I had thought about applying to do a Masters programme at some point, but I had never found a programme that resonated with me. I didn’t like the idea of taking a break from my work or completing a programme that wasn’t tailored to my context. All of my past studies had been through a large University where I had felt isolated and challenged by the restrictive nature of their programmes and student supports. Ako Mātātupu’s Master of Community Action and Social Impact provided the opportunity to work with my community, drawing on my relationships and experiences and lived knowledge of the challenges we are hoping to overcome.
The course has deepened my understanding of the context I am working in, and provided me with research and rangahau that is relevant to my community and the project we are designing. The community of care provided to candidates, catering to individual needs has been game changing. The programme has been delivered with flexibility in mind, with on-line sessions and in-person wānanaga that have supported us to journey together as a cohort, learning from one another, and creating a family-like environment. This has been by far the best experience I have had in formal education and would unreservedly recommend this opportunity to anyone looking to complete a Masters programme.
Why did you choose this programme and what does it mean to you?
I found our first semester, where we looked into positionality in relation to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and social justice movements both locally and internationally have been challenging and rewarding in equal measure. These formal “delivered” learnings have been enhanced through the discussions within our cohort. My fellow candidates have also been invaluable support through the programme. I have deeply valued the diverse experiences and perspectives they have shared.
I hope that as a result of my Masers project our community will continue to grow together, learn from each other and realise our aspirations of a fairer Aotearoa New Zealand for all young people.
