Tama (Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Ngāti Konohi, Ngāti Rākaipaaka, Ngāti Kahungunu, Kāi Tahu) is an experienced leader with a passion for te reo, tikanga Māori and Māori development and educational success. He is skilled in strategic planning and implementation, coaching, curriculum development and facilitation.

He has worked for the Māori Language Commission and held leadership and advisory roles in education. The widespread use of te reo and kaupapa Māori typifies Tama’s approach to everyday life and he is excited about the opportunity to be part of building a new model for vocational education.

Tama has an undergraduate degree and honours in Te Reo Māori from Te Herenga Waka/Victoria University and a diploma in primary teaching. Prior to joining Toi Mai, he was Kaihautū Mātauranga Māori/Māori education leader at Te Kura o Te Mātauranga/Institute of Education at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa/Massey University.