Changemakers in Māori and Pacific Economies: Embedding Cultural Values and Business Sustainability

AUT warmly invites you to this year’s ‘A kōrero/talanoa with our peers’ event, bringing together inspirational industry leaders who are redefining Māori and Pacific stewardship in business and innovation.

Our three panellists will look at how Māori and Pacific knowledge can spark new ventures and start-ups. Exploring values like manaakitanga, kaitiakitanga and whanaungatanga and how we bring these into boardrooms, investment choices and create positive intergenerational impact. They’ll share practical stories of using technology, AI and hands-on mentorship to support our rangatahi and Pacific entrepreneurs.

This event is proudly facilitated by Professor Helena Cooper Thomas of AUT Business School, an expert in organisational behaviour and psychology.

Reserve your spot to learn from these distinguished leaders who are leading a more future-focused Māori and Pacific vision.

Panellists Include:

Mike Jenkins – Founder & Director of Native Data, AUT Alumni

Shae Parsons Wanoa – Associate Consultant at Qrious, AUT Alumni

Tori McNoe – Head of Investment Programmes, Uniservices

Facilitators:

Professor Helena Cooper Thomas from the Department of Management, Technology and Organisation at AUT Business School

WHEN:

Wednesday, 24 September 2025
5.15pm-5.55pm – kai and networking

6pm-7.30pm – panel conversation with Q&A

WHERE:

Sir Paul Reeves Building – WG201, 2 Governor Fitzroy Place, Auckland CBD
AUT City Campus

DRESS CODE:

Cultural attire is encouraged