Egan Bidois

Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāiterangi, Te Arawa

Egan Bidois advocates for users of mental health services and is passionate about helping those in their most vulnerable times. He believes it is a blessing to assist those experiencing times of mental distress.

Over the past 30 years, he has worked in various roles across the mental health sector. He has been a support worker, team leader, and service manager in the public and private sectors. Additionally, he has extensive experience in the mental health community as a cultural training developer, facilitator, and board member. Throughout his work, he holds on to the belief that "if you wish to be a leader - first, foremost, and always remain a servant."

Egan is the National Director of Lived Experience at Te Aka Whai Ora, the Māori Health Authority. In this role, he utilises his skills in public policy, mental health, healthcare, policy analysis, and programme development to ensure that those who drive the design and delivery of health services in Aotearoa better meet the needs of Māori.

His passion for his mahi comes from his dedication to Tikanga, ensuring that things are done correctly, respectfully, and honestly. He approaches the concept and context of mental health from a Māori perspective rather than the more widespread hospital-centred understanding. He works to have this approach heard, listened to, and acted upon.

Links:

Out of My Mind podcast – Egan Bidois

The importance of Whakapapa

Perspectives on “Madness” from Leaders who own the label

He Rangatira Our Leaders

Ranei Wineera-Parai

Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Ngāpuhi

Ranei Wineera-Parai has helped increase the quality and accessibility of healthcare across New Zealand.

Dr Ruth Herd

Te Ātiawa ki Taranaki, Ngāti Mutunga

Kia mau ki te aka matua, te toi huarewa o ngā tūpuna

Hold fast to the wisdom of your ancestors

Ruahine Albert

Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Tūwharetoa and Tainui

Ruahine Albert is passionate about social justice and works in local, national, and international government and community services to improve the well-being of survivors of violence.

Ngaropi Cameron

Ngāti Mutunga, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairoa, Te Ātiawa

Ngaropi is a registered general and obstetric nurse, member of the New Zealand Association of Counsellors and an active iwi member.