This week Te Au Pakihi Māori Business Network along with the Central Economic Development Agency (CEDA) hosted an engaging and inspiring breakfast hui Massey University.

The hui included presentations by Te Aho Tāmaka Manawatū Leader, Dr Farah Palmer and Te Au Rangahau Co-Director, Dr Jason Mika about their recent work and travels.

The breakfast was also Dr Palmer’s official welcome into the Te Aho Tāmaka programme. Te Aho Tāmaka is a CEDA led initiative that acknowledges and celebrates our region’s most accomplished leaders across all fields – academia, business, arts, sport, culture, theology and more and who are recognised for their work nationally and globally. And behind each of these leaders' journeys, Palmerston North and Manawatū have played an important role in shaping who they are today.

Farah was presented with the award by the Mayors of Palmerston North City and Manawatu District and on accepting the award expressed pleasure to have been asked to become a Leader and her support for the kaupapa of the programme.

Dr Farah Palmer was recognised as a Te Aho Tāmaka Leader in December last year but was yet to be presented with her award. Former Captain of the Black Ferns and only women on the NZ Rugby Board, Palmer was one of the co-founders of the Te Au Pakihi Māori Business Network.