Marama Royal (Ngāti Whatua) has been appointed to the boards of MIT and Unitec, as the institutes work to build more effective Te Tiriti-based relationships in the region.
“We are honoured that such an esteemed and experienced iwi leader has accepted this appointment,” says Chair, Te Pūkenga Council Murray Strong.
“As Chair of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust, Marama brings to both boards considerable governance experience as well as the clear voice of Mana Whenua in decision making on how the delivery of vocational education can better engage and support the aspirations and economic development of tauira, iwi, hapū and Māori.”
The Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust Board is responsible for administration, management, protection and governance of the Trust’s assets to ensure the cultural, commercial and social development of around five thousand iwi members nationally.
Marama Royal has also provided her governance expertise to boards in education, horticulture, international aid, charitable and community sectors.
During her career, she has held management roles at Ministry of Justice and with Victim Support at both regional and national levels.
As Victim Support’s General Manager – Māori, Pacific, Ethnic and Diverse Communities; Marama was responsible for the development of Te Rautaki Māori (Māori Strategy) – ‘Te Huarakau o Manaaki Tangata.’
“I am excited to be engaged in the shaping of the delivery of vocational education across Tāmaki Makaurau and working to build more effective relationships. Education is one of the highest priorities for Māori. It is essential that our institutions delivery equity for Māori and meet the long term needs of learners, their whānau and communities,” she says.
Ensuring governance, management and operations of Te Pūkenga give effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi is enshrined in the organisation’s charter, as well as the core principles of inclusivity and equity.
“This appointment is a key one for the providers,” says MIT-Unitec Chair Peter Winder. “Marama brings a wealth of leadership knowledge and insights to the boards, as we move to better realise the huge potential of Māori in Tāmaki.”
Marama Royal will be welcomed before attending her first meetings as a member of the boards on Thursday 27 May.