Māori success in Aotearoa’s digital and tech
industries has been underscored with Elle Archer being
crowned Inspiring Individual in the 2024 New Zealand Hi-Tech
Awards.
“We’re thrilled that the visionary
leadership Elle brings to the sector has been recognised and
shows the ever-increasing contribution Māori are making to
digital and tech,” said Katie Brown Chief Executive of Te
Hapori Matihiko and Te Ao Matihiko.
“She’s setting
the standard and inspiring the next generation of young
Māori digital and technology professionals.”
Elle
(Ngāti Tamaterā, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Porou, Ngāpuhi,
Ngāi Tūhoe) is an experienced leader in business,
governance and technology, and currently serves as
the
Te Executive Chair, Te Ao Matihiko.
Elle
said; “This recognition is not just for me, but for the many
doing the mahi and making a difference. I hope this award
shows to all Māori tech practitioners that the unique
perspective they bring is invaluable in shaping Aotearoa New
Zealand’s tech landscape.
“My hope is that this
recognition will inspire more Māori to enter and excel in
technology fields. Diversity drives innovation and
creativity within the tech sector and all of society can
benefit from the solutions we provide.
“What really
matters for me is that we are working together to ensure
technology is accessible to all. Digital equity is all about
harnessing the power of technology to improve lives and that
means all communities must have equal access.
Advertisement – scroll to continue reading
“This is
what inspires me every day and I hope this Award serves as a
beacon to others to what can be achieved when you blend
Māori and indigenous perspectives with cutting-edge
technology.”
Katie Brown said Elle is part of a
growing number of skilled Māori digital experts and
entrepreneurs who are making their name in the sector. But
despite the tech sector contributing $20 billion to New
Zealand’s GDP in 2022 and employing 118,000 people, only
4.8% of them are Māori. Of that 4.8%, only a third are
wāhine Māori.
“We need to build on this which is why
we run the annual Matihiko Awards, they’re an important
way to celebrate success and inspire Māori participation in
the digital and tech industry,” said Katie Brown.
The
Awards mark achievement across 11 categories, including
Living Icon, Emergent Icon, Change Maker, Kaupapa, Whiua ki
te Ao, Kaitiaki o te Taiao, Public Sector, Kaiāwhina,
Corporate Change, Innovation, and Rangatiratanga.
The
2024 Matihiko Awards will be held on Saturday 22nd June 2024
at the Due Drop Event Centre in Manukau, Tāmaki Makaurau
(Auckland).
Advertisement – scroll to continue reading
