Turning a passion for rongoā into community healing
Rongoā Māori has always been part of Patricia Tangira-Falwasser's life, but it was her studies at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa that deepened her knowledge and inspired her to start a business that now serves her wider community.
Born and raised in Kawerau, Patricia was able to complete her studies at the local Te Wānanga o Aotearoa campus, Te Kura o te Toroa, gaining both a Certificate in Rongoā and a Diploma in Rongoā.
"I've always had a passion for rongoā. It's not just about the plants, it's part of who we are. It's part of our whakapapa, our connection to our ancestors, and ngā atua."
Patricia's passion for rongoā began at an early age. From spending time in the bush with her father as he shared his knowledge of the ngahere while hunting, to supporting her tamariki during their time at kōhanga reo, these experiences ignited a lifelong connection to rongoā.
"My dad used to take me hunting and into the bush. He would talk to me about the trees and the ngahere. A lot of that rongoā knowledge came from him. Then I decided to study and extend on my passion for rongoā."
During her studies, Patricia was amazed by how much more there was to learn about native plants and their healing properties.
She also gained a range of practical skills that she now applies in her business, BOPS Rongoā For You, including preparing poultices, tinctures, oils and herbal infusions.
"Learning about the plants, what they do, and how to make panipani, tinctures and infusions was amazing. There was just so much to learn."
Through her business, Patricia uses her knowledge and skills to support the health and wellbeing of her whānau and the Kawerau community.
While building a business has come with its challenges, she remains focussed on helping others and sharing the healing practices of rongoā that she's so passionate about.
"I get customers, clients, and whānau that come to me on the regular. They are why I studied rongoā, so I could help and support my community."
Patricia's grateful for the learning journey she's been on and encourages others to take up opportunities to further their education, whether that be in rongoā or any other area of interest.
"Study helps you advance yourself and grow as a person. If there's something you're passionate about, go for it."
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