The Nature Conservancy’s ‘Nature’s Leading Women’ gathering

For Aneika Young, Poutohutohu Ao Māori Advisor for the Kotahitanga mō te Taiao Alliance and TNC NZ, said the event reaffirmed the importance of Indigenous voices not only being present but also leading. "It’s about making sure our people aren’t just in the room, but that they’re holding the pen, shaping the kaupapa." Aneika highlighted the significance of representation and self-determined storytelling, inspired by seeing the Solomon Islands women presenting their visual work.

"Seeing the way other Indigenous women approach conservation in their own spaces was really eye-opening—there’s so much we have in common, but also so much to learn from each other. It was powerful to be in a space where everyone had a shared understanding of what it means to be Indigenous in their own worlds, but also seeing the differences in how we navigate these spaces."

Renēe Love, representing the Taiao team of Te Ātiawa o te Waka-a-Māui, stepped into the gathering at the last minute but found it a rare and transformative experience. She was moved by the act of weaving, storytelling, and sharing traditions with women from diverse backgrounds.

"Despite coming from different lands and languages, we connected through our shared commitment to the whenua and the moana. The gathering reminded me of the strength that lies in Indigenous women supporting one another."

As Aneika put it, “When we lead, the whole kaupapa shifts.”

Te Ātiawa o te Waka-a-Māui Trust would like to thank Kotahitanga mo Te Taiao, and The Nature Conservancy for funding this amazing opportunity for Renēe and Aneika to attend.

Photos @The Nature Conservancy/Nikita Pere