Co-founder and Manahautū-CEO of Tai Huki Consulting, Whare Isaac-Sharland, has been honoured with the prestigious Te Pou Whirinaki Business Collaboration Award at the recent 2023 MWDI Māori Businesswomen’s Awards in Tāmaki Makaurau.
The award, sponsored by Manatū Wāhine Ministry for Women, recognises Whare’s excellence in creating a collaborative working environment between iwi, pakihi (business), and across sectors to achieve collective impact to grow Māori enterprise.
Founded in 2020, Tai Huki Consulting is a transformative Māori, indigenous, Mātauranga and education group committed to empowerment for ākonga, whānau, hapū, iwi, and the wider community.
“We are driven by providing a level of excellence to and or for our people, so they may be better supported to grow their love of learning. Everything we do is to strengthen their learning journey, and we are privileged to be in the space to provide this,” said Ms Isaac-Sharland.
Reflecting on her own personal journey, Ms Isaac-Sharland expressed deep gratitude for the recognition received, and emphasised the importance of self-determined learning journeys for Māori.
“This award is another way I can validate all the hard work and effort I put into our business, as well as the projects that I am passionate about.
“For so long, many Māori have and continue to be denied a self-determined learning journey. This is one of the fastest ways we can feel empowered – driving our own goals and aspirations, whilst being provided the tools and resources to support our choices.”
When asked about her proudest moments, Ms Isaac-Sharland highlighted the significance of her whānau, and dedication to serving the education ecosystem and wider community.
“My whānau are a source of immense pride. I have been with my husband for 30 years and have three tamariki who continue to make me proud. They are really good humans, and I know they will also be good servants for our people,” she said.
“Providing our services to the education ecosystem and whānau, is an honour and a real privilege.”
Find the full list of winners on the Māori Women’s Development Inc. website.