Many people assume the Certificate in Māori Performing Arts at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa is solely about kapa haka.
However, over the past 16 years, under the guidance of kaiako Juliet Grant, the programme has grown into something much broader and more enriching.
“The programme has evolved over the years and adapted to meet market needs. A lot of people wanted to develop their public speaking skills. We’ve grown with the times, now teaching contemporary drama, movement, screen acting, and public speaking,” says Juliet.
Throughout her teaching career Juliet has seen countless tauira grow in confidence, with many going on to build successful careers or side ventures in acting, music, and other creative and performing arts.
Niquita Samuel is one of those tauira. While studying, she was already putting her learning into practice, using the skills gained from the programme to enhance her performance and build a presence in the arts industry.
“I'm studying performing arts to bring all my passions together – storytelling, creativity, and culture. It's how I express myself and connect with others. Through performing arts, we share our journeys and transform struggle into strength. Te Wānanga o Aotearoa is the perfect place to grow, because they support us not just as tauira, but as people. I feel like I'm at home," says Niquita.
Niquita, who is an emerging fashion designer and founder of Niq Atelier, drew on the confidence and public speaking skills she gained through the programme to present her solo show, Revelations, at this year's Te Wiki Āhua o Aotearoa FW.
“I love to create shows that project and celebrate our culture, identity, and our beauty, and studying performing arts helped me do that. Ko wai au? Who am I? That’s the best thing I learnt from my studies. I was reminded of the queen I am and the confidence that I have.”
Niquita has studied a range of programmes at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, each chosen to support her aspiration for higher education and to create a secure future for her whānau.
Next year, she plans to study a Diploma in Small Business and Project Management to help grow her fashion brand and strengthen her entrepreneurial skills.
“Te Wānanga o Aotearoa has inspired me to keep learning and to strive for excellence. It’s a safe place for people to be themselves and find support and connection.”
Find out more about our Toi Māori (Arts) as well as Leadership & Management programmes.
