As an Aotearoa/ New Zealand educator, I see it as vital that I take steps to learn our indigenous language. In a broad way, it will allow me to better understand and support our ākonga Māori, while allowing me to engage with whānau, hapū and iwi to work towards better learning outcomes for Māori. This is part of my effort as a kaiako to address the negative statistics of Māori in education. This is a big reason why I entered teaching when I did.

Te ao Māori is woven into the Māori language, and so it is a taonga and a tool for Māori to preserve their sovereignty. We must be open to learning te reo Māori in order to ensure its survival - so that it may run strong for future generations

Finally, as a part wahine Māori, it is an endeavour for me to better connect with my own Māori heritage. I know my tipuna would be proud to see this.

Arohamai.