Learn more about our Native Nations Exchange Youth

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 A 21-year-old eco-warrior, striving for the betterment of her hometown and community through environmental management. Marei overcame a troubled youth with her first taste of conservation work across Stewart Island, sparking her interest in the environment. Her interests burned brighter once she joined restoration work with Te Rūnanga o Moeraki, evolving her interests into a passion. Through her journey of reconnecting with the whenua, she had now ignited a hunger inside her to utilise her passion for the prosperity of the next generation in Te Urewera. She aspires to up-skill in leadership and dreams of the ability to teach in future youth projects that can leave behind an inspiring, taiao-driven mark, for the next generation of eco-leaders to come. 

A 16-year-old protector and future leader, embodies resilience and determination. Growing up in Reporoa as one of five siblings, she became a provider early on, hunting to feed her whānau and offering koha to her marae. Despite losing four hunting dogs to 1080, she continues to persevere, training a new pup with the same dedication. Currently pursuing a career in construction, Hennessey dreams of building homes for her family. Inspired by her heritage, she is committed to empowering rangatahi, showing them that opportunities beyond their community are within reach, ready to be embraced. 

A 17-year-old with a unique blend of humor, curiosity, and ambition, is set to become a future advocate for the taiao. Growing up in Tauranga with her Nan, Ngawaka is rooted in her community but eager to explore the world. Passionate about environmental conservation, she follows in the footsteps of her Aunty while also nurturing a love for history and culture. With dreams of studying Classical Studies at Otago University, she aims to weave Te Ao Māori into her academic journey. Ngawaka’s infectious energy and leadership skills signal a bright future as a changemaker for her people and the environment. 

A 16-year-old aspiring leader and future cultural ambassador, carries the weight of her whānau and community with pride. As the eldest of eight siblings, her natural leadership shines through in her strong sense of responsibility and compassion. Deeply connected to her roots, Azahria dreams of sharing Te Ao Māori with the world, using her gift for public speaking and passion for cultural exchange. Inspired by her father, a single dad and carer, Azahria’s determination and intelligence are undeniable. With her vision and leadership, she has the potential to uplift her whānau and community. 

A 16-year-old rangatahi leader and cultural ambassador, thrives on sharing her heritage and connecting with others. Raised in Te Ao Māori, she is passionate about performing, public speaking, and teaching her culture. Whether playing guitar or guiding cruise ship passengers at Kiwi Fruit Country Tours, her confidence shines. With a strong environmental conscience and deep connection to Papatuanuku, she feels a responsibility to guide her generation back to their cultural roots. Te Aokapurangi’s potential to represent her culture abroad and bring back mātauranga to inspire her community makes her a future leader to watch. 

A 16-year-old nurturing leader and aspiring builder, is deeply connected to his culture and whānau. Growing up in Maketu and later moving to Tāneatua, he now travels to Whakatāne for school, where he excels at volleyball and is known as a calm, reliable presence among his friends. His commitment to uplifting others shines through in his volunteer work at the local Day Care Centre. With a dream of building homes for those in need, Markeilis is dedicated to inspiring his whānau and becoming a role model for future generations, embodying a quiet determination to create meaningful change in his community. 

A 20-year-old global thinker and rangatahi advocate, is deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of his whakapapa from Tauranga Moana, Maungapōhatu, and Reporoa. As the eldest of three brothers and the first Māori head boy at his school in over two decades, Waru has always embodied leadership, serving as a role model for his siblings and the rangatahi he mentors as a teacher aide. He works with neurodivergent students, providing empathy and support while remaining true to their identities. A passionate advocate for mental health and human rights, Waru dreams of transforming the education system to better nurture rangatahi. His inspiring journey reflects his commitment to empowering the next generation and creating a safer, more inclusive future. 

A 23-year-old kapa haka tutor and cultural healer, is deeply committed to sharing the richness of Māori culture with tamariki at a primary school. Grounded in the teachings of his tūpuna, Cypress aims to be a role model for his five siblings and a pillar of strength for his whānau. Inspired by his late Koro, he believes true leadership means putting others first. Cypress's passion for healing and connecting his family to the taiao reflects his vision of creating lasting change for future generations. With an unwavering dedication to empowering his community, he aspires to lead by example and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow. 

A 20-year-old artist, photographer, and tour guide, expresses her love for nature and culture through her captivating artwork, prominently featuring birds like the tui, a tribute to her Koro. Based in Rotorua, she is deeply connected to her Māori roots and has actively participated in kapa haka with Tuhourangi Ngati Wahiao. As a tour guide for Kaitiaki Adventures, Anahera captures breathtaking moments in photography and is eager to further explore this self-taught passion. Her dream is to showcase her art globally, sharing indigenous stories and connecting with other cultures. With a heart for the environment and compassion for others, Anahera is poised to inspire change through her creative journey. 

A 21-year-old Cultural Representative and aspiring filmmaker from Ohinemutu, Anipātene is fueled by her passion for storytelling and cultural connection. Growing up in diverse environments, she has developed a unique perspective on cultural heritage, experiencing both Te Ao Māori and other worlds. She focuses on editing and production, contributing to various cultural projects that demonstrate her commitment to uplifting her community. Anipātene dreams of living sustainably and remotely, embodying "mokopuna thinking." Dedicated to inspiring rangatahi, she views film as a powerful medium for cultural exchange. With her talent, leadership and determination, she is well-positioned to preserve and share indigenous knowledge to effect change.

A a 16-year-old aspiring flight attendant from Ngāti Manawa, is a motivated student navigating high school challenges while pursuing her passion for tourism. Living on her tribal lands, she thrives in subjects like English, Physical Education, and Māori. Inspired by her mother’s dedication to uplifting rangatahi, Tylah-Fern dreams of connecting with diverse cultures through her career. With a deep love for Te Reo Māori and kapa haka, she excels in sharing her knowledge and values with others. Tylah-Fern aims to grow as a leader, inspire her community, and pave the way for future generations while honoring her cultural roots.