Tansi and kia ora koutou,
It is with a great deal of pleasure that we proudly present the final report from the inaugural Indigi-X programme – a unique virtual exchange between indigenous professionals in Aotearoa and Canada.
The concept was first developed in May this year, and within just two weeks, the first cohort had been selected, with dozens more added to a waiting list for future programmes.
The first hui was held (virtually) on June 26 and 27, where the team and objectives were introduced. By the second week, six working groups had been developed and were focused on important issues.
The cohort developed and presented their findings to a virtual audience of 72 people in July, including Hon. Nanaia Mahuta, New Zealand’s Minister of Māori Development, and Hon. Caroline Bennett, the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations in Canada.
In total, 18 recommendations have been provided to each Government, with both Ministers agreeing to hold a bilateral meeting to discuss these further.
In short, the inaugural Indigi-X programme has been a resounding success. Everyone involved should be extremely proud of their mahi and efforts to make this concept a reality.
This final report is the living embodiment of a stronger connection between indigenous professionals across our two nations. It is an important step towards building a better future for generations to come – we can’t wait to see where it takes us.
Enjoy.
Chris Karamea Insley
Chairman
View the newsletter and download the report here.