CO FOUNDER - TAULA

Nina is a proud second-generation New Zealand born Cook Islander. A multimedia Artist Nina is devoted to connecting Moana peoples to ancestral knowledge through artefact and Pacific heritage artforms.

Nina has a background in management, project design, community education, arts and Pacific heritage material.

2020 Macmillan Brown artist in residence, Trustee of SCAPE Public Arts Trust and member of DIA community grant committee. Nina is committed to a future New Zealand where Pacific peoples are valued, have equitable access to all things and are uplifted to achieve anything and everything imaginable.

CO-FOUNDER/ TRUSTEE

Jan-Hai is of Samoan, Chinese and Tongan descent. Hailing from the villages of Lotofagā, Fasito’o-uta, Toamua and Pu’aPu’a. Jan-Hai is a passionate advocate for Pasifika disabled communities. Proud mother of Che and Wiremu, who are both on the autistic spectrum. Jan-Hai is Chair of All Star Kids; a Holiday program for children who have special needs and chronic illness in Christchurch.

With a background in sporting, psychology and tech community education, Jan-Hai is passionate about bridging the Digital Divide and making safe inclusive spaces for Pacific youth.

BOARD CHAIR

Riki Welsh is Samoan Niuean born and raised in Christchurch. He worked at the University of Canterbury for 13 years where he held a number of roles including Director of Maori, Pacific, and Rainbow student services, helping to raise the achievement of some of our priority learners. Riki has a strong passion for education, young peoples participation in democracy, and seeing a sustainable Aotearoa.

TRUSTEE / SECRETARY

Katarina brings a wealth of experience in communications, project management, and stakeholder engagement to her role as Secretary of Tagata Moana Trust. Currently working as a consultant in technology transformation, she is passionate about leveraging her expertise to support the Trust’s mission of growing the presence of Pacific peoples in STEAM careers.

Originally from Fiji, Katarina has made Ōtautahi her home, where she lives with her husband, six-year-old son, and their dog. Her commitment to fostering opportunities for Pacific communities reflects her dedication to creating meaningful impact through innovative and collaborative approaches.