South Auckland doctoral student wins Emerging Practitioner award

Chastity ('Chas') Mamea is a South Auckland creative artist, dancer, choreographer and researcher who keeps a very full schedule, working both as a graduate teaching assistant at the University and a Tuākana (mentor) for the Dance Studies programme.

Her research interests lie in the importance of cultural identity in street dance spaces in South Auckland and exploring how her findings could be used to develop community initiatives for urban Pasifika-Māori rangatahi.

"The support of the FAME Trust is an important milestone for me," she says.

"It's an indication that the community-centred mahi I am carrying out is supported, heard, and valued as I hope to contribute to the progressive change taking place within our South Auckland community."

Outside of school, Chas performs and serves as a business and funding adviser for Nappyboyz Dance Company, a group that provides performance opportunities for South Auckland.

Her studies have given her the skills to provide mentorship opportunities, performing platforms and wānanga centred around belonging for Pasifika and Māori youth.

Chas completed her Bachelor of Dance Studies (Honours) in 2021, and is now undertaking a PhD in Dance.

The Emerging Practitioner Award is an initiative of the FAME Trust (Fund for Acting and Musical Endeavours) in conjunction with the Acorn Foundation, who support up and coming artists and technicians around Aotearoa in the areas of music, contemporary dance and theatre.