Turning point inspires commitment to change, community, and career
In 2024, Bryce Marsh faced a major turning point in life that led to him studying Manaaki Tangata at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, setting him on a path of healing, self-discovery and a desire to give back to his community.
Bryce is transparent about his journey toward change, saying it began when he was incarcerated for drink driving offences after years of heavy drinking.
“That time was a catalyst for many changes I knew I had to make. The programme was recommended to me, and I quickly knew it aligned with my kaupapa, learning who I am and giving back to my community.”
As someone who identifies as takatāpui, Bryce said it was a difficult and isolating time navigating the justice system and the limited support available to him.
It was this experience that gave Bryce the drive to turn his life around and study a programme that gave him the knowledge and tools to rebuild his life and work towards a career supporting those who faced similar challenges.
“During my own haerenga, I never had someone in the system who identified as takatāpui. It was lonely. There’s a real gap in that space. So, part of my why is getting into these services, making sure our whānau don't have to walk that journey alone, and allowing for more representation within our mental health and addiction services.”
Throughout the programme, Bryce was able to grow in his identity, sense of belonging, and understanding of the leader he is now working towards becoming.
“The programme gave me the right tools to build my own rangatiratanga and not just shine for myself, but shine for others too. It helped me understand the person I choose to be when I show up in different spaces.”
Bryce is continuing his journey with Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, currently studying He Puāwai – Certificate in Adult and Tertiary Teaching at his local campus in Kawerau.
He hopes to secure a role at one of the local hauora services in the near future as he continues to build his skills and further his education.
“I want to give back to my community, especially our whānau Māori and takatāpui Māori. Ultimately, Manaaki Tangata was an empowering programme. It helped me strengthen who I am and what I want to do.”
Find out more about our Manaaki Tangata programme.
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