Ko Te Arawa te waka
Ko Ngongotahā te maunga
Ko Te Rotorua-nui-a Kahumatamomoe te moana
Ko Te Arawa te iwi
Ko Ngāti Whakaue te hapū
Ko Te Papaiouru te marae
Ko Ben Barton ahau
My research journey began in 2021, during my second year of Health Science studies, majoring in Psychology at AUT, when I was offered a research assistant position at the University of Auckland. The projects I contributed to, which focused on Māori identity and political science, closely aligned with my own personal exploration and reconnection with my Māori identity at the time.
In 2023, I was honoured to be selected as a winter scholarship student by Whakauae, and soon after, I received a Masters scholarship, which I am currently pursuing at Victoria University. In 2024, I was offered a permanent researcher role at Whakauae—my proudest achievement to date.
My passion lies in exploring the intersection of takatāpui and Māori identity, particularly the layers of stigma that affect access to healthcare. This research aims to uncover critical gaps in the health system, ultimately paving the way for more inclusive and effective care in Aotearoa. Through my findings, I hope to develop new culturally competent health initiatives and policies that address these gaps and promote greater well-being for Māori.
I am deeply grateful to my Whakauae whānau for recognising potential in me that I hadn’t yet seen in myself and for their unwavering support and guidance on my journey toward Māori excellence in research.
Whaowhia te kete mātauranga.
