The threads of people

 

He Muka Tangata is a new offering, our own public Te Puni Kōkiri cadetship for kaimahi Māori working in operational roles across many different organisations and sectors.

 

The story behind the name

Muka is the fibre extracted from harakeke (New Zealand flax). It forms the base of most kākahu (cloaks) and Māori weaving art forms. Flax fibre is one of the strongest textiles, often used to make ropes. It is a powerful symbol of connection as the muka tangata translates to ‘the thread of people’ and beyond as the many threads of whakapapa, carefully interwoven to maximise the strength of the people as a whole.

He Muka Tangata is the name of our cadetship because it perfectly encapsulates the desired outcome; if we strengthen our people to be better leaders at work, they grow in their capacity to help implement business strategy and realise the organisational vision. They also take home the learning and grow stronger in their roles within their whānau, hapū, iwi and communities.

We used the double helix DNA symbolism in two colours to represent the threads of people, both literally and metaphorically. It also symbolises the joining of two kaupapa – the New Zealand Level 3 Certificate in Business, Team Leadership, which empowers individuals to lead with confidence and the Te Puni Kōkiri Cadetship programme which aims to develop, mentor and train Māori staff at all career stages into higher-skilled roles.

We bring together the best of both worlds to design and deliver this qualification from a Te Ao Māori perspective that will impact your kaimahi Māori and every part of your organisation, through a combination of learning, mentoring, and on-the-job skill development.

 

Who is the course for?

This course is perfect for those stepping into a new role in managing people or as a brush-up for those who have been managing for some time but are without any formal training input.

 

How it works

Our courses usually have 12 spaces available. The first one was based in Auckland but we hope to roll them out nationally. Learners join a multi-entity cohort. Sessions are held over 4 x 2-day intensive wānanga. It all starts with a pōwhiri, at the end of a course we celebrate with a graduation and then follow-up with a reflection 2 months after the course ends.

 

Find out more

• To enrol your Māori staff or for more information, contact our team on 09 622 3979.
• Read more about He Muka tangata our Māori Leadership course.