- Thursday, 10 October 2024
In a significant move towards strengthening relationships with Māori communities in our rohe (area) and our commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Community Trust South (CTS) has appointed Greg Houkamau as its first Pouārahi Māori - a newly created position which marks a step forward in the Trust's journey to embed Kaupapa Māori into its core operations and cultural framework.
Earlier this year CTS released a new Strategic Aspiration which outlines a clear vision - to weave the principles of Te Ao Māori into the fabric of our mahi (work). This vision is not just about compliance but about genuine connection and respect and Greg’s role as Pouārahi Māori will be instrumental in guiding the Trust’s efforts.
Greg is well known in Murihiku and brings a wealth of Te Ao Māori knowledge to the team. His initial connections within the Māori community are strong having previously been involved in Kapa Haka, Kā taoka i tuku iho Charitable Trust (Māori Sports Trust) as the Board Chairperson, Active Southland as Rangatahi Active Recreation Advisor and as a Te Reo Māori teacher at Southland Boys High School. Supporting our youth and their aspirations is Greg’s passion which will carry through his work here at the Trust using Mana Taiohi - a framework used to guide the mahi and enhance the mana of our youth.
“Alignment with Māori values and aspirations, and support for making decisions through the lens of Kaupapa Māori principles is important for the journey of the Trust and that’s what I am here to help with”, explains Greg.
As Greg steps into this pivotal role, his focus will include raising the cultural capability and confidence of CTS Kaimahi (staff). This involves education and engagement, tailored to foster deeper understanding of Te Ao Māori me tōna tirohanga (the Māori world and perspective). By creating a safe space for dialogue and learning, Greg hopes to promote an environment where cultural understanding grows.
“Greg’s role is an acknowledgement that we are committed to this journey and as we build our understanding together, we will strengthen our way of working within the Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles”, says Community Trust South CEO Jackie Flutey.
Embedding these principals paves the way for a more inclusive and equitable future for our rohe and a deeper connection to the communities we serve.
To read Greg’s bio please click here.