Profile
Robin Hapi (Ngāti Kahungunu) is a prominent Māori leader who received the Insignia of a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori, the community and governance. Robin is the Chair of the Māori Economic Development Advisory Group, Board Member of the Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency; Chair of Kāinga Ora and a member of the Te Pou Matakana Board. Robin has been a proud advocate for the Pūhoro kaupapa since its inception in 2016.
When did you join Pūhoro?
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Advice for your Rangatahi
If you were an element, what element would
you be and why?
Profile
Dr Will Edwards (Ngāruahine, Taranaki, Te Pakakohi, Tangahoe, Ngāti Ruanui) has worked extensively across the Māori development sector. He spent three years in post-doctoral study, researching the use of mātauranga Māori alongside Western science and achieved degrees in horticulture and Māori language, a Masters in Māori and Development Studies, and a Public Health PhD on Māori positive ageing.
When did you join Pūhoro?
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Advice for your Rangatahi
If you were an element, what element would
you be and why?
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Tā Mark Solomon (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Kuri) is a prominent Māori leader whose commitment to and advocacy for the Māori economy led to his recognition as a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Māori and Business in 2013. Tā Mark’s core philosophy is ‘strength with humility’ reflected in his belief that a true rangatira is a servant of the people
When did you join Pūhoro?
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Advice for your Rangatahi
If you were an element, what element would
you be and why?
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Professor Tahu Kukutai (Ngāti Tiipa, Ngāti Kinohaku, Te Aupōuri) is the Co-Director of Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga and a Professor of Demography at the University of Waikato. Tahu specialises in Māori and Indigenous demographic research and is a founding member of Te Mana Raraunga (the Māori Data Sovereignty Network) and the Global Indigenous Data Alliance. Tahu is a former journalist and has degrees in History, Demography and Sociology from the University of Waikato and Stanford University
When did you join Pūhoro?
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Advice for your Rangatahi
If you were an element, what element would
you be and why?
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Jymal (Ngāi Tahu, Te Whakatōhea) is an experienced executive with 15+ years contribution to science, research and innovation. Jymal is currently the General Manager Māori Impact Group at ESR (Institute of Environmental Science and Research) and has built a career working alongside Māori organisations at the interface of the wider economy to create sustainable futures for us and for those who come after. He is passionate about advancing Aotearoa New Zealand’s social, cultural and economic prosperity through leveraging the cultural assets of both Māori and non-Māori. Jymal is a graduate of Te Panekiretanga o te Reo and holds post-graduate qualifications in Development Studies and Strategic Management from the University of Waikato. He has attended executive courses at MIT Sloan School of Management (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) and at Stanford Woods Iinstitute for the Environment, and has a growing catalogue of governance and advisor roles across the Māori economy sector.
When did you join Pūhoro?
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Advice for your Rangatahi
If you were an element, what element would
you be and why?
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Dame Farah Palmer (Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Waiora, Ngāti Mahuta ki te Hauāuru), is a distinguished academic and former elite rugby player, currently serving as Executive Director in Māori Student Success at Massey University. She is renowned for her groundbreaking role as the former captain of New Zealand’s women's national rugby union team, the Black Ferns, and for being the first female board member of Rugby New Zealand, appointed in December 2016. Farah boasts an impressive educational background, holding a Doctor of Philosophy and a Bachelor of Physical Education (First Class Honours) from Otago University. She is a prominent leader in various research and educational capacities, including as Acting Director of Te Au Rangahau (the Māori Business Research Centre) at Massey University, and as an Executive Board member of Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga at the University of Auckland. Additionally, she is involved with Te Mata o te Tau (the Academy for Māori Research and Scholarship) and honoured with the title of Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (DNZM) in 2022 for her contributions to sport, particularly rugby.
When did you join Pūhoro?
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Advice for your Rangatahi
If you were an element, what element would
you be and why?
Pepeha
Ko Ngāti Kahungunu, ko Ngāi Tahu, ko Ngāti Raukawa, ko Te Arawa ngā iwi
Profile
Keeper of the Light Sabers
When did you join Pūhoro?
2016
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
The tikanga, the manaakitanga, and especially the drive of the tauira as they cultivate a passion for STEM subjects and pursue that which they once thought was unattainable.
Advice for our rangatahi
Ko te pae tawhiti, whāia kia tata. Ko te pae tata, whakamaua kia tina. Pursue the distant pathways of your dreams so they may become your reality.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Nobelium - It was named in honour of Alfred Nobel who invented dynamite, and sometimes I can be a bit of a firecracker.
Pepeha
Ko Tararua ngā pae maunga
Ko Rangitīkei te awa
Ko Tainui te waka
Ko Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga te iwi
Ko Ōhinepuhiawe te rohe
Ko Parewahawaha te marae
Ko Parewahawaha te tangata
Ko Ngāti Parewahawaha te hapū
Profile
Main dishwasher!
When did you join Pūhoro?
September 2018
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Helping make a difference for Aotearoa and the world!
Advice for our rangatahi
Stay in school!
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Iron, because I am stubborn
Pepeha
Ko Ngāpuhi, ko Ngāti Porou, ko Ngāti Kahungunu, ko Rangitāne ngā iwi
I whānau au ki Heretaunga
I tipu ake au i Te Papaioea
E noho ana au ki Tāmaki Makaurau ināianei
Profile
Just another 'Fortnite carry' in my dad era
When did you join Pūhoro?
2018
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
It has reconnected me to te ao Māori and our awesome rangatahi!
Advice for our rangatahi
Stay true to who you are, and continue to pave the way for those who will follow in your footsteps
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Sodium – When you ask me to pass the table salt, all I’ll say is “Na”. [dry Pā]
Pepeha
Ngāi Tū te Aru, Te Whānau a Hunaara, Ngāti Pāhauwera, Ngāti Mairehau
Profile
Dad Joke Advisor and Food Cross-Contamination Officer
When did you join Pūhoro?
2015
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Seeing rangatahi Māori realise their potential and seeing how this transforms both their lives and the lives of their whānau and community
Advice for our rangatahi
‘Too many people are willing to carry the footstool, when there is a piano to be taken’ – Never shy away from hard work
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Ir (Iridium) because it is the most corrosive-resistant element known, meaning, it is not affected by water, chemicals or acids. There are many elements that change under different stressors and conditions, and while this lends to the beauty of the world we live in, I also appreciate that there is one that is not affected and remains constant, unchanging and enduring – qualities that perhaps complement some of my own personal characteristics.
Pepeha
Ko Wharepūhunga, ko Tararua ngā maunga
Ko Pūniu, ko Manawatū ngā awa
Ko Raukawa ki Wharepūhunga, ko Ngāti Raukawa Te Au ki te Tonga ngā iwi
Ko Ngāti Takihiku (ki uta), ko Ngāti Takihiku (ki tai) ngā hapū
Ko Aotearoa, ko Rāwhitiroa, ko Kererū ngā marae
Profile
Chief Argument Winner (with my husband) 😜
When did you join Pūhoro?
February 2022
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Working with other Māori on a kaupapa that makes a difference and helps transform the lives of rangatahi – what’s not to love about that?!
Advice for our rangatahi
Know your worth, dream big, set goals, work hard, have fun, and make your tūpuna proud!
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Liquid helium because it’s literally the coolest one 😎 (forming at −268.9 °C)
Pepeha
Rere kau mai te awa nui
Mai i te Kāhui Maunga ki Tangaroa
Ko au te awa, ko te awa ko au
Profile
Unofficial euchre champion of the world
When did you join Pūhoro?
January 2022
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Helping tauira Māori succeed and define what success means for them.
Advice for our rangatahi
What would you attempt if you knew you would not fail?
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Vibranium. It is a rare, naturally occurring metallic substance that possesses the ability to absorb all vibrations in the vicinity as well as kinetic energy directed at it, which is absorbed and stored within the bonds between its molecules. As a result, the more energy vibranium absorbs, the tougher it becomes. Wakanda forever! 🙅🏾♂️
Pepeha
Ko Hikurangi te maunga
Ko Wairua te awa
Ko Ngātokimatawhaorua te waka
Ko Matawaia, ko Kaikou ngā marae
Ko Ngāti Hine te hapū
Ko Ngāpuhi te iwi
Profile
Ngāpuhi Princess
When did you join Pūhoro?
2017
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love that our mahi never feels like mahi – it is a passion serving our people.
Advice for our rangatahi
Be your truest authentic self, always
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
I would be At – astatine as it is the rarest naturally occurring element in the earth's crust.
Pepeha
Ko Hikurangi te maunga
Ko Kaikou te awa
Ko Ngātokimatawhaorua te waka
Ko Ngāpuhi Nui Tonu te iwi
Ko Ngāti Hine te hapu
Ko Matawaia te marae
Profile
Jason Mamoa’s Stunt Double
When did you join Pūhoro?
June 2024
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
From our Kaihautu in the classrooms to our operations team behind the scenes, I know we all want to see rangatahi Māori elevate and become the best versions of themselves.
Advice for our rangatahi
"Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire."– Jennifer Lee
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
As a trained Kyoshi Warrior myself, specializing in the arts of STEMM, wizardry and yarns. The most effective and robust element on the table that would prove to be both versatile and impossible to contain is without a doubt……the element of “surprise” (smoke bomb)!
Pepeha
Ko Maunga Kākā te maunga
Ko Kokopito, ko Nohomanga ngā waiora o te whānau
Ko Hunaara te tangata
Ko Hunaara te hapū
Ko Mātahi o Te Tau te marae
Ko Ngāti Porou te iwi
Profile
The Ruwhiu Sister
When did you join Pūhoro?
February 2021
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love having the opportunity to support our rangatahi – encouraging them to be the best versions of themselves, without doubt and with all the confidence!
Advice for our rangatahi
Be positive, stand confident, believe in yourself and be happy!
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
GOLD. 🙂
Pepeha
Ko Maungakahia toku maunga
Ko Whangawehi toku awa
Ko Kurahaupō toku waka
Ko Rongomaiwahine toku iwi
Ko Ngāti Hikairo toku hapu
Ko Tuahuru raua ko Kaiuku oku marae
No Mahia ahau
Ko Liz toku ingoa
Profile
The Farm Girl
When did you join Pūhoro?
February 2024
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I get satisfaction when our tauira realise they can conquer their challenges. There’s a lot of fulfilment in seeing them develop their problem solving skills and confidence in STEMM.
Advice for our rangatahi
Choose a direction and follow through with it. It may not be what you end up doing, but working towards a goal will always make your life better.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
I would be Argon or Krypton because I like to think I'm both stable and noble.
Pepeha
Ki te taha o tōku pāpā
Ko Taupiri te maunga
Ko Waikato te awa
Ko Tainui te waka
Ko Waikato-Tainui te iwi
Ko Ngāti Amaru, ko Ngāti Tamaoho ngā hapū
Ko Te Awamarahi, ko Maurea ngā marae
Ko Hemopo tōku ingoa whānau
Whiti atu ki te taha o tōku māmā
Ko Ramaroa, ko Tautoro ngā maunga
Ko Whirinaki, ko Punakitere ngā awa
Ko Ngātokimatawhaorua te waka
Ko Ngāpuhi te iwi
Ko Ngāti Morewa, ko Te Hikutu ngā hapū
Ko Mahuhukiterangi, ko Moria ngā marae
Ko Morunga, ko Te Namu ōku ingoa whānau
Profile
The Walking Bicep
When did you join Pūhoro?
July 2020
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love that I can serve our Māori rangatahi and give them exposure to something that may not have been on their radar and assist them through a te ao Māori lens.
Advice for our rangatahi
Knowledge is having the right answer, but intelligence is asking the right questions.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
I would be Tungsten. Tungsten is conductive and resists corrosion. I like to conduct positive energy to everyone and resist the negativity that can often corrode a relationship.
Pepeha
Ko Putahi te maunga
Ko Ōmāpere te roto
Ko Ngātokimatawhaorua te waka
Ko Ngāpuhi te iwi
Profile
World Ranked #1 Marble Player (1995)
When did you join Pūhoro?
March 2022
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love that I have the opportunity to help rangatahi Māori realise their potential and make it a reality.
Advice for our rangatahi
You are created for a time such as this! Go forward and be YOU. Your time is now.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
I would be Oxygen because without me there would be no life to the party (bad dad joke, I’m sorry haha).
Pepeha
Ko Taupiri te maunga
Ko Waikato te awa
Ko Tainui te waka
Ko Tūrangawaewae te marae
Waikato taniwharau
He piko, he taniwha
He piko, he taniwha
Profile
CEO of being handsome
When did you join Pūhoro?
April 2022
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love that I’m working with my tēina here in my own rohe, and helping them get to where they want to go, and be what they want to be within the STEMM industries
Advice for our rangatahi
Just Keep Swimming. Whenever you come across something that stops you from getting where you want to go, just keep swimming
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Water. Because it fills the empty spot in everything
Pepeha
Ko Ruahine te maunga
Ko Ōroua te awa
Ko Tainui te waka
Ko Ngāti Kauwhata te iwi
Ko Kauwhata te marae
Ko Hinepare te hapū
Profile
Part-time Wizard of Hogwarts, Full-time Shinobi of the Hidden Leaf
When did you join Pūhoro?
June 2024
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love the environments our team have been able to create for students to completely thrive in being their authentic selves.
Advice for our rangatahi
“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” – Gandalf
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
I would be Tungsten (W) atomic number 74. Tungsten has the highest melting point of any metal and is used in lightbulbs – literally bringing light to dark places.
Pepeha
Ko Tainui te waka
Ko Maunga Tapu te maunga
Ko Maitai te awa
Ko Raukawa te moana
Ko Te Tauihu te rohe
Ko Whakatū te marae
Ko Kākati te whare tupuna
He uri ahau nō Ngāti Koata, nō Ngāti Toarangatira, nō Ngāti Kuia, nō Kai Tahu hoki
Profile
Resident Nerd and Gamer
When did you join Pūhoro?
March 2022
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love that all our efforts are about making the lives of our rangatahi better. It’s all about their future.
Advice for our rangatahi
Yes, you can. Because, you're amazing. Because, you're you.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
I would be Water (H20 or dihydro-oxide) because its both dangerous, beautiful and an absolute 100% necessity of life
Pepeha
Ko Taupiri te maunga
Ko Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa, ko Manukau ngā moana
Ko Waikato te awa
Ko Tainui te waka
Ko Waikato-Tainui te iwi
Ko Ngāti Te Ata te hapū
Nō Hāmoa hoki ahau
Profile
Sina ma le tuna
When did you join Pūhoro?
June 2022
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love the kaupapa of raising achievement for our Māori rangatahi. It’s great that our tauira are supported right up to their Pūhoro graduation and then are further supported at tertiary level with Te Urunga Pae. The opportunities that Pūhoro provide is just incredible – from internships to overseas experiences. You can really gauge the wide range that STEM provides through these experiences.
Advice for our rangatahi
We are all scientists. We whakapapa back to navigators who crossed vast waters to sail to Aotearoa. Using knowledge of the sun’s position, the stars, cloud formations and the swirls of the moana. Science is in our DNA, we just need to awaken it.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Magnesium as it’s an active metal that, when exposed to an open flame, ignites to produce a bright white light. I am the bright light for our rangatahi, helping them to realise their full potential
Pepeha
Ko Moumoukai te maunga
Ko Nūhaka te awa
Ko Tākitinu te waka
Ko Ngāti Kahungunu te iwi
Ko Rakaipaaka te hapū
Ko Kahungunu te marae
Profile
Basketball Guru
When did you join Pūhoro?
2020
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love being apart of something that will help elevate our rangatahi to reach their potential
Advice for our rangatahi
Anything worthwhile in life is never easy to obtain. Be ready and willing to work hard for it
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Titanium – I just think it sounds cool.
Pepeha
Ko Tākitimu te waka
Ko Kahurānaki te maunga
Ko Ngaruroro te awa
Ko Ngāti Kahungunu te iwi
Ko Ngāti Poporo te hapū
Ko Nukanoa te whare tipuna
Ko Korongata te marae
Profile
Korean Food Connoisseur
When did you join Pūhoro?
January 2022
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
It’s a pathway to whakamana our rangatahi Māori – a guide to help broaden their horizons.
Advice for our rangatahi
Good, better, best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better and your better is best.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
I would be Calcium. It’s vital for bones and teeth and it assists in muscle movement by carrying messages from the brain to all our body parts. Always strong, but I can support when needed for anywhere else.
Pepeha
Ko Ngāti Kahungunu ki Heretaunga, ko Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, ko Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi ngā iwi
Ko Ngāti Hinemanu, ko Ngāi te Upokoiri, ko Ngāti Pareraukawa ngā hapū
He Kuki Airini hoki ahau nō ngā motu o Rarotonga, o Mangaia, o Mauke, o Aitutaki, o Atiu anō hoki
Profile
Gang Awareness Operator
When did you join Pūhoro?
2020
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
This is the first work place where everyone can pronounce my name correctly. More importantly, that we are supporting rangatahi in their pursuits in the STEM industries and in turn challenging some of society’s perceived stereotypes of Māori.
Advice for our rangatahi
Give more than you take.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Krypton(ite) because even Superman has a weakness
Pepeha
Ko Te Ramaroa-ā-Kupe te maunga
Ko Whirinaki te awa
Ko Ngātokimatawhaorua te waka
Ko Moria te marae
Ko Te Hikutu te hapū
Ko Kupe te tangata
Ko Ngāpuhi nui tonu te iwi
Profile
Kapa Haka Guru
When did you join Pūhoro?
October 2021
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Everyone calling me by my full first name with ease. Encouraging rangatahi to achieve their aspirations. Normalising STEMM as mātauranga Māori.
Advice for our rangatahi
Believe in yourself and you can be whatever you aspire to be
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Neon – I shine/glow everywhere I go.
Pepeha
Ngāti Rangi, Te Āti Haunui-o-Pāpārangi, Waikato, Taranaki, Te Māhurehure
Profile
The Silent One
When did you join Pūhoro?
October 2022
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love the mahi that happens for our rangatahi. It's such an awesome kaupapa and the kaimahi are amazing!!
Advice for our rangatahi
Whatever you do and the choices you make, your tūpuna will be proud.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Carbon – carbon compounds regulate the Earth’s temperature, make up the food that sustains us, and provide energy that fuels our global economy.
Pepeha
Ko Tararua te maunga
Ko Ruamāhanga te awa
Ko Ngāti Kahungunu, ko Rangitāne ngā iwi
Ko Samuel Te Tau rāua ko Maureen Murphy ōku mātua
Profile
(Crazy) Cat lady through and through
When did you join Pūhoro?
I joined Pūhoro in 2017 as a year 12 student at PNGHS. I became a tutor in 2019, a Kaihautū in 2023 and now a Regional Lead in 2025.
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I’ve experienced the benefits of the programme, and know firsthand how life changing it can be. I love to help people, and through the Regional Lead position I can do this both directly and indirectly.
Advice for our rangatahi
I would encourage all rangatahi to follow their passion. It's also okay to change your mind, if you find your passion is falling, then switch it up! You don't know what you're capable of until you try – and Pūhoro sees your potential, so trust us when we say you will achieve great things.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
If I was an element, I would be Sodium – I took a quiz to find out. I guess I can be both stable and reactive when needed!
Pepeha
Ki te taha o tōku pāpā, ko Ngāti Tūwharetoa, ko Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi ngā iwi
Ki te taha o tōku māmā, ko Ngā Puhi, ko Ngāti Porou ki Harataunga ngā iwi
Profile
HIM
When did you join Pūhoro?
March 2024 (Pūhoro tauira 2017- 2019)
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Connecting with rangatahi Māori and encouraging them to be the best version of themselves, as well as the inclusiveness in the office space.
Advice for our rangatahi
Never undervalue who you are and NEVER underestimate what you are capable of... stay innnn ittt.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Rather than an element I’d be a compound – H20 Why, might you ask? Because everyone needs me to survive! Hehe
Pepeha
Ko Puketohunoa te maunga
Ko Taumarere te awa
Ko Ngātokimatawhaorua te waka
Ko Ngāpuhi te iwi
Ko Ngāti Manu te hapū
Ko Karetū te marae
Profile
‘Elite Report Writer’ & ‘Your favourite Kaihautū’s favourite Kaihautū’
When did you join Pūhoro?
2018 as a tauira and 2024 as a kaimahi
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love being able to engage with rangatahi, help shape their futures and put them on the right track to achieve highly. Being in this space also helps me feel connected to my whakapapa and makes me proud to be Māori! Also I love report writing…
Advice for our rangatahi
Celebrate the small wins, be proud of what you’ve done, but continue to improve. Take every opportunity that presents itself.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Neon (Ne) – because I shine bright and can beat N E one or N E thing that stands in my way.
Pepeha
Ko Moehau te maunga
Ko Tainui te waka
Ko Tikapa te moana
Ko Ngāti Tamaterā te iwi
Ko Ngāti Hako te hapū
I whānau mai au ki Pare Hauraki
Kei Foxton ahau e noho ana
Profile
Māmā Bear
When did you join Pūhoro?
2024
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Working for Pūhoro means being part of something bigger than myself. I love knowing that every day, I’m contributing to the growth of our tauira Māori – supporting them to stand strong in both te ao Māori and STEMM pathways.
Advice for our rangatahi
Explore. Discover. Grow. Your journey is yours – never stop dreaming and always be the best version of yourself!
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
I’d be Magnesium – strong, adaptable, and essential. Like Mg, I help spark ideas, support those around me, and keep things running behind the scenes.
Pepeha
Ko Hikurangi te maunga
Ko Waiapu te awa
Ko Horouta te waka
Ko Mangahānea te marae
Ko Te Whānau o Hinetāpora te hapū
Ko Ngāti Porou te iwi
Profile
Miss 2 Degrees
When did you join Pūhoro?
March 2021
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Throughout my life my family has always supported me in everything I wanted to do which I am so grateful for as I acknowledge that others don’t have the strongest support system. My goal coming into this job was to be able to give our tauira that encouragement and support that my family gave me, and be the light that they need to guide them on their journey. I love that I am not only able to give them that support but also be a role model to influence them into a STEM career path they may not have realised was possible – creating an intergenerational change for our tauira and future generations to come!
Advice for our rangatahi
You are powerful beyond measure. Like Marianne Williamson said, "It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us." You have enough light to brighten the world. What you believe, you can achieve, so don’t stop believing!
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Hydrogen because you wouldn’t want to live without me!
Pepeha
Ko Kahurānaki te maunga
Ko Tākitimu te waka
Ko Poukawa te roto
Ko Kahurānaki, ko Te Hauke ngā marae
Ko Ngāti Kahungunu te iwi
Ko Ngāi Te Whatuiāpiti te hapū
Profile
Puts hand up for anything
When did you join Pūhoro?
2017
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Being able to give back to the Pūhoro programme and help other Pūhoro students
Advice for our rangatahi
ANYTHING you need help with, Pūhoro has got you covered
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Nitrogen, it’s in our DNA to love it
Pepeha
Ko Puketapu te maunga
Ko Ngaruroro te awa
Ko Tākitimu te waka
Ko Ngāti Hinemanu me Ngāi Te Ūpokoiri ngā hapū
Ko Ngāti Kahungunu te iwi
He hononga hoki ōku ki Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Tūwharetoa me Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga
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When did you join Pūhoro?
January 2022
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love that we can support our tauira in seeing the power and beauty in being Māori.
Advice for our rangatahi
Take risks and see mistakes as learning opportunities, your mistakes have the power to turn you into something better than you were before.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Hydrogen – it is the lightest element, but it makes up 90% of the visible universe. Another cool thing about it is that it is a raw fuel for stars.
Pepeha
Ko Nuku Mania te maunga
Ko Ōrakaia te awa
Ko Tākitimu te waka
Ko Ngāi Tahu, ko Ngāti Porou, ko Ngāti Tūwharetoa, ko Ngā Puhi, ko Te Rarawa, ko Ngā Rauru Kītahi, ko Te Arawa, ko Ngāi Te Rangi, ko Ngāti Pukenga ngā iwi
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Netball Savant Extraordinaire
When did you join Pūhoro?
October 2024
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Being able to empower rangatahi to stand with confidence and pride in every space they occupy.
Advice for our rangatahi
Strength is found in embracing discomfort - try new things, change your studies, move to a different town. Allow yourself to grow.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Flerovium – as we are both rare, fascinating, and made our debut in 1999.
Pepeha
Ko Ruapehu te maunga
Ko Mangawhero te awa
Ko Ngāti Rangi, ko Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, ko Ngāti Tūwharetoa ngā iwi
Ko Ngā Mōkai te marae
Profile
When did you join Pūhoro?
April 2022
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
The people – both the rangatahi and kaimahi – and learning from those around me
Advice for our rangatahi
Don’t underestimate the power of doing a little, consistently. Just as a kete is woven one strand at a time, so a successful and virtuous life is woven from the small but frequent good decisions a person makes
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
I’d be a metaphysical simple – in other words, whatever the most fundamental physical building block is (maybe a quark?). I like fundamental things. 😊
Pepeha
Ko Kahurānaki te maunga
Ko Kahurānaki te marae
Ko Poukawa te roto
Ko Tākitimu te waka
Ko Te Whatuiāpiti te hapū
Ko Ngāti Kahungunu te iwi
Profile
The Gatekeeper
When did you join Pūhoro?
September 2019
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
I love how Pūhoro makes STEMM exciting and engaging for our rangatahi.
Advice for our rangatahi
Easy life now, hard life later OR hard life now, easy life later. It's up to you!
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Palladium is rare and tough, and handles what comes its way without making a fuss. I’m steady, adaptable, and just here to get things done without the hype.
Pepeha
Ko Taupiri te maunga
Ko Waikato te awa
Ko Waikato-Tainui te iwi
Ko Ngāti Whāwhākia te hapū
Ko Te Kauri te marae
Profile
The Go-Getter
When did you join Pūhoro?
September 2021
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Having the opportunity to be connected to a kaupapa such as Pūhoro speaks for itself and I am lucky to be amongst dedicated and passionate people who strive to lift and inspire rangatahi Māori within STEMM.
Advice for our rangatahi
Build on your strengths and see challenges as a way for you to learn and grow. DON'T GIVE UP! Kia maumahara ki tēnei – cherish your absolute uniqueness.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Magnesium – it’s crucial to the body's function and I believe that I have a crucial and integral part of ensuring things function well for our rangatahi.
Pepeha
Ko Taupiri, Ko Pirongia, Ko Maungapōhatu ngā maunga
Ko Waikato, ko Rangitaiki ngā awa
Ko Tainui, ko Aotea, ko Mātaatua ngā waka
Ko Wāhi Pā, ko Te Tōtara, ko Ngahina ngā marae
Ko Waikato-Tainui, ko Ngāi Tūhoe ngā iwi
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Kai Queen – I love to cook and bake almost as much as I love to eat and share it!!
When did you join Pūhoro?
February, 2024
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Being able to work in a kaupapa Māori environment. Knowing our mahi combined contributes to the growth and success of our rangatahi. Watching them harness their super-powers, take hold of the reigns and forge their pathway to a fulfilling and successful future.
Advice for our rangatahi
Not so much advice but more of a reminder that you are already a super star; we are just here to help you navigate your way through your learning journey.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
I’d have to be Hydrogen. It can power vehicles, heat our homes and generate electricity, which is pretty awesome. It could also contribute to lowering our carbon emissions, which is pretty relevant to the world’s goal of achieving net zero emissions.
Pepeha
Ngāti Kere, Te Whānau a Te Ehutu, Te Hika o Papauma
Profile
Philosopher and Token “Did you know [insert useless information]” guy
When did you join Pūhoro?
2016
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Watching rangatahi grow their confidence and establish themselves as young capable Māori in science fields
Advice for our rangatahi
“If you had one shot, one opportunity..” Always take advantage of the opportunities presented to you, it could be the only time there ever is ...
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Carbon. It can help to (and likely does) make everything. It is basically chemical lego. This reflects me well, because sometimes I can feel awesome like diamonds and others... I can feel ordinary... like a pencil.
Pepeha
He mokopuna nō ngā moana o Te Tai Tokerau, o Raukawakawa
Profile
I draw things for a living
When did you join Pūhoro?
July 2020
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
It’s an environment breaking down barriers to normalise te ao Māori.
Advice for our rangatahi
Indigenous knowledge will save the world.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Avatar state… yip… yip.
Pepeha
Ko Tararua ngā pae maunga
Ko Ōtaki te awa
Ko Tainui te waka
Ko Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga te iwi
Ko Ngāti Kikopiri, ko Ngāti Wehiwehi ngāhapū
He uri hoki au nō Ngāti Toarangatira, Te Ātiawa, Ngā Rauru, Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi, ā, Kōtimana anō hoki
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Te Reo Māori Advocate
When did you join Pūhoro?
2021
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Ko Tangaroa ara rau, ko Tangaroa kiriūka. He kaupapa tēnei e ahuahu ana i ngā ara pūrau hei whanake i te iwi Māori. He kaupapa titikaha i ngā moana pukepuke hei kōkiritia ngā kōnekeneke mā ngā rangatahi Māori.
Advice for our rangatahi
He mātanga pūtaiao ō tātou tūpuna mai rā āno. Tīkina te hoe, terea te waka ki pae tawhiti.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Mehemea he pūmotu ahau, ko ahau te waro (C) nā te mea he mea whakahirahira te waro i roto i te taiao. Mā te waro ka ora ai ngā tipu, ā, ko te waro te pūtake o te taimana.
Pepeha
Ko Aorangi te maunga
Ko Hautapu, ko Moawhango, ko Rangitīkeingā awa
Ko Ngāti Tamakōpiri, ko Ngāti Whitikaupeka,ko Ngāi Te Ohuake, ko Ngāti Hauiti, ko Ngāti Kahungunu ki Tamatea, ko NgātiTūwharetoa, ko Ngāi Tahu ngā iwi
Ko Opaea, ko Moawhango ngā marae
Nō Taihape ahau
Profile
COMMander and Chief
When did you join Pūhoro?
September 2022
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Seeing young Māori thrive, overcome barriers and achieve things they never thought were possible.
Advice for our rangatahi
You have unlimited potential and can achieve anything you want to achieve.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Iron because its strong, steady and indispensable.
Pepeha
Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi
Profile
The go to for all things financial...
When did you join Pūhoro?
July 2023
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Working in a kaupapa Māori organisation where it focuses on giving our rangatahi the guidance and opportunities to excel in STEMM.
Advice for our rangatahi
Take every opportunity in life, work hard and always be respectful.
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Tungsten (W) – tungsten is rare and remarkable for its robustness, especially the fact that it has the highest melting point, so it’s "cool under pressure". Its chemical symbol is also W (for Whitney).
Pepeha
I tipu au i Rotorua, ki te rohe o Ngā Pūmanawa e Waru o Te Arawa
Ināianei, ka noho mātou ko tōku whānau ki raro i ngā pae maunga o Tararua, o Ruahine
He Tangata Tiriti ahau
Profile
Ally and Salesforce enthusiast
When did you join Pūhoro?
July 2023
What do you love about working for Pūhoro?
Having the chance to give back in a kaupapa Māori organisation that is making a genuine impact is a real privilege for me. I love a challenge and I'm excited to play a role in supporting Pūhoro as it looks to increase its reach.
Advice for our rangatahi
Be curious, try new things – knowing what doesn't float your boat is an important part of discovering your passion. Kia kaha, kia māia, kia manawanui!
If you were an element, what would you be, and why?
Aluminium (Al) – versatile and good at making connections. As an analyst I thrive in the space where people, processes and technology intersect. Being able to see all the connections we make with tauira, whānau and partners is an important part of my mahi.