The regional Manu Kōrero speeches were performed in the Ōtepoti Town Hall yesterday.

Columba College had Lula (Year 10), representing our school and herself beautifully.

The focus of this speech competition has expanded from a focus on linguistic excellence to include political and social awareness amongst youth. Ngā Manu Kōrero provides a forum where students both Māori and non-Māori can stand and voice their opinions on current issues that they face today.

It has been a vehicle for rangatahi (youth) to develop and further enhance their language skills as an art form, thus arming them with tools to pursue further artistic vocations.

Lula is a young Māori wahine who did herself and Columba College proud as she delivered her stunning speech with confidence and grace.

Lula was entered into the prepared Junior English section and the theme was Whakatauki- The uncut jewels of Māori wisdom, for which she was placed second.

Lula’s speech was eloquent, and passionate, she spoke of how whakatauki can be a wise and inspirational form from past generations and how they can be relevant for today’s rangatahi.

Her words and the other speakers made me feel hopeful for the world which we all inhabit.

Lula was supported by Columba and John McGlashan’s Kapa Haka.