Accessible, empathetic, sincere. These three words are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Business Management Programmes pouako/tutor Pam Bidois. With 30-plus years of working in administration across the education, health and social welfare sectors, Pam’s natural affinity for people is unequivocal. Now, in her role at Aspire2, she gets to combine that with her passion for kaupapa Māori, encouraging and motivating our students as they progress through the NZ Certificate in Māori Business & Management.

“I’m excited to work for an organisation which supports nga akonga (students) to understand the importance of incorporating kaupapa Māori in business and cultural contexts. I believe it is necessary and can eliminate fear and ignorance. He waka eke noa! We’re all in this together!”

Assisting students to widen their knowledge of Māori business, Māori principles, Te Reo and Tikanga is a role Pam is well-equipped for. As well as her enthusiasm for celebrating students’ success, she has a Diploma in Te Reo Māori – Tikanga, certificates in management, organisation and leadership and she’s been a lifelong contributor to her local Tauranga community, supporting whanau, marae, hapu, iwi and community events.

“I remain grateful and privileged to have the opportunity to share some of my culture with others to enable a wider view and understanding of the benefits of incorporating Māori tikanga, values and practices into New Zealand businesses – and even to the rest of the world.”

He aha te mea nui o te ao? Maku e ki atu he tangata he tangata he tangata!

What is the most important thing in the world? I will tell you it is people, it is people, it is people!