Executive Board President’s Report
Kia ora koutou,
We were honoured to attend the special pōwhiri for Moihi Hakaraia, our new Māori Cultural Lead for Whaikaha and Deaf Aotearoa.
Thank you to Erica, Rosie, and the amazing Deaf Aotearoa team for their hard work in making NZSL Week another successful celebration of language and community pride.
As a proud Turi Māori wahine, I am encouraged to see more Turi Māori taking on leadership roles in our community. The work of Te Rōpū Kaitiaki is vital, and Deaf Aotearoa is committed to working closely with them. Our Executive Board is finalising our new Turi Māori Strategy, ensuring that Turi Māori perspectives are reflected throughout our organisation.
In July, Ryan, Erica, James, and I attended the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) Conference in Kenya. It was a privilege to represent Aotearoa and learn alongside Deaf leaders from around the world. Key topics included gender equality for Deaf women, Artificial Intelligence and sign language, climate change, and building strong Deaf organisations. These learnings are helping us strengthen our advocacy.
I have also been building relationships with Deaf Australia, discussing shared challenges and the need for stronger Deaf leadership. Together with Deb and Shirley, we have explored creating a professional network between Deaf Australia and Deaf Aotearoa, including leadership training hosted alternately by each country.
Board representatives also attended the whakairo at Auckland Deaf Society, celebrating the launch of a stunning Māori carving exhibition by John Rua. It was a beautiful reminder of the strength and pride within our Deaf and Māori communities.
After four years as President, I am stepping back from this role but will continue as a Board member. It has been a privilege to serve, and I thank everyone for your trust, support, and belief in our shared vision.
Ngā mihi nui,
Joanne Klaver
Executive Board President, Deaf Aotearoa
