Photo: Supplied/University of Waikato
A MΔori Rhodes Scholar says MΔkereti (Maggie) Papakura, believed to be the first indigenous woman to study at Oxford, was a huge inspiration behind his choice to study at the same university.
University of Waikato honours student Naianga Tapiata will complete a two-year Master of Philosophy in Social Anthropology at Oxford from 2026.
"We heard the stories of Maggie Papakura growing up, but I never dreamed of it, never saw it being possible," he said. "Then I remember the first time I was lucky enough to go to Oxford and visit her urupΔ.
"That, I think, sparked something in me where I realised, 'Oh, this is possible.
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