Saffron Stanley (Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Maniapoto) | McCall MacBain Foundation Kupe Leadership Scholar

Bachelor of Science (Honours) Psychology

The intersections between knowledge and power, particularly in relation to Māori wellbeing and health realities, demand attention. Ongoing power imbalances continue to leave Māori markedly underserved and underrepresented in the health and social sectors. This issue requires leadership with nuanced understandings of both Te Ao Māori and Te Ao Pākehā, alongside an ability to navigate both worlds to advance indigenous-led solutions. 

Given this, I seek to uplift the aspirations of Māori through indigenous health research and praxis. By harnessing the power of research and education, we can transform our systems, minds, hearts, and realities. Grounded by culture, guided by community and driven by transformative visions, I aspire to be a leader who is compassionate, resourceful, and innovative. In the spirit of Kupe, seeking new horizons, I aim to contribute towards the manifestation of mana Māori motuhake across all sectors - ultimately working toward a flourishing and equitable Aotearoa for all.

Mō ngā reanga e heke mai ana te take.

Sponsor: McCall MacBain Foundation

Mentors:

Dr Mataroria Lyndon MBChB, MPH, PhD (Ngāti Hine, Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Wai, Waikato) Mataroria is a Senior Lecturer in Medical Education at the University of Auckland and co-founder and clinical director for primary healthcare provider Tend Health. He was previously Equity Lead at Mahitahi Hauora PHO, medical lead for Māori Health at Counties Manukau DHB and was on the Board of the Māori Health Authority. Mataroria was a Fulbright Scholar at Harvard University.

Mayor Tania Tapsell (Te Arawa) Mayor Tapsell made history as the first Māori woman elected as Mayor of Rotorua. Leading a Council responsible for over $1.5 billion in community assets, she prioritizes delivering outcomes for the community, housing, environment, and infrastructure.

With 11 years of local government experience, beginning at the age of 21, Mayor Tapsell has a proven track record. She served as Chairperson of the Council's Operations & Monitoring Committee and has also worked in tourism and top finance firms like BNZ Business Partners and Deloitte. Her qualifications include a Bachelor of Management Studies from the University of Waikato, Diplomas in Business and Marketing, and a Resource Management Commissioner certification.

A strong advocate for communities and ensuring a strong local voice, Mayor Tapsell previously served as Deputy Chairperson of the NZ Community Board Executive Committee, representing 110 boards nationwide.