Congratulations to Talia Ellison-Collins who graduated on 15 May, with a BA majoring in Indigenous Development. Talia is also currently studying towards a Masters in Peace and Conflict Studies.
The attached pre-graduation photo is of all the Ngāi Tahu tauira who graduated from Te Whare Wānanga o Ōtakou/University of Otago in May 2015. Congratulations to you all.
Kōrero from Talia
The pre-grad was on 14 May and on both occasions I was supported by Uncle Edward, Aunty Paulette, Uncle Komene and the boys, Aunty Donna, Matt, Tuari as well as our wider whānau as part of Te Rūnaka o Ōtākou. We sang Te Whare o Te Ruahikihiki and Taukaea Aroha at pre-grad and then Aunty Paulette, Uncle Komene, my little brothers aka Taikawa and the Boys, Ra, Mum and my other cousins sang.
I am so grateful for all the support that I received from our hapū who showed up in force – it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life.
From left, Te Atarau Cassidy, Talia and her sister Ranui Ellison-Collins.
Our Ngāi Tahu students on their special graduation day.