of the voices I was privileged to hear. These stories will hopefully serve as a powerful resource for Whakauae and contribute to shaping future wellbeing strategies for rangatahi.

Additionally, I was entrusted with project managing an animated video that contextualises Whakauae’s TUI (Translation, Uptake, and Impact) framework. This has been an exciting challenge, allowing me to develop new skills in project coordination and creative storytelling. Working on this project has expanded my understanding of how complex ideas and frameworks can be translated into accessible, engaging content for various audiences.

The supportive environment at Whakauae has been incredibly rewarding. They have nurtured my professional development, providing me with the tools and guidance I needed to grow. Just as importantly, they have been attentive to my personal well-being, encouraging a balanced and positive experience throughout the internship.

I’ve loved being part of an organisation that not only values research but also respects and uplifts the voices of Māori. My time at Whakauae has not only honed my creative and project management skills but has also strengthened my connection to te ao Māori and my own Māori identity. This internship has been an invaluable experience, and I look forward to applying what I’ve learned in my future career.

Ngā mihi nui to Whakauae Research Services for this incredible opportunity

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Student Internship Experience at Whakauae Research Services
Tom Johnson and Tomairangi Morgan

Tēnā koe, ko Tomairangi tōku ingoa. He uri ahau nō Rotorua, i te taha o tōku Pāpā. I te taha o tōku Māmā, he uri ahau nō Kāwhia me Te Kopuru, and I am currently studying a Creative Writing major with a Te Reo Māori minor at Te Wānanga Aronui o Tāmaki Makau Rau. As part of the AUT Work Integrated Learning programme I’ve had the privilege of interning with Whakauae Research Services, where I’ve worked alongside the TUI dissemination team.

The Work Integrated Learning programme is designed to give students like myself the opportunity to apply our academic skills and knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing both personal and professional growth. Through this internship, I’ve been able to take part in several impactful initiatives that connect deeply with Māori communities and public health, while also contributing to the research-driven mission of Whakauae.

During my time here, I’ve been given the opportunity to interview rangatahi Māori about their well-being and their connection to te ao Māori. These interviews have been incredibly eye-opening, providing valuable insights into the aspirations and challenges faced by young Māori today. Using these interviews, I was tasked with drafting and editing a compilation of stories, capturing the essence of the voices I was privileged to hear. These stories will hopefully serve as a powerful resource for Whakauae and contribute to shaping future wellbeing strategies for rangatahi.

Additionally, I was entrusted with project managing an animated video that contextualises Whakauae’s TUI (Translation, Uptake, and Impact) framework. This has been an exciting challenge, allowing me to develop new skills in project coordination and creative storytelling. Working on this project has expanded my understanding of how complex ideas and frameworks can be translated into accessible, engaging content for various audiences.

The supportive environment at Whakauae has been incredibly rewarding. They have nurtured my professional development, providing me with the tools and guidance I needed to grow. Just as importantly, they have been attentive to my personal well-being, encouraging a balanced and positive experience throughout the internship.

I’ve loved being part of an organisation that not only values research but also respects and uplifts the voices of Māori. My time at Whakauae has not only honed my creative and project management skills but has also strengthened my connection to te ao Māori and my own Māori identity. This internship has been an invaluable experience, and I look forward to applying what I’ve learned in my future career.

Ngā mihi nui to Whakauae Research Services for this incredible opportunity

Download the file
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