Walking Backwards into the Future

Kia ora te whānau

Whether you're a rangatahi, whānau member, or supporter, Tātai Whetū Waitaha is here to empower you as we journey through February into the new year it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and re-set goals for the year ahead.

It was another great year for the Taitai Whetu Programme, particularly our athletes, their whānau and support teams. It is always so inspiring as a Trustee to hear of the achievements of our athletes, not just on the sports field but in how they are developing personally. One of the key outcomes for the Trust is that we are helping support our athletes to be great people, ensuring they are able to give back to the broader community now and into the future.

As the Trust looks forward into 2025 and how we can keep this great mahi going, I am reminded of the whakatauki – “Ka mua, Ka muri“ – which means walking backwards into the future. For me personally its using the achievements of our athletes, to keep stretching ourselves and looking for those opportunities to further enhance the development of our young people. But also looking back on what went well, what didn’t and moving forward.

None of this would be achievable without the commitment from Ged, Tayla and Sam, who are now supported by Jo. But also to the coaches, teachers, whanau and all those that give their time to support our athletes to grow. Thank you to our sponsors who share this commitment. I am really excited to head into 2025 with the inspiration from you all to  guide us.

Annette Purvis
Trust Chair