:rukumoana schaafhausen
Fear can drive one into a state of confusion, panic and self-doubt, but with the right direction fear is an ingredient for success
OUT
RUKUMOANA SCHAAFHAUSEN IS NOT a woman who flinches in the face of adversity. The accomplished lawyer/ consultant/director has risen above her 'humble beginnings' to become one of the most recognised up-and-coming Maori female directors in New Zealand. Rukumoana Tira Marie Schaafhausen
was named after the marae where her grandmother lived and where she spent much of her childhood. She was educated through the Morrinsville school system up to the age of 15 when she was pulled out of Morrinsville College to work as a receptionist at the local medical centre. "The story goes Dr Murphy from the
Morrinsville Medical Centre attended a funeral at the marae," Rukumoana tells. "I was quite a tall teenager and he thought I was older than I was. He told my grandmother that the centre was looking for a receptionist and asked if I would like the job. One thing led to another and during my first game of basketball I was called to the principal's office. I could hear, as I walked down the corridor, the principal pleading with my parents to keep me in school. I didn't have any choice and the next day I was put to work." For the next three years Rukumoana
worked to support her two younger brothers while her parents left Morrinsville to do seasonal work throughout the country. "I have always admired one of my tupuna,
Wiremu Tamihana who was a pioneer and a great leader of Ngāti Hauā. He was resolute in doing what he believed was right for the people. As a child I always wanted to be like him and make a difference beyond myself. Part of me knew I was capable of more and I could do more even though I was scared." With no qualifications an 18-year-old
"Part of me knew I was capable of more and I could do more even though I was scared."
24 | www.hermagazine.co.nz
STEPPING scared
