Creative ID: 756
My arts or creative practice (including details about my specific focus within that art form/practice and my strengths)
Kia ora and talofa lava, I have written, directed and produced high school productions with Māori and Pasifika themes. I've collaborated with local writers to self-publish short stories and poetry collections. I am an author, artist and creative with the ability to see a project from the beginning through to a successful finish.
My track record of experience and success - or the track record of experience and success of the creative or artist that I will partner with
I have at least written five plays that were successful high school productions for several South Auckland high schools in the past. Those plays have since been self-published and are available for schools. I am also an academic, an author and an artist of several self-published picture books of ancient Samoan stories, poetry and short stories. I have spoken at various schools regarding my books and background. I'm happy to support students where I can.
Describe the experience you have had working with children or young people, teaching or facilitating creative processes
I have successfully written, directed and produced high school productions in the past. I have been a guest speaker to various schools from bilingual Early childhood centres to primary and secondary schools. I am a qualified high school English teacher and taught in high schools for six years before moving into teaching in the tertiary education sector. I have collated short stories and poetry collections of adults as well as children's writing as well. I have been interested in working with Pasifika and Māori students in the past of all ages. I'm currently a board of trustees member for a primary school and a Chairperson of a local bilingual Early childhood centre.
Why I want to be part of the Creatives in Schools programme and how my involvement will link to my creative practice
I have been involved in teaching for over 30 years and particularly in the creative arts as a writer and artist. I've enjoyed being involved with young people in their creative endeavours and I've seen the change that it makes when young people become successful and confident through projects such as high school productions which are positively life changing. I've seen the same when producing a short stories and poetry collection. Writers gain confidence within themselves when they see their works being shared with an audience and the sense of pride and happiness that it can have on one person and then many.