5 Reasons to Learn Te Reo Māori
Te Reo Māori is an integral part of Aotearoa New Zealand’s identity and cultural heritage. However, the benefits of learning and speaking Te Reo Māori extend far beyond simply preserving a language.
There are several ways that speaking and understanding Te Reo Māori can help you in your career.
1. Improved Communication Skills: Learning Te Reo Māori can enhance your ability to communicate effectively with Māori clients and colleagues. By being able to speak the language, you can build stronger relationships with them, which can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. Being able to understand and use Te Reo Māori can also help to break down communication barriers and improve overall communication skills.
2. Cultural Competency: Understanding Te Reo Māori can help you to better understand Māori culture and tikanga. This can broaden your world view and give you a deeper appreciation for Aotearoa New Zealand’s unique identity. This is especially important in industries where cultural competency is essential, such as healthcare, education, and government.
3. Increased Job Opportunities: Many organisations, particularly those with a focus on Te Tiriti O Waitangi, require staff to have some level of Te Reo Māori competency. Having a good understanding of the language can open up a wider range of job opportunities for you, as you’ll be able to demonstrate cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the importance of Te Reo Māori.
4. Recognition and Respect: By learning Te Reo Māori, you are showing respect for Māori culture and helping to promote its preservation and revitalisation. This can lead to greater recognition and respect from Māori colleagues and clients, as well as the wider community.
5. Leadership Opportunities: In some industries, having a strong understanding of Te Reo Māori and Māori culture can position you as a leader in your field. This is particularly true in industries where cultural competency is essential, such as healthcare, education, and government.
Overall, there are many benefits to learning and speaking Te Reo Māori. Whether you’re looking to enhance your communication skills, broaden your world view, or increase your job opportunities, Te Reo Māori can help you achieve your goals. So why not consider learning Te Reo Māori this year?
