Māori graduates recently gathered at Te Papa o Rotu Marae at Whatawhata, near Hamilton for a Celebration of Ākonga Māori Success, a special event recognising the achievements of 36 Careerforce Māori learners who proudly graduated with NZQA recognised qualifications.
Hosted by Careerforce, a national work-based learning provider for the health and wellbeing sectors, the evening was to celebrate graduates from across the Northern region, who had completed programmes ranging from Level 2 certificates through to Level 5 diplomas. Some had travelled from as far away as Kaikohe, Whangārei, Thames and Taupo.
Māori health graduates celebrate confidence, self-belief, and success at Careerforce event
The event celebrated not only the graduates’ hard work and dedication but also the support of their whānau, employers, and colleagues. Careerforce Executive Director Rod Bentham commended the graduates for their significant contributions to the health and wellbeing of vulnerable people and communities.
“It was a privilege to share in their success and witness the immense pride of their whānau. We heard about the motivations that helped them persevere and the challenges they overcame in balancing work, whānau, and study.”
He also acknowledged the critical role of employers and workplace assessors in supporting work-based learning. “Employers invest significant effort into guiding learners, and workplace assessors are invaluable. Without them, achieving these qualifications would be nearly impossible.”
Careerforce’s Rōpū Taupuhipuhi Āmio team offers a kaupapa Māori approach, providing face-to-face support through wānanga mahi and noho marae. This team assists learners in navigating Te Ao Māori unit standards while embedding tikanga and mātauranga into learning experiences.
Careerforce Kaihautū Taupuhipuhi Āmio – Manager, Hineoma Paekau-Rush, leads the team dedicated to the success of Māori learners. “We are fortunate to have Māori staff wholly committed to supporting ākonga Māori, not just in their studies but in ensuring that tikanga and mātauranga enrich their learning journeys,” says Hineoma.
“Whether completing a Level 2 qualification or a higher-level one, every graduate has a story – overcoming challenges, showing commitment, and rightfully taking pride in earning their NZQA qualification. Many graduates have now become tuakana, (offering guidance and encouragement) to teina who are still on their journey.”
Among them was Juanita – Leisha Watene, Pou Manaaki for Mental Health & Addictions services at Te Ha Oranga, who had travelled from Dargaville, and who completed her Health and Wellbeing Apprenticeship in Peer Support Level 4, despite taking time off for surgery. Her focus and dedication ensured she met the milestone of graduating on this significant night.
Another proud graduate was Susan Gamble, who received her Level 4 Apprenticeship in Disability Support. After transitioning from a 30-year career as a meat packer, Susan discovered her passion for care work. Starting with a Level 2 Health and Wellbeing qualification, she advanced to Level 3 and Level 4 and is now enrolled in a Level 5 Diploma with Careerforce.
For more information about Careerforce programmes and support for Māori learners, visit www.careerforce.org.nz.