When SkyCity planned to bring Māori and Pacific Island staff together for early leadership development, SkyCity Group DEI Lead Karina Nathan wanted a solution that celebrated and acknowledged culture at the forefront. Project Ikuna was the perfect fit, and the group completed two micro-credentials for their leadership development. This Tātaki Auckland Unlimited project has raised aspirations and leadership confidence across the Auckland team’s Pasfika and Māori workforce.
I really enjoyed hearing about everyone’s Pasifika Leaders. It was nice to put names to faces of the people I have seen around work. Definitely had to step out of my comfort zone and put myself out there. Overall, a great experience: I hope other people are able to go through this training.
Fostering collective success
SkyCity has a deep commitment to advancing our Māori and Pasifika talent, says Karina. “I’m proud to be part of our continued evolution as we explore more ways to bring elements of our whole self into each and every development opportunity.”
For her, the best part of Project Ikuna has been hearing positive testimonies from the work. “From the managers who nominate outstanding team members, to long serving kaimahi who are recognised as Rangatira amongst the group, to young advocates who are identified to champion the future; there are few leadership courses which promote collective success ahead of individual achievements and I think this course does just that,” says Karina.
Throughout the course participants engaged in hands-on learning, group work, and deep discussions. The programme focused on holistic wellbeing using the Pasifika Fonofale model, which helped learners understand the importance of values and qualities in both their personal and work lives.
I came in not wanting to do this but in the end I have actually appreciated this session. It’s made me think about who I look up to when I’ve never really had to think about it before and has made me think about what I would like my life to lead after.
The power of group connection
Upskills Leadership Facilitator Julz Tagaloa says the strong sense of group was a standout of the course. “Group work created a safe, inclusive space where everyone felt comfortable sharing and learning together,” she says. “We explored servant leadership, a sense of belonging, and set personal development goals, empowering participants to become confident leaders.”
Julz believes the laughter, openness and growth shared by everyone made the experience extra special. “Even those who started off reserved grew into confident individuals by the end. During the graduation learners proudly presented their vision boards filled with inspiring quotes, personal affirmations, and their leadership goals for the future.”
I felt very welcomed. I’ve had help with being a leader before, but I like this approach. Building confidence is what I see in this course and I’m all for it.
Strengthening bonds and inspiring change
The whole learning experience has impacted not only participants, but managers too, Karina explains: “For programmes like Project Ikuna to be successful at SkyCity, the key changes I need to see are less focused on the participant (who I know gains so much value) but the managers; one of the most exciting aspects is receiving an email moments after graduation from several of the participants managers highlighting what a great experience this has been for their team and nominating several other team members should there be future cohorts. That’s real change for me!”
Participants commented on the sense of whanaungatanga they now have and the bond of the group moving forward. All came from different parts of SkyCity Auckland’s operations: cleaning, security and the gaming floor and the course gave them the chance to connect and build relationships with one another.
