The weeks leading up to Electrify Aotearoa have filled me with a strong appetite for inspiration and hope. As the daughter of small business owners—taxi drivers, salesmen, caterers, and dairy operators—business and the risk for something new have been integral to my Fijian Indian identity

I arrived with hopes that Electrify Aotearoa would unlock something about my future path. I aimed to meet exceptional people (including some I fangirl over), gain a sense of direction, and fill up my cup with participants' collective wisdom and vibes..

I recently finished my current role and stood on the edge of my next endeavour. I'm exploring taking some entrepreneurial leaps with Seva CoLab, an organisation aiming to build design services, leaders, and institutions of tomorrow that honour equity, Te Tiriti, and systemically underserved communities. Having been part of the start-up IndigiShare for the last five years, I can confidently say it's been one of the proudest and most beautiful teams, and I've been a part of Kaupapa. Thanks to the Fund, a founder program by the organisers, I even embraced a pantsuit moment to boost my confidence to enter the space at Electrify Aotearoa.

Allyshift emerged as a beacon of hope and connection, providing a much-needed space for dialogue and renewal amidst the ongoing challenges in the realm of equity and inclusion.

Photo Credit: Erica Austin, Peanut Productions Photography

In the realm of public sector employment, job cuts are more than just reductions in workforce; they represent a seismic shift with far-reaching implications. As we navigate these turbulent times, it's crucial to acknowledge the diverse impact of these cuts on individuals, shaped by their unique positions of power and privilege. While the challenges posed by restructuring and institutional changes are daunting, they also present an opportunity for reflection, solidarity, and collective action.

It's time for Tangata Tiriti to grow in our mobilisation and to be action in this kaupapa. The challenge was set in Waitangi this year on the role of Tangata Tiriti in #Toitūtetiriti on our role to lead our own communities in this movement and respond to the calls of support set out by Tangata Whenua.