Latesha Latu | Ralph and Eve Seelye Trust

Master of Education

In 2024, things started slowly – a series of changes that quietly seeped into our classrooms. 2025 dawned, and the changes did not stop – louder, more obvious. My first two years in the teaching profession were turbulent, and the Māori and Pasifika communities I served felt the pressing impacts.

Witnessing these consistent, targeted changes reaffirmed my concern. Education too often asks its underserved learners to survive instability rather than thrive in protection from it. This prompts my research in giving voice to the formation of mixed-heritage Pasifika identity in the Aotearoa diaspora, complementing established understandings of decolonisation in education.

Education needs leaders who prioritise learners. During the cyclical shifts of distant decision-makers, our ākonga need staunch advocates who implement stability, empower culture and identity, and work collectively to guarantee success for all. I aspire to contribute through leadership that is accountable to my communities by working with them, not for them.

Sponsor: Ralph and Eve Seelye Trust

Mentor: Bert Iosia

A respected Pacific business and leadership advisor with extensive experience across governance, strategy, and community leadership. Bert works closely with leaders and organisations to support culturally grounded and future‑focused leadership. He is deeply committed to developing confident Pacific leaders who lead with values and service.