Helen Varney is an experienced educational leader and advocate for equitable outcomes for Pacific learners. With extensive leadership experience across New Zealand schools and education networks, she is committed to strengthening leadership capability, fostering culturally responsive practice, and creating learning environments where every learner can succeed as themselves.

As Director of Tautai o le Moana – Wayfinders of the Ocean and a longtime member of the New Zealand Pasifika Principals Association, Helen works alongside principals, aspiring leaders, and education communities to build leadership that is relational, values-driven, and focused on improving outcomes for learners. Her work is grounded in Pacific ways of knowing, collaborative leadership, and the belief that strong relationships are the foundation for meaningful change.

Helen is passionate about developing leadership that honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi, embraces cultural diversity, and strengthens the connections between schools, families, and communities. Through facilitation, mentoring, and professional learning, she supports leaders to navigate complexity with confidence, lead with purpose, and create thriving educational communities where identity, language, culture, and success are valued and celebrated.

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Helenv@tolm.co.nz

Sepora Mauigoa is an experienced educational facilitator, former school principal, and long-standing member of the New Zealand Pasifika Principals Association. She is passionate about walking alongside leaders and educators to grow their confidence, strengthen their cultural capability, and create learning environments where every learner can thrive.

Drawing on Pacific values, her bilingual heritage, and extensive leadership experience, Sepora supports schools to embed the cultural competencies of Tapasā in meaningful and sustainable ways. Inspired by the wisdom of Pacific wayfinding, she helps leaders honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi through culturally responsive and relational leadership.

Grounded in the values of Tautua (service), Vā Fealoa'i (relational leadership), Atamai (wisdom and discernment), and Mana Reo and Mana Tikanga (language, identity, and culture), Sepora equips leaders to navigate complexity with confidence and purpose, cultivating inclusive school communities where people, culture, and learning flourish together.

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Seporam@tolm.co.nz

Jerry Leaupepe, a seasoned professional with a rich background in commerce, entrepreneurship, and innovation, now making waves at Tautai o le Moana. ​

Jerry's unique blend of industry experience and educational leadership is revolutionizing the way we approach education. He has seamlessly integrated his business acumen into the educational sphere, fostering an environment that encourages entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking among students. But Jerry's vision extends beyond the classroom. He is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of school leaders, leveraging his wealth of experience to provide them with the tools and insights they need to succeed. Jerry's approach is not just about teaching; it's about inspiring, empowering, and leading. At Tautai o le Moana, Jerry is more than a team member - he's a mentor, a guide, and a catalyst for change. This is Jerry Leaupepe - a leader committed to shaping the future of education, one leader at a time.

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Jerry.tautaiolemoana@gmail.com

Growing up surrounded by aiga who work in education, I developed a deep appreciation for the important role education plays in shaping the futures of our tamariki. I am passionate about supporting Pasifika learners to feel confident, connected and strong in their identity, language and culture. As a motivated, creative and detail-focused person, I bring a sense of organisation, purpose and care to my work. I enjoy bringing ideas to life, creating meaningful connections and supporting the work of Tautai o le Moana as we continue to contribute to Pasifika success across Aotearoa.

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litob@tolm.co.nz