Syrai-Tiare Taumihau
As a PhD candidate in Dance Studies, Syrai-Tiare has been able to explore her cultural identity and sense of belonging through movement.
Why did you choose to study Dance at the University?
“I chose the University of Auckland because of the intimate atmosphere of the Dance degree. When I entered the audition space, I immediately felt welcomed and comfortable.
“I am passionate about both dance and my cultural identity. My family is Tahitian, Cook Islands Māori, Tongan, Australian and New Zealand Pākehā.”
Exploring my cultural identity and the idea of belonging through the lens of movement and dance has allowed me to discover new things about myself, my whānau and my cultures.
“Doing a PhD in Dance also allows me to work creatively and with other dancers who share similar struggles. My research focuses on Māori and Pacific dance students negotiating and navigating cultural identity and belonging within a tertiary institution.”
What motivates your research?
“I am motivated by the idea that my research could one day help someone else in a similar situation to me. There is seemingly minimal research about Māori and Pacific dance students negotiating cultural identity and belonging while at university. I aim to help these students on their journey by providing evidence that supports their experiences or showing them that they can do whatever they wish to do.”
What do you most enjoy about your degree?
“I enjoy having the freedom to research something that interests me. I also enjoy taking time out to chat with other postgraduate students about their research, and it’s great having such supportive staff members in Dance Studies.”
Where to next?
“I hope to become a dance lecturer or tutor, but I’m keen to pursue any path my skills take me. I want to lend my knowledge to future students through teaching and adopt a more Indigenous/Pacific way of teaching within the University.”
Syrai-Tiare is a recipient of a University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarship.