Business and entrepreneurship
Pounamu Wharehinga
Gisborne
A graduate of the Pao Pao Pao Māori music academy, Pou has a collaborative music style, and a dream to use music to share ideas and messages with others -particularly youth.
She intends to study business and music next year and has a particular interest in developing waiata with indigenous peoples in Asia and strengthening relationships between New Zealand Māori and indigenous peoples across Asia.
Pouhas helped with the hosting of international delegations to Gisborne from China, Japan, and Malaysia.
A passionate advocate for the rights of people, Pounamu was selected this year as a representative for the New Zealand Youth Parliament, representing Marama Davidson.