Te Mana Pounamu

Te Mana Pounamu is an inclusive student-led club, dedicated to supporting Māori and Pacific UC students towards academic success, professional development within business, and cultural connection.

Our goal is to provide a platform for tauira by integrating indigenous perspectives into business education. We believe in this approach to academic success, recognising that learning extends beyond the classroom. Through a range of different initiatives, we hope to provide a space where our members can have access to academic resources, networking opportunities, and industry connections that will enhance their employability and leadership potential.

Te Mana Pounamu is committed to upholding tikanga Māori and Pacific cultural values in all aspects of our activities. We facilitate opportunities for our members to engage with leading businesses and professionals, providing valuable insights into the corporate world while also championing Indigenous knowledge and perspectives in commerce. Our club is not just about career advancement; we also prioritise whakawhanaungatanga, creating a supportive and socially connected community through cultural and social events that bring our members together.

As a club, we acknowledge and uphold the University of Canterbury’s relationship with Ngāi Tūāhuriri and Ngāi Tahu as mana whenua, ensuring that our initiatives align with local iwi aspirations. We also embody UC’s core values of Tiakitanga, Manaakitanga, Whanaungatanga, Aroha, Pono, and Utu in everything we do.

Te Mana Pounamu is more than a club—it is a movement towards empowering Māori and Pacific students in business, fostering leadership, and paving the way for a future where our important indigenous perspectives are at the forefront of commerce and industry.