Balancing Whānau, Mahi and Study
He uri tēnei no Wiremu Te Kakākura Parata.
Rebecca Clarke (Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Te Āti Awa ki Whakarongotai and Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga) is the granddaughter of Te Pehi Parata and Ani Parata, and daughter of Darrin Parata, recently graduated from Te Wānanga o Raukawa with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Psychology).
Rebecca Clarke and whanau at her recent graduation
Rebecca currently lives in Tāmaki Makaurau. She explains staying connected to her kaupapa and iwi remains an important part of who she is. As an adult learner, Rebecca began her academic journey with a desire to continue growing, challenging herself, and expanding her knowledge through education. Completing her degree while balancing whānau, mahi and the responsibility of everyday life made this three year journey and achievement of her tohu particularly meaningful.
Throughout her studies, Rebecca developed a deeper understanding of people, wellbeing, and the many factors that that influence our lives. Her learning sparked a strong interest in Kaupapa Māori approaches and the work of Māori psychologists and health Practitioner who will help bridge Western frameworks with Mātauranga Māori. Rebecca has always been passionate about understanding what influences our thoughts, feeling and behaviours. This degree offered her the opportunity to explore these questions in greater depth.
Rebecca acknowledges all those who pursue education in any forms, whether through formal study, mātauranga passed down through whānau, or the pursuit of knowledge in service to others. As an adult earner, she often found inspiration in the achievement of those who have walked similar paths before her. Their examples reinforced the belief that learning is a lifelong journey and that it is never too late to pursue new aspirations.
She would also like to make a special acknowledgement to Hine Tāhuparae and the tauira of Heke Te Whare (Raranga) at Te Wānanga o Raukawa for the privilege of wearing a beautiful korowai she wore in her graduation photo with her whānau. For Rebecca, the korowai symbolised the enduring connection between whakapapa, mātauranga, and the taonga handed down by our tūpuna. While one person receives the tohu, many people contribute to the journey in ways seen and unseen.
Looking ahead Rebecca, is preparing to begin postgraduate study with the goal of becoming a kaiako. As that journey unfolds, she hopes it may eventually lead her back home. In the meantime, she is looking forward to focusing on her hauora, spending time with her whānau, and supporting her tamariki as they navigate their own journey, through life.