The nine scholarships winners of the inaugural Tapuhi Kaitiaki Awards were announced at the Indigenous Nurses conference earlier this month by sponsor Pharmac and NZNO’s Te Pōari o Te Rūnanga o Āotearoa.
The Tapuhi Kaitiaki Awards recognise Māori nurses who are furthering their studies, clinical practice and professional development while continuing to support the wellbeing of whānau, hapū and iwi.
“Māori nurses play a unique role in the health sector in that they are both clinically and culturally competent health professionals,” said NZNO Kaiwhakahaere Kerri Nuku on the new awards.
Alison Hill, Pharmac’s Director of Engagement and Implementation said a Pharmac goal was eliminate inequities in access to medicines by 2025, and improving Māori health outcomes was a key focus.
“Māori health professionals have a pivotal role in helping Māori understand and access the medicines they need,” said Hill.
“We were really pleased with the quality of the applications, which painted a vivid picture of the deep understanding and strong commitment these nurses have to serving their communities through their profession. I was impressed to see how much these nurses fit into their daily lives, juggling their studies, tamariki, home and professional lives.
She said each of the nine winners demonstrated strong connections and dedication to their whakapapa and community, while continuing to strive towards excellence in their studies or professional practice.
Recipients of the 2018 Tapuhi Kaitiaki awards each received $2000 to $2500.
