NEW ZEALAND
A New Zealand Public Servant with a Samoan background has been recognised in the inaugural awarding of the country’s Public Service Medal.
Matalena Leaupepe (pictured) was honoured for her work building relationships between the Indigenous people of the Pacific Islands, often referred to as the Pasifika, and the public sector.
She was Chief Adviser, Pasifika, for the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment before being appointed Director of the Government Centre for Dispute Resolution in September.
Ms Leaupepe launched the Tupu Tai internship program in 2016, which has resulted in dozens of Pasifika graduates and students working in the Public Service.
“Tupu Tai has not only created pathways into the public sector, it has taught the public sector how to receive and work with Pacific people,” Ms Leaupepe said.
She said she hoped Tupu Tai would help the public sector become more diverse.
“We bring innovation, creativity, life and laughter to the work that we do, so I hope this is a sampler of what the future of the public sector might look like in the very near future,” Ms Leaupepe said.
Chief Executive of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, Carolyn Tremain said Ms Leaupepe personified the spirit of service.
“She has taken her position and managed to create something for the public sector as a whole,” Ms Tremain said.
“She started with very small beginnings and a limited budget and what we have seen over the last three years is the growth of a very important internship program for Pasifika people.”
Youth Justice worker Kyle Kuiti, Memorials Manager, Brodie Stubbs and Director of Education, Isabel Evans were also presented with the inaugural Medal.
Miriama Evans, who earned the title of “Wahine Toa” for her efforts in promoting Maori interests, was presented with the medal posthumously.
Wellington, 10 November 2018
