Awhina Green - University of Canterbury.

Āwhina Green (Ngāti Porou)

Nomination letter for VP Māori – National Women’s Committee for 2026-2027 term

I wish to nominate myself for the Māori National Women’s Committee of the tertiary union. I come to this space as a committed unionist, an experienced educator, and someone grounded in kaupapa Māori values of collective strength, equity, and advocacy.

My union journey began in the primary sector, where I served as Secretary for the Rakahuri branch of NZEI Te Riu Roa. In this role, I developed strong organisational skills, supported member engagement, and helped ensure that our collective voice remained active and visible at the local level. I worked alongside passionate educators who believed in the power of solidarity, and this experience shaped my understanding of what it means to stand together for fair conditions, quality education, and the wellbeing of our communities.

A defining moment in my union involvement was participating in the 2018 teacher strike action. This period reinforced my commitment to collective action and highlighted the importance of courage, unity, and persistence when advocating for meaningful change. It also strengthened my belief that our voices—when organised and grounded in shared purpose—can influence national conversations and outcomes.

I identify as a strong unionist who values kotahitanga and mana wāhine. I am particularly passionate about ensuring that Māori women’s voices are present, heard, and influential in decision-making spaces. I understand that our experiences in education and employment are shaped by broader systemic inequities, and I am motivated to contribute to work that uplifts our people and creates pathways for future generations.

While I am new to the tertiary sector, I see this as an opportunity rather than a limitation. I bring with me a willingness to learn, to listen, and to engage meaningfully with the issues facing Māori women in this space. I am committed to building my understanding of the tertiary landscape and contributing in a way that is informed, respectful, and aligned with the aspirations of the committee.

I believe my background in union leadership at the branch level, my lived experience as an educator, and my dedication to collective advocacy position me well to contribute to the Māori National Women’s Committee. I am not afraid to step forward, ask questions, and do the work required to support our members.

Ultimately, I seek to be part of this committee to continue strengthening the voice of Māori women within our union, to support equitable outcomes, and to uphold the values that bind us together. I am ready to learn, to contribute, and to stand alongside others in this important kaupapa.

Ngā manaakitanga nā,

Āwhina Green