Maxwell Te Huki

From 2020 to 2023 I had taught the entire Hip Hop school at Origin Studios which ranges from ages 5 to 21. The work I taught was from the NZAMD Hip Hop syllabus and I would also create my own choreography for both showcases and end of year productions. By learning the syllabus work, students are able to be examined by a NZAMD Examiner and aim for top marks. In 2021 my senior class achieved very high marks, 6 of 8 getting nominated to a scholarship weekend hosted by the NZAMD. Being a teacher for Origin has taught me many things, such as how to teach and work with children, how to communicate with people both older and younger than me in a professional manner, how to work with different types of people and how to stick to a schedule.

Being a labourer in the plumbing industry I've been taught basic plumbing and trade skills over the few months I had been there, but the main thing I learnt was how to give it my all and work as hard as I can. From digging holes and lifting heavy things to pulling apart cylinders and operating diggers and compactors, these jobs may sound easy to some people but a lot of effort and concentration is needed to do these jobs successfully. I got along and worked well with all my coworkers and was quick to pick things up. I listened and followed instructions well and always tried my best at any task I was given.

I worked at Ngati Kahungunu Ki Tamaki Nui A Rua for around 9 months, as a youth mentor for the Dannevirke community in New Zealand. I grew as an individual in so many ways through this job because of all the different obstacles and challenges that I was faced with. I worked with primary and high school students to help them both reach their own personal goals and stay on a positive path in life. I helped at big events held in our community such as Matariki and the Kapa Haka Regional competition. I ran free Hip-Hop dance programmes for those in the community that couldn't afford dance tuition, and I always supported my co-workers with any programmes or events that they were running as well. The Iwi organisation taught me many life skills that helped me mature in the best possible way and taught me to always support those you work with because that's what builds and grows an organisation.

In 2022 I worked as a Waiter at Dannevirkes, High St Bistro, one of the highest rated Restaurants in town. The two head chefs who were also father and son bought their amazing talents from Auckland and served it to the people of Dannevirke. They treated their restaurant like any high end restaurant and would give their all to making sure that the food, drinks and service was the absolute best. Given the expectation of the highest quality, I learnt how to work fast and well under pressure, how to greet and serve people in an appropriate and friendly manner, and how to take orders properly leaving no room for mistake. I was one of the best employees the High St Bistro had ever employed, resulting in me continuing to come in a cover for people and picking up extra shifts when the support was needed.