It is with great sadness we acknowledged the passing of Nikki Kaye recently.

Nikki was a future focused leader who realised the potential of educational technology to make a difference in the lives of young people. Without her championing our mahi we wouldn't be here today, we owe Nikki an enormous debt of gratitude. Moe mai ra wahine toa!

In saying my private farewells to Nikki, I came to realise the enormity of her contribution in championing the mahi of many people. Her support for my work and for VLN Primary School was huge for us but just a small part of what she contributed in education and more widely.

When Nikki gave you her support, she was full on, full speed, full voice, as can be seen in this parliamentary debate where she makes a last ditch effort to save some small part of the CoOLs legislation with a Supplementary Order Paper to support online learning in schools.

Nikki got it! She understood the potential of online learning to provide equity to our rural, remote and disadvantaged learners. The need for policy and support for online learning is still no further ahead, but revisiting Nikki's efforts awhi's me to continue my efforts. The world needs more people with the power, passion and determination of Nikki Kaye! What an enormous legacy she leaves ✨