Show Notes
Rawiri Wright took a leap of faith 30 years ago that led him, his wife, and their whānau into the world of kura kaupapa Māori, devoting themselves to the regeneration of everything Māori.
As a man who has been at the centre of the Kura Kaupapa movement, he believes that Kura Kaupapa Māori Aho Matua is the way forward for Māori to revitalise themselves. Rawiri learned te reo Māori as young adults so that he could provide a Kura Kaupapa Māori Aho Matua education for his children.
Over the decades, Rawiri has seen the results of the battles that he and those who fought for Kura Kaupapa and is immensely satisfied and humbled to see former students who are now contributing and giving back to the world. We got a chance to sit and talk with him about why he decided to raise his children immersed in te ao Māori and why he remains committed to Kura Kaupapa after 30 years.
This is Indigenous 100. Rawiri Wright – Episode 40
More from Indigenous 100 Podcast
With a deep love for people and a genuine desire to give his absolute all to his mahi, Dr. Reuben Collier has always approached his work with the right intentions and a true commitment to understanding. It is this authenticity that has naturally drawn elders to open up to him, they believed in him—no matter who, where, or what the kaupapa may be.
Reflecting on his youth, Wiremu Doherty shares a story of simplicity and deep connection to the world around him, offering a profound glimpse into the resourcefulness that shaped his journey. As a hunter-gatherer even from his preschool years, these formative experiences laid the foundation for the remarkable insights he now weaves into the influential roles he holds today.
A life-altering accident could have ended Gordon Toi’s path as an artist, but instead, it deepened his passion for his art and turned his own pain into a vessel to help others navigate their own—particularly through the sacred and profound process of giving and receiving tā moko.
Colonialism’s impact runs deep, shaping how indigenous peoples are perceived both at home and abroad. Ironically, outside one’s home country, there is often recognition, respect, and admiration for our uniqueness and resilience.
AI has become an increasingly prominent part of our daily lives, rapidly advancing in knowledge and significance. As it continues to evolve, Dan reflects on the importance of nurturing our relationship with this global tool, exploring how we can harness it for positive outcomes while addressing common misconceptions.