Digital Natives Academy

What Sets Them Apart

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DNA integrates hauora and holistic care into all learning environments, recognising that wellness is fundamental to educational success. The Academy leverages gaming as a culturally relevant entry point into tech and offers customised, NZQA-accredited programmes through a Māori-led Private Training Establishment (PTE). With a biosphere-inspired vision for sustainability and community growth, DNA embodies a unique model that nurtures both personal and professional development.

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Tauārai – Barriers

• Limited access to digital tools and mentorship, especially in rural areas
  
• Bureaucratic challenges establishing a PTE without guaranteed funding
  
• Lack of investment in Māori-led innovation and economic development
  
• Systemic bias in creative industries and mainstream project funding
  
• Cultural suppression in tech environments
  
• Absence of localised, clear career pathways in tech for rangatahi
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Recommendations

• Increase long-term investment in Māori-led initiatives and PTE development
  
• Address learners’ holistic needs with wraparound support and wellness integration
  
• Develop region-specific, culturally grounded tech pathways
  
• Expand digital infrastructure and access to mentorship
  
• Diversify income streams to reduce reliance on external funding
  
• Support Māori participation in creative and digital industries
  
• Leverage gaming as a meaningful pathway into tech careers
  
• Promote inclusive, culturally safe learning and work environments

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Why It Matters

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DNA shows how kaupapa Māori innovation, when adequately resourced and rooted in community needs, can transform the tech sector. By fostering digital inclusion, cultural confidence, and career readiness, DNA offers a powerful model for growing a resilient Māori tech workforce and closing equity gaps in Aotearoa’s digital future.

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Photo © Nikolasa Biasiny-Tule