F I V E M I N U T E S W I T H A L IC E A N DR E W
I find ways to help people recognise the importance of our spiritual connection with our natural resources, within the constraints of the regulatory environment. ALICE ANDREW
Photo: Virginia Woolf
Why did you apply to be an associate director?
Are there any whakataukī that you live by?
I am incredibly proud of our tūpuna, and their
Toitū te marae a Tāne, Toitū te marae a Tangaroa,
legacy. I’m at a time in my life where I’m ready for
Toitū te Iwi. Such a simple concept but it sums up
new challenges that align with my personal goals.
everything. I have shaped my life and career around it.
I also wanted to reconnect with Wakatū. I want to use my skills and experience to
Who were you influenced by?
contribute to the awesome mahi already underway.
My mum, because she doesn’t fit the mould. She
I’ve been involved with a bunch of projects
put herself through university, gaining a degree in
that I am passionate about, such as Karioi, the
mathematics and then became a teacher. She brought
indigenous crops project. I have enjoyed the energy
us up to have integrity and stand strong for what we
of the organisation and have loved meeting people,
believe in, and that nothing should hold us back from
many of them whānau. I feel I have a lot to give
doing the stuff that boys get to do. Also, my dad and
and a lot more to learn. There are some amazing
my uncles. They equipped me with the ability and
people in this organisation that I can learn from. I
confidence to deal with men, which comes in handy
am in awe of our women leaders – they inspire me.
when you’re a woman in engineering.
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