From March 6th to 8th, 2024, Paratehoata (Tūnohopū) marae, Rotorua hosted the 15th Hui Fono. The gathering proved to be a transformative space for Māori and Pacific who work in adult and community education in Aotearoa.

This unique, annual event is a landmark of professional learning, offering a space for attendees to immerse themselves in a blend of cultural wisdom and educational insights.

The theme for Hui Fono 2024, “He Waka Eke Noa: Together Towards Tomorrow,” captured a vision of unity, community, and social cohesion. It was a call to action, urging participants to bridge gaps, foster understanding, and work collectively for a future where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated and leveraged for the greater good.

The whakataukī “He Waka Eke Noa” served as the guiding star for the event, symbolising a collective journey where everyone plays a part, and knowledge is shared and transported like a waka that belongs to the whole community.

This theme was further enriched by the values of whakawhanaungatanga, manaakitanga, and rangatiratanga, which were pivotal in exploring how cultural diversity and creativity can be harnessed for success within mainstream education.

The Hui Fono 2024 kicked off with a pōwhiri, adhering to the local kawa and offering attendees an authentic cultural experience. The event promised a rich tapestry of activities, from keynote speeches by esteemed speakers to interactive workshops and whakawhitiwhiti kōrero/talanoa sessions designed for deep reflection and dialogue.

The essence of Hui Fono was its celebration of ancestral intelligence, with participants valuing the deep connections made possible through the event. The integration of indigenous and Pacific practices, the sharing of stories and food, and the atmosphere of unity and inclusivity were highlighted as the event’s most valuable aspects.

Among the highlights were the workshops focused on traditional food and its connection to culture and identity, such as “Mainese: Nourishing Roots, Cultivating Unity” and “Maara Kai: Exploring Maaori Traditions in Growing Kai.” These sessions underscored the significance of food as a vessel for cultural preservation and community bonding.

“I will look at the “horizon” and keep looking for the next “horizon” in terms of trends and how our spaces are moving.”

The Hui Fono also placed a strong emphasis on oratory and storytelling, with workshops like “Voices of Tradition: Mastering Oratory in Māori and Pacific Cultures” aimed at honing the art of speechmaking, a vital skill in  leadership and ceremonial contexts.

The workshop “Ākonga Achievement: Unlocking the Achievement of Māori Ākonga” presented a real-life example of what authentic cultural capability and responsive education looked like at all levels – from leadership to operations. “ESTEMPLE Talanoa: Re-imagining our tides, waves and currents in the Sea of Islands” encouraged participants to acknowledge their history and current situation while learning to “forecast” rather than “react”.

In addition to the rich cultural and educational offerings, the Hui Fono 2024 was an opportunity for networking and collaboration. It was a platform where educators, and community leaders came together to share knowledge, inspire each other, and collectively work towards a future that honours the diverse tapestry of cultures in Aotearoa.

During Hui Fono, attendees emphasised authenticity in representing the true needs and identities of their communities.

They shared the importance of embedding real community narratives in educational spaces and the critical role of fostering community bonds. The focus was on empowering individuals to maintain cultural connections and pride, with many expressing a renewed commitment to nurturing their heritage and peer support.

Participants recognised the vital role of storytelling in keeping cultural heritage alive and discussed the significance of leaders taking time to rejuvenate. They also spoke about the power of personal stories in advocating for cultural practices and the intrinsic value of every individual. It was evident that attendees aimed to return to their communities with strategies to see positive changes unfold.

“I feel now I have more tools in my kete to carry out my work.”

Networking at Hui Fono was praised for its organic and authentic nature, providing an environment where people could connect and form genuine relationships. The event was a hub for sharing resources, learning about local initiatives, and forming connections outside of one’s organisation.

Participants spoke fondly of the experiences on the marae, engaging with local knowledge, and the intergenerational bonds that were strengthened. The event stood as a testament to the beauty of shared cultural narratives and the affirmation of identities within a welcoming community space.

The keynote from Fred Vercoe linked participants to Te Arawa whakapapa and reinforced the strength in learners (and educators) understanding their tūrangawaewae. This knowledge provides a strong foundation and helps in re-establishing sense of self. Hana Tapiata built on this kōrero, speaking of self-awareness, empowerment and mana. She discussed reshaping conversations and stories, emphasising that everything we require lies within us. Our identity is tied to our connections — to our inner selves, our history, our present, and our surroundings. We are created with intention; we just have to discover it.

Reflecting on the workshops, attendees noted several significant impacts. Workshops that explored Māori whakapapa, engaged participants in practical cooking experiences, and shared local histories resonated deeply. Emotional sessions such as Moana Vā stood out for their rawness, inclusiveness and cultural responsiveness, while storytelling sessions that intertwined science with indigenous knowledge were praised for their innovative approach.

“I will lead out some important conversations in my work and community settings about systemic change and embracing people as they are.”

Hui Fono 2024 was more than an event; it was a catalyst for reinforcing cultural pride, community support, and educational innovation. With insights gained and relationships formed, participants are now equipped to enact positive change within their communities, inspired by the unity and wisdom shared. As they look forward to future gatherings, the spirit of “He Waka Eke Noa” will continue to guide them, fostering a collaborative journey towards a more inclusive and enriched tomorrow.