We wish to extend our heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the I Have a Dream team to Mo Matautia-Tepania who recently graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Management from Capable NZ, Otago Polytechnic – Te Pūkenga.
Mo pursued this degree as a continuation of her participation in the New Zealand Leadership Programme, which she acknowledges for enhancing her confidence and enabling her to better embrace her leadership potential. The New Zealand Leadership Programme brings together a diverse range of participants to realise their roles as changemakers, and to foster a connected community of leaders working towards a more equitable Aotearoa.
Mo is of Ngāpuhi and Samoan descent, and she attributes her achievements to her whānau (family), crediting them for their unwavering support, guidance, and belief in her journey, which has been instrumental in helping her lean into the challenges and celebrate successes.
Mo is a trailblazer who naturally embodies the leadership skills and vision needed to navigate the complexities of a dynamic business landscape. While very humble, Mo demonstrates a solid foundation in strategic thinking, innovative problem-solving, and the ability to drive meaningful change.
Recently promoted to General Manager – Operations, Mo shies away from shining a spotlight on her own achievements, preferring to focus on connection with others and the collective success of the team over personal accolades.
“My greatest pride lies in the strong relationships nurtured with our Dreamers, Whānau, Navigators and Community, as well as with our Tumuaki (Principals) and Kaiako (Teachers).” Mo said.
Mo also acknowledges the opportunities afforded to her through I Have a Dream. “As well as supporting me through the New Zealand Leadership programme, I Have a Dream has allowed me to become an active leader in the Whangārei community. Ultimately, I am driven to grow and succeed for the benefit of others, rather than myself” she said.
Mo deserves hearty recognition of her success, as well as acknowledgment of the strong example of wāhine (female) Māori/Pasifika leadership she is setting for others.
Women are underrepresented in Management in New Zealand, holding only about 39% of management positions, as of 2021*, highlighting ongoing challenges in achieving gender parity.
Fostering trust and collaboration within the team underpins Mo’s leadership approach. The example that Mo is setting is one of integrity and authenticity in actions, which inspires loyalty and respect. Her strong but humble leadership creates an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.
Mo’s timeline of achievements:
Mo’s ongoing commitment to education, youth development and personal development has empowered her to harness diverse perspectives, promote collaboration, and foster innovation within I Have a Dream.
*Source: Stats NZ, “Gender Statistics: Women in Management”.
Learn more about the New Zealand Leadership Programme
The New Zealand Leadership Programme (NZLP) is delivered through unique immersive and experiential retreats, which are held over a 9-month period. Our 2025 Programme consists of six retreats.
Each cohort of leaders is carefully drawn from diverse backgrounds and sectors to reflect a balance of profit/not-for-profit, private/public leaders, and a range of genders, cultural backgrounds, worldviews, and regional representation.
Aotearoa is a super diverse nation, and the cultural intelligence of our leaders is a key enabler to achieving ever higher levels of societal cohesion, creativity and innovation. We are proud of our legacy of excellence in creating learning with people who bring diversity of thought and perspective. Our participants and speakers represent the super diverse spectrum of incredible leaders across New Zealand. We take participants on a journey so that they can become the best leader they can be.
Learn more about the Bachelor of Applied Management
Otago Polytechnic is currently a business unit of Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (Te Pūkenga).
This business degree is based in real-world knowledge to use the constantly changing business environment. This practical programme is centered around industry experience and workplace-based learning with an internship component in year 3.
Through this hands-on learning experience, participants develop the understanding and skills to work in a range of management environments at operational and strategic levels.
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