Māori and Pasifika Students’ Association

Maddy Roberts (she/her) - Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Kahu ki Whangaroa

Ariana Roberts (she/her) - Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Porou

For many psychology students, studying psychology means thinking about the communities we belong to and the people we hope to support one day. Māori and Pasifika continue to be disproportionately represented in adverse mental health outcomes while remaining just a small proportion of psychology students and registered psychologists. We, as the Māori and Pasifika Psychology Students’ Association, understand that there lies such importance in seeing psychologists whose experiences, values, and worldviews reflect those of the people they serve. This is why we are committed to encouraging and supporting our Māori and Pasifika psychology students throughout their journey here at Te Herenga Waka. By creating a space where tauira feel supported in their studies, connected to their peers, and encouraged to succeed, we hope to help them feel confident to pursue their aspirations within the psychology field.

This year, we have hosted a number of study wā with a particular focus on upcoming tests and assignments for our first-year courses. These sessions are supported by tutors, past students, and executive members to provide dedicated and focused support. We have also worked closely alongside Ngāi Tauira and the Pacific Students’ Council. Ngāi Tauira has been a valuable source of support for us as a newer association, helping us build our profile and fill in gaps. Through our work with PSC, we have attended all Loto Aho and Ako Lelei study sessions as tutors for first-year students. This year was also our first time being involved in the festivities of their Pasifika Week, where we volunteered at events including the cultural launch, quiz night, and Pasifika market. In other firsts, we are also one of the many STEM associations helping to organise the upcoming STEM ball. It has been a great opportunity to get involved in wider university events and connect with other student groups.

In the last few weeks of the trimester, we will continue to hold our regular study wā, as well as an event in collaboration with PSC in Week 8. We are also currently fundraising for our annual scholarships through our raffle. The proceeds will go towards two $1000 scholarships—one for a Māori psychology student and one for a Pasifika psychology student. We hope these scholarships provide additional financial support for our tauira and recognise the effort they put into their studies.

It has been a really fun and rewarding year for us so far, and we are grateful to everyone who has helped us along the way. We are looking forward to continuing to support our students and create opportunities to connect with one another. Keep an eye on our Instagram @vuw.mppsa for upcoming events, study wā, and other ways to get involved with MPPSA.

Ngā mihi maioha ki a koutou!