In New Zealand, the flooding had a devastating effect on the country that they are still working to rebuild. It was also harder to find a flat (apartment) here as the floods displaced a lot of families as their houses, flats, cars, and all belongings were demolished in the floods. I am very fortunate to have whānau [family] here that welcomed me and my son into their home for the first month that we were here.
After I found a flat and got myself and my son's school schedule down it was time to get to work. I'll speak more about the University of Auckland in another journal. My main focus, while I am here, is looking at Te Reo Māori [Māori language], performance, and cultural practices with various iwi across Aotearoa in language nests, language programming in the community, and academic settings. I hope to gain knowledge of successful language immersion programs and methodologies of language regeneration in hopes to help awaken my language back home. My dream is to one day open my own language nest/immersion school on my reservation.
I am excited to share my journey with you as growing up on the reservation I didn't know one person in college, let alone earning a PhD or getting to travel the world doing what they love. I am so grateful for the opportunities I have been awarded, but I also did not just sit back and wish them into existence. It's been a long hard road with sacrifice and dedication. I am always wanting to share my story, not just my success but who I am and where I come from. I am looking forward to hearing and learning from you. Kia Ora. Mu Penakwa Yadooa, which means I’ll talk to you soon!
