Calem Stewart-Leaton

Introduction

Kia ora te whaanau!

Ko Calem Tiki Stewart-Leatau tooku ingoa. He uri ahau noo Ngaati Kura, Ngaati Ruamahue, Ngaati Kuta, Patu Keha, Ngaati Mahuta me Avatele. I whakapapa to Ngaa Puhi, Ngaa Puhi ki Whangaroa, the Waikato, and the beautiful island of Niue. However, I was born and raised in South Auckland, Manurewa. I am a student at Waipapa Taumata Rau, studying a Law and Art conjoint, majoring in Maaori Studies and Psychology, with a strong focus on Maaori and Indigenous rights, psychologies, and ways of being.

I am excited to explore the rich history of India and to learn about their traditions, languages, and ways of life. Finding similarities and differences between maatauranga Maaori in Aotearoa and ways of knowing in India is an aspect I am passionate about and look forward to experiencing! Most importantly, I cannot wait to connect with the people! To establish positive relationships and solidarity with the communities that we meet and engage with.

I am extremely thankful for this chance and intend on taking the learnings, reflections, and lessons I find from this internship back home to my communities. I want to be able to uplift other Maaori and Pasifika rangatahi from South Auckland, and across the motu into these opportunities.

To represent Waipapa Taumata Rau, my iwi, hapuu, village, and my South Auckland community is truly a privilege I will not take for granted.

Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini. Maaori ki te ao! Mauri ora!