Manaaki whenua, Manaaki tangata, Haere whakamua
Care for the land, care for the people, go forward
Manawhenua ki Mohua representative Bev Purdie consistently brings the sentiments from this Māori proverb to the education programme, donating her wisdom and time to the rangitahi / young people.
As an iwi representative for the education programme she is involved in the education programme on many fronts, attending Abel Tasman Youth Ambassador retreats and hui, manu (bird) releases, a representative of Manawhenua ki Mohua and providing valuable advice to the education programme leaders.
Bev was born in the Nelson region but spent a lot of her working life in the North Island before moving to Golden Bay in recent years. She has had a long career in education, with 12 years as principal at Tauhara Primary School in Taupo.
She says she thoroughly enjoys her role as iwi representative, watching and helping the rangitahi become strong kaitaki for the Abel Tasman.
“My passion is to see rangatahi grow leadership skills and guard and protect our land for future generations. You see them grow as leaders, it’s amazing and in such a beautiful area. I wish more young people could be part of ATYA,” says Bev.
Project Janszoon director Bruce Vander Lee says Bev gives the programme an important insight into what is important from both an iwi and education perspective. Education co-ordinator Brooke Turner says Bev is a “huge asset”.
“We are so lucky to have Bev involved in the education programme. She gives great advice and personally she has taught me a lot, about working with teachers, local history and Māori culture. No question is too silly and she has been a real mentor to me. Thank you so much for your support Bev,” says Brooke.
Bruce Vander Lee, Bev Purdie and ATYA’s Joe Cunningham
