Kura Te Ua, a renowned choreographer and artistic director, offers profound insights into purpose, integrity, and the importance of people in the arts. Her journey is a testament to the power of Māori performing arts and the impact it can have on individuals and communities. Here's a deep dive into her wisdom and perspective.
Purpose and Integrity
Te Ua's life's work is centered around Māori performing arts, a vehicle that has shaped and freed her. She emphasizes the importance of knowing your purpose and serving a greater cause. This sense of purpose drives her to create spaces where Māori people can express themselves freely without seeking permission. Her dedication to this mission is unwavering, and she finds joy in the process of creation and the impact it has on others.
Energy Vampires and Positivity
One of Te Ua's key pieces of advice is to avoid energy vampires. She describes these individuals as those who drain energy and ideas, often seeking status rather than contributing positively. In contrast, she admires people who bring energy, ideas, laughter, generosity, and possibility to any room. This perspective highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals who inspire and motivate.
Hope and Resilience
In uncertain times, Te Ua finds solace in her work and the people she serves. She believes in the power of creation to make sense of the world and drive positive change. By focusing on what she can influence and continuing to build and imagine, she holds onto hope. This resilience is a cornerstone of her approach, allowing her to navigate challenges and keep moving forward.
Integrity and Substance
Integrity is a highly valued trait in Te Ua's eyes. She respects individuals who stand by their values, fulfill their commitments, and own their mistakes. She criticizes recognition without substance, emphasizing the importance of building something meaningful and ensuring its value endures beyond applause. This perspective challenges the notion of excellence being compromised for comfort.
Underrated Consistency
Te Ua also highlights the undervalued nature of consistent, meaningful work. She acknowledges the contributions of individuals who quietly serve, teach, create, and build, often holding the fabric of their communities together. Their dedication and service are invaluable, yet they often go unnoticed.
Learning and Growth
Reflecting on her journey, Te Ua acknowledges that life unfolds as it should, and setbacks can lead to growth. She has learned to embrace challenges as opportunities for redirection. Her advice to others is to focus on the work and the people, prioritizing their well-being over the project. This perspective is a constant learning process, as she continues to navigate the complexities of leadership and the arts.
Joy and Inspiration
The source of Te Ua's joy is multifaceted. Her son brings her immense happiness, and witnessing the growth and self-discovery of the young performers she works with is a privilege. She finds joy in the moments when individuals start to believe in themselves and push boundaries. These experiences remind her of the power of human potential and the impact of her work.
Personal Growth and Advice
Te Ua's personal growth has been shaped by the belief that life happens for you, not to you. She has learned to embrace challenges and find doors where she once saw walls. Her advice to others is to recognize the importance of surrounding themselves with capable individuals who bring diverse strengths. This perspective challenges the notion of self-reliance and emphasizes the power of collective effort.
In conclusion, Kura Te Ua's insights offer a profound understanding of the arts, leadership, and personal growth. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of Māori performing arts and the importance of integrity, positivity, and people in shaping a meaningful and impactful life.
