The former Edgecumbe College student completed a Bachelor of Media Arts (Visual Arts) degree at Wintec in Hamilton in 2009 and says while she enjoys graphic design, marketing is where her true passion lies.

“I love marketing and feel most fulfilled knowing that my work is helping the community in some way,” she says.

That was part of the attraction to working at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa.

“I really like that the wānanga is not just about education, it goes above and beyond and makes a real difference in the community.”

Gemma, who lives in Te Awamutu, particularly enjoys outdoor activities – including mountain biking and bush walking – and intends making the most of those opportunities in the Waikato.
“Apparently the Waikato is the heartland for cycling so I’m looking forward to embracing everything the region has to offer.”

Gemma, who has Ngāpuhi, Te Rarawa, Ngāti Maru and Ngāti Tūwharetoa ancestry, is also looking forward to taking advantage of any opportunities to increase her connection and knowledge of her whakapapa.

“I’m not really connected to my Māori side but I think working at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa will be a good opportunity to learn more. I’m particularly keen on learning weaving,” she says.