How do we bridge cutting-edge science with community-driven health solutions? Conor Watene O’Sullivan (Te Rarawa, Ngāti Maru, Ngāpuhi, Te Arawa) is the General Manager of The Moko Foundation, a leader in Māori health and population science. He’s driving Indigenous data sovereignty, precision medicine, and the integration of emerging technologies to improve Māori health outcomes—on Māori terms.

In this powerful kōrero, Conor reflects on his journey from kura kaupapa to health leadership, navigating both Indigenous and Western knowledge systems. He highlights the historical exclusion of Māori from biomedical research and the urgent need for Māori-led genomics and precision medicine. His work at The Moko Foundation is breaking down barriers, making science accessible, and inspiring rangatahi to step into STEM fields with confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• Māori have historically been excluded from medical research—we must now lead the development of precision medicine to serve our people.
• Genomics isn’t just science—it’s whakapapa. Our DNA holds the key to better health outcomes, and Māori must control how it’s used.
• The Moko Foundation is building a research model based on tikanga Māori, proving that science and Indigenous knowledge can work together.
• The future of Māori health is innovation—biotech, precision medicine, and Indigenous-driven research will create new economic and health opportunities.

🔗 Listen to the full kōrero here on our new MEA nei te kōrero Spotify Channel

We’re not just participants in science—we’re the innovators, researchers, and decision-makers shaping the future. #MāoriScience

#DataSovereignty #Genomics #PrecisionMedicine #IndigenousInnovation