Rawiri Manley: Medical Student

Ko Te Arawa rāua ko Tainui ngā waka
Ko Ngōngōtahā, ko Wharepūhunga rātou ko Pukeroa ngā maunga
Ko Utuhina, ko Pūniu rātou ko Mangapū ngā awa
Ko Te Koutu, ko Aotearoa, ko Rawhitiroa rātou ko Kaputuhi ngā marae
Ko Ngāti Whakaue, ko Raukawa ki Wharepūhunga, rātou ko Ngāti Maniapoto ngā iwi
Ko Ngāti Taeotu, ko Ngāti Takihiku, ko Ngāti Kaputuhi hoki ngā hapū

Embarking on a journey in the health sector was a decision deeply rooted in my personal experiences and cultural background. Growing up in a Māori community, I witnessed first-hand the disparities and unique health challenges we face.  However, in my first year at university I didn’t make it. I fell short. And then I actually left and worked a whole lot of casual jobs for a few years. But I realised that I still had this dream inside of me and I thought why not give it another go.  So, I did and fortunately I am now in my second year of medicine. 

My father experiencing a heart attack deeply affected me. Witnessing his struggle and the impact on our family solidified my desire to pursue medicine. I wanted to alleviate such hardships for others, especially within my community and to make those moments for whānau a bit easier.

My days are filled with rigorous study; they start early and are packed with lectures, practical labs, and endless hours of revision. The pathway is far from glamorous, but the potential to bring change makes every challenge worth it.

My journey is about embracing my Māori heritage and ensuring it’s represented and respected within the medical field. The science of medicine may seem distant from our cultural practices, but I see it as an opportunity to integrate and advocate for culturally safe practices. By being present in these spaces I aim to be part of the future for Māori health professionals and ensure our voice is heard and valued.

I may not consider myself traditionally ‘smart’, but my determination and commitment to my goals and community keep me going. In this challenging but rewarding field, I am driven by the desire to make a difference, honouring my culture while advancing in medicine.

Rawiri’s Tips

• Give whatever you do 100%
• Life skills and emotional maturity is important and never give up

Originally written by Amokura Panoho for Careers with STEM - Indigenous and adapted with permission from Careers With STEM – Indigenous (Refraction Media)