‍In a fast-evolving world, preserving and promoting indigenous knowledge systems is more critical than ever.  In Te Ao Māori, success is about collective growth and shared prosperity.  Toitū te Mātauranga (TTM Consultancy) demonstrate how weaving together cultural values and business excellence can create opportunities for all.

At the helm of TTM are four wāhine toa whose diverse professional backgrounds bring rich perspectives to their mahi: Rātangihia Steer (Kāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe, Waitaha, Ngāti Porou), Saarah Gul (Ngāti Kahungunu), Carla Jeffrey (Tūhoe), and Jewels Edwards (Te Rarawa, Ngāi te Rangi). Together, they've created a consultancy where Te Ao Māori is the driving force behind every decision.

TTM specialises in strategic planning, learning and development, and communications services through a distinctly Māori lens. Despite challenging times, they’ve achieved impressive growth while staying true to their values.

At the heart of TTM’s identity is the harakeke plant, a powerful symbol in Te Ao Māori. The rito represents the child, nurtured by the awhi rito, while the outer leaves stand tall as the tūpuna. This metaphor speaks to the core of TTM’s philosophy: caring for the present while honouring the past, ensuring the growth and well-being of future generations.

Building Collective Strength

TTM Consultancy is not just about delivering top-tier strategic services; it’s about uplifting Te Ao Māori and creating positive, lasting impacts on the communities they serve. With a workforce that is 100% Māori – 20% of which are rangatahi – TTM has fostered talent and provided employment opportunities. Through initiatives like their tuakana-teina mentoring program, they are nurturing the next generation of Māori leaders while supporting the growth of the Māori economy.

Their Socially Responsible Plan focuses on implementing sustainable practices, ensuring that their work aligns with long-term environmental goals. By subcontracting to other Māori businesses and contributing to strategic projects, TTM is helping to build capacity and support the growth of Māori enterprises across industries.

Their work in the Library and Information sector has upskilled workers and created job opportunities, while their tuakana-teina program provides mentorship to emerging talent. In addition, TTM helps organisations align with Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, ensuring that the work they do is grounded in cultural authenticity and respect.

‍The Future of TTM Consultancy

At TTM Consultancy, success is measured by the positive impact they have on their clients, communities, and the preservation of mātauranga Māori. They believe that true success means creating a brighter and more sustainable future for all, where Māori businesses and knowledge systems thrive.  Their approach demonstrates how strong cultural values and smart strategy can create sustainable growth and positive outcomes.

As TTM continues to grow and evolve under the leadership of these four wāhine toa, they're showing us all what's possible when we embrace both our cultural heritage and modern business practices. They're proving that you don't have to choose between being authentically Māori and being commercially successful - in fact, the two can strengthen each other.