Graduating with a Bachelor of Health Sciences at the Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) Autumn Graduation Celebration, she hopes to continue making a difference in the sector.
“I have always admired those in the healthcare field but seeing my koro hesitate to seek help made me think, ‘if I worked in healthcare, maybe I could do something to change that’,” she says. “It was for him, it was for me, for our whānau, and for our community.”
Determined to be part of that change, Tawera enrolled in UC’s Bachelor of Health Sciences.
Juggling study, motherhood, and part-time work, it took longer to complete her degree—having a pēpi (baby) in her first year and deciding to switch to part-time study to balance it all. “It was a long journey—full-time māmā (mother), part-time study, part-time work, but I got there in the end.”
During her studies, she took on a part-time role in an equity leadership team at Pegasus Health as a Māori and Equity Development Coordinator, encouraged by a family friend in healthcare who saw the potential for her to gain hands-on experience.
Today, she continues to work in this role, ensuring that healthcare is accessible, culturally safe, and equitable for priority communities.
Her studies in Māori and Indigenous health have provided her the fundamental tools she needs for a career in health.
"Studying at UC shaped not just my academic understanding, but also my sense of purpose,” Tawera says. “I learned how important each of my lenses are. My Māori lens, my māmā lens, my rangatahi perspective all influence how I approach my role and how I’ll continue to work in health.”
“It is so much more than treating illness. It’s about connecting with whānau, understanding them, their culture, and their experiences. Listening to their needs, uplifting their ideas and responding in a way that respects them. This is important for working towards equitable health. My dream is to help people feel comfortable, respected, and supported when accessing the healthcare they deserve, just like how my koro would have wanted.”
Her time at UC was supported by UC Māori, her lecturers, and her associate dean academic, who encouraged her throughout her studies. Tawera says their support was invaluable when her koro (grandfather) passed away with just two assignments left before her graduation.
“I can’t thank them enough for believing in me. It was such a tough time, but their encouragement helped me push through.”
Reflecting on her time at UC, she is most proud of her personal growth. Once a student who sat at the back of the class, too shy to ask questions, Tawera found the confidence to speak up, seek support, and engage with her lecturers.
“If I could go back, I would tell myself to ask for help sooner. There are so many people at UC that want to see you thrive, so do not be afraid to ask for help. My advice to anyone studying is to embrace the journey. You will be challenged, but your voice, your ideas and your experiences matter. If I can do it, you can too.”
Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 - Quality Education.
