Chesser Cowan

2.7.22

Kia Ora!

Polynesian Heritage: Maori & Samoan

Education level : Bachelor’s Degree in Intercultural Peace building

Family: Husband to wife, Lasi, for nearly 4 years!

Favorite Polynesian Food: Palusami, Lu Hoosi, Kalo, Boil Up, Fry Bread


One story I would share is from one of my haka mentors. Knowing that I would be leaving home (Aotearoa) for a while (2017-present), my mind was turned towards the future about how I could maintain and represent myself, my whānau (family) and Iwi (tribe) to the best of my ability.


He always taught me when representing our iwi (tribe), we must always 1: do it well 2: do it right and the rest shall follow. We have two precious teachers. Our eyes and our ears. Coupled with the feelings and passion of our heart, we shall never deviate from the path of success. Because of what I learned that day, I’d always find ways to incorporate te ao māori in my daily life. Whether it be karakia (prayer), conversations, waiata (music), performing , stories, genealogy, compositions and meditation; I’d find a way. Later on in life I realized that it’s now become a habit and second nature that I do without second thoughts.


One of my favorite whakataukī (proverbs) that I recite and incorporate in my life goes as follows: “ Ko te Amorangi ki mua, ko te hāpai ō ki muri. Te tūturutanga mahi pono, o te Māori mana motuhake.” Put simply in English, “let god be your spearhead and everything else shall follow, this is true Māoridom in action.”

My advice to anyone seeking out their cultural heritage or wanting to connect to their roots, start off by thinking of small ways where you incorporate it into your life. Lean on the minds of people you respect and look up to for support and get right into it! It’s never too late or too far gone. Karawhiua!!


“Ko i kaheko I te tuna” - Don’t let the eel slip through your fingers.