Breakfast & Kōrero with Dr Ashley Bloomfield & Helena Abolins-Thompson

Dr Ashley Bloomfield (pictured left) & Ngāti Toa PhD student Helena Abolins-Thompson (pictured left)

27th May 2025

Heaps of gems and takeaways from this morning’s breakfast kōrero!

This morning, we were privileged to host breakfast and kōrero with Dr Ashley Bloomfield and Ngāti Toa iwi member phd student Helena Abolins-Thompson, with strong support from our Ora Toa kaimahi and community.

Helena shared her research journey, grounding her study in te ao Māori and tikanga Māori, a critical foundation, especially for a kaupapa as sensitive, confronting, and often intimidating as cancer. Her kōrero reminded us of the importance of leading with cultural integrity and care.

Dr Bloomfield, as always, offered wisdom and inspiration with a focus on leadership. He reminded us that:

"People may not remember what you said or did, but they will always remember how you made them feel" & "Honesty, reliability, and competency are the cornerstones of leadership".

Ngā mihi to everyone who joined us this morning and to Helena and Ashley for the generous sharing of whakaaro that will stay with us for a long time to come.