Kia ora koutou, Ko Damian Bertanees tōku ingoa, and I’ve been teaching for the past 14 years, working alongside rangatahi to help them find their place, their voice, and their pathway forward. I currently serve as the Māori Dean at Bayfield High School, where my mahi centres on supporting ākonga Māori to thrive as Māori. My kaupapa, Re-engaging Rangatahi Māori Through Identity, Voice, and Career Exploration, comes from seeing firsthand that when our young people feel connected to who they are, they’re far more likely to engage in where they’re going. Alongside my dean role, I’m the teacher in charge of kapa haka, where I lead our rōpū not just in performance, but in building pride, discipline, and collective identity. I also coordinate whānau hui, helping strengthen the partnership between school and community—because our rangatahi succeed best when we move together. Outside the classroom, I’m involved in school productions and, a little differently, fencing—both spaces where students can challenge themselves, take risks, and grow confidence in ways that don’t always happen at a desk. My approach is grounded in whakawhanaungatanga, manaakitanga, and honest kōrero. I believe career exploration isn’t just about jobs—it’s about identity, belonging, and seeing futures that feel real and achievable. I’m passionate about creating spaces where rangatahi Māori can stand tall in who they are, speak with confidence, and step into pathways that reflect both their aspirations and their whakapapa. Ngā mihi nui.