Ako Aotearoa was proud to welcome 97 attendees from across the South Island tertiary education community to the 2025 Southern Regional Forum. This final regional forum for 2025 brought educators, leaders, Te Whatu Kairangi Awardees and former colleagues together to explore the future of tertiary education in Aotearoa New Zealand and promote sector collaboration.
Keynote speaker for the Southern Regional Forum, University of Canterbury Vice-chancellor, Cheryl de la Rey, focused on the realism of being an educator during uncertain times in her presentation on cultivating thought leadership and excellence in teaching. She highlighted that the definition of ‘excellence’ is constantly evolving, and that to achieve excellence in teaching, educators must strive to embody what she termed ‘The Three R’s’ – Resilience, Responsiveness, and Relevance. This set the tone for the day, as both attendees and presenters reflected on this concept throughout the event.
Keynote speaker Cheryl de la Rey presenting on cultivating thought leadership and excellence in teaching.
Through our post-event evaluation process, attendees have expressed their appreciation for Ako Aotearoa’s hosting of the forum, saying:
“It was great to have a day away from BAU and to think and hear about others' ideas and the bigger picture(s) in tertiary education. The forums are a fantastic resource for educators”
Other attendees also commented on how the forum motivated them to change how they approach their teaching practices:
“Explore what partnerships we can form both internally and externally, to develop future-focused systems, tools and resources for ākonga.”
Southern Sector Services Manager, Jennifer Leahy has also reflected on the quality of the presentations and the forum, saying how proud she was of the event’s atmosphere and impact. “It was emotional, uplifting, and filled with inspiration" she said. “The presenters' authenticity and engagement helped set a tone of warmth and connection that carried through the day.”
Jennifer also spoke to the intention behind the event’s programme. That she wanted to create a space that felt welcoming, celebratory, and inclusive. “I wanted it to have warmth, colour, good kai, and a chance to honour those who have supported Ako Aotearoa. I believe we achieved that.” From the powerful kapa haka by Te Akatoki to the energy of a full house and the fun of the photo frame, Jennifer felt that every detail contributed to a memorable experience. “I’m profoundly grateful to everyone who contributed. I’m proud of what we accomplished together, and excited for what’s ahead.”
Ako Aotearoa would like to thank all those who attended and contributed to the Regional Forums this year. The team has valued the new connections made throughout the Central, Northern, and Southern communities and looks forward to continuing to work with the sector for the remainder of 2025.
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Access presentation slides from the Southern Regional Forum
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