Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

By Mana Taurite (Equity) Team

An emotional mihi whakatau (welcome) was held for Canterbury and West Coast DHB’s three new equity staff in what is being described as a “new dawn” for the organisation.

The Mana Taurite (Equity) Team are: Rebecca Murchie, Kaiārahi Matua - Tupu whānake me mana taurite (Workforce Development Lead - Equity and Māori), Lee Tuki, Kaimātai - Mahi Māori (Workforce Development Partner - Equity and Māori), and Akira Le Fevre, Kaimātai - Mana Taurite me Kanorau (Workforce Development Partner - Equity and
Diversity).

They have been appointed to grow the diversity of our workforce. To both attract and recruit more kaimahi (staff) from diverse backgrounds but also to make the Waitaha Canterbury and Tai Poutini West Coast DHB’s a more culturally competent and inclusive place for all to be, and to work in a way that truly honours our commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Those attending the mihi whakatau included whānau and friends of the team, their previous colleagues, members of the Canterbury DHB executive team, and other Canterbury and West Coast DHB staff.

Executive Director Māori and Pacific Health Hector Matthews says the appointments will help grow our Māori workforce and the diversity of our transalpine workforce in Te Waipounamu.

“A lot of work has been carried out in the background to get us here. We are grateful for the mahi that Jo Domigan (Head of Equity, Recruitment and People Partnering) has
done.”

General Manager Māori Health, West Coast DHB Gary Coghlan, told those gathered:

“It’s a marvellous day. I would say that some time ago this wasn’t the greatest place for Māori and Pasifika peopleto work. However, I can see a huge change, the fact that
these three people are starting on this tells me about those changes. “I was lucky enough to be part of the interview panel and it was an absolute privilege to be part of that process. I saw people who really understand who they are, where they are going, what their tikanga is and are so passionate.”

Chief People Officer Mary Johnston said:

“This is a very special day and it’s been a long time coming. I have only been here five months but know the work that has gone on and I would like to thank Jo for all she has
done.” To the three appointees she said: “We are here to learn from you and I thank you for coming to us to lead us in this very important work. This is the start right now.”

Jo says it’s a privilege to be able to welcome the new team members and their whānau.

“This is a real moment for us as a DHB. It’s incredible to have this new team. It’s a new dawn, a new opportunity to serve our Māori and Pasifika, LGBTQIA, disability and other
communities in a more inclusive way. This represents the start of that. It’s a pretty special day” She told the new Equity team: “I’m looking forward to you all bringing yourselves. We hired you to be you, uniquely you and we are thrilled to have you. We are sincerely grateful that you have come here, this really means something.”

Rebecca says it is a real honour to be welcomed into the team.
“I am very excited to be here, and I am looking forward to working with you all. It is a fantastic time to be starting our journey alongside the establishment of the Māori Health
Authority board, a very exciting time.”

Akira says he is thankful for the beautiful welcome and proud to be part of the team.
“Thank you for creating this role that not only acknowledges but celebrates those of diverse identities. I am really excited to be able to work with this amazing team, learn from everyone and represent and support so many.”

Lee says she stands in awe of her two team members.
“I am going to learn so much from you (Rebecca and Akira) and can’t wait to get into the mahi.”

If you would like to contact the Mana Taurite (Equity) team please contact:

Rebecca Murchie (she/her)
Lee Tuki (she/her)
Akira Le Fevre (he/him)

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