
Ra, a self-described people-person, was born and raised in Oraka - Colac Bay and moved to Christchurch in 1999 where he enjoyed a career in broadcasting (10 years at Tahu FM), health, television, iwi development, and more recently suicide prevention.
He worked at He Waka Tapu in Kia Piki Te Ora before moving to Whenua Kura (a Ngai Tahu farming education programme).
Ra, who says he’s “ecstatic” to be here at Nga Kete, applied for the position because he wanted to bring his skills to whanau in Murihiku.
“It’s home for me, and I wanted to help strengthen it.”
Part of Ra’s new role will focus on promoting mental health and wellbeing for Maori and supporting Maori community capacity development.
To this end Ra has been involved in event organization of visiting international music artists to New Zealand, and at a local level has been involved in community events such as the Waitaha, Kura Tua Rua, kapa haka competitions, marae events, whanau events, and health promotion.
Outside of work Ra enjoys kapa haka and league. “I’m a diehard Warriors fan.”