Ko Kheelan Jay-Tia Mai Thompson-Tonga tōku ingoa, aka ‘Kheejay’.

The name Tia-mai was gifted to me by my Aitutaki Nena, who was captivated by the

fragrance of the Tiare Taina flower, the national flower of the Cook Islands, from which the Tia-Mai scent is derived. Thompson acknowledges my roots in Hunty, Waikato, where my iwi of Ngāti Mahuta rest and Tonga is a shortened version of Arakitonga, which honours my ancestors from Ngātputoru (Mauke, Mitiaro, Atiu) in the beautiful Cook Islands.

My heritage also includes Ngāpuhi and Ngātiporou, connections through my ruwhiu lineages, which aren't captured in my name but are central to who I am.

I am the middle child in a blended family of seven tamariki and was raised by an extended village of Mamas, Papas, parents, cousins, grandparents, and others who helped shape me. Born and raised in the deep south, I grew up within a small yet vibrant Cook Islands community, with a strong Māori influence, which fostered my deep passion for identity and culture.

My recent academic journey has led me into Indigenous Studies, where I am currently

pursuing my Master’s at Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka. Indigenous studies explore’s the

discourse of power: how it has been used against Indigenous peoples in the past and how Indigenous peoples can reclaim and recognise the power they hold in the present. This field is about empowerment, of Māori and Tangata Moana, decision-making, and envisioning a future of possibilities. This passion for indigenous dreaming has driven me to take on the role of Programme and Event Lead for Mīharo, an organisation that has been a part of my life since I was a pēpī on stage performing. From volunteering to now leading, I feel truly at home in Mīharo. I hope

my service to Mīharo, our community in Oire Murihiku, and beyond will leave a lasting and impactful legacy.

Meitaki ranuinui and Ngā mihi maioha.