Ashton Ledger – Toi Ohomai.

Tēnā koutou katoa.

My name is Ashton Ledger and I seek your support to be one of two Te Pūkenga academic staff representatives on the Industrial and Professional Committee (IPC) of the Tertiary Education Union (TEU).

With almost a decade of experience in the tertiary education sector, working in various academic and non-academic roles within university and polytechnic settings, I stand to advance the interests of academic staff within Te Pūkenga.

In my current role as a Learning Facilitator at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology / Te Pūkenga, and my ongoing services as the under 35 (U35) representative for the Rotorua branch of the TEU representing our Rotorua, Taupō, Tokoroa, Waipa, and Whakatāne campuses, I have engaged with the diverse needs and concerns of kaiako and kaimahi. These interactions have empowered me with the capabilities, characteristics, and community focus suitable for serving as a representative on the IPC.

A key priority of mine for the 2024-2025 term is to work alongside other representatives from the sector and ensure there is equal and fair representation when meeting to advise council and conference. This balance will ensure that all parties can address their individual matters as well as stand in solidarity to address shared matters. In times of change and uncertainty, we must remember that we are stronger together than we are alone.

At the moment, Te Pūkenga feels like four single-hulled waka on separate voyages to the same destination without crossbeams at the ready to assemble into the multi-hulled waka they’re meant to be. In the wake of organisational change, we need strength, stability, and security to ride the waves ahead of us. These qualities mightn’t be the easiest to embrace at times like this, but I believe we can begin to embody them with the support of each other and the TEU.

Academic staff representatives on the IPC have the opportunity to address and raise awareness of matters that impact the lives of kaiako, kaimahi, and ākonga across the motu. I am committed to making sure Te Pūkenga academic staff voices are spoken for, listened to, and heard by the TEU. Our dedication to making positive differences and enriching our communities should not go unrecognised.

Manawa nui. Manawa roa. Manawa ora.

Ngā mihi nui,
Ashton.