Better Together: Kamani Suppiah
A few weeks before summit, we cast our net to find some extra talent willing to help us cover Wao Summit. We found this wonderful human. We wanted to share their generosity so asked them a few questions about their experience at Summit and why they wanted to be involved. Check out their experience of Wao Summit.
Tell us a little about yourself?
I’m a bit of of a nomad! Originally from the UK/Singapore but made NZ home in 2008. I started out my career making factual documentaries at NHNZ and fell into social enterprise and education a few years later, I currently live in the beautiful Banks Peninsula and am finishing my tenure teaching Maths and Science at Akaroa Area School. I am passionate about using visual communication and storytelling to support STEM education and currently looking for my next opportunity.
How do you feel about the impacts of Climate Change?
One of Kamani’s favourite images from Summit Week: Wao Summit Speaker, Trish Love
I have witnessed the impacts firsthand, having lived and worked in many coastal communities around the world. Flooding and infrastructure damage have been significant and I have seen the detrimental consequences but also the enduring spirit of human resilience as a result. The devastating impacts are tangible but opens up a wealth of opportunity to build community-led initiatives, like many seen during the WAO conference this year.
What inspired you to jump in the car and travel to Wao Summit?
It was an amazing opportunity to connect with like-minded people, be creative and learn more about possible solutions and community-led initiatives.
Did you know about Wao before you heard about Summit?
No! I had stumbled upon the instagram page and was intrigued.
What was your favourite session at Wao Summit?
I loved all of it! What a privilege it was learning from a diverse range of experts from different fields. The biophilic workshop was extraordinary; breaking down conventional approaches to architecture, constructing a space based on materials resonate rather than the conventional ones we use. Sam and Professor Norton were insightful, engaging and practical. The Q and A sessions were informative.
Has the Summit inspired you into action? If yes, please describe what you're intending to do.
Definitely. I have attended another climate change Wānanga at Ōnuku and have created group activities around systems thinking for students to utilise. I am currently weaving information from these talks into educational resources that can be utilised by students from Year 1 - 13 and the local community.
Has your understanding of systems-thinking and social issues increased due to the Summit?
One of Kamani’s favourite images from Summit Week: Wao Board Member, Claire Atkin Smith
It most definitely has! I found Monique’s approach to this absolutely fantastic. It made me realise the power of collaborative problem-solving and tangible steps that can be taken to make a difference.
What would you like to see more of at Next Year summit?
Nature walks and solutions in action would be great! There were plenty of discussions around possible next steps but a guided approach and solutions in action would be a fantastic addition to the Summit.