George Makapatama

George Makapatama is someone who can truly say he was raised by a village. Born and raised by his grandparents in the village of Vaiea, Niue Island, George instinctively learnt to contribute as part of a collective.  He migrated to New Zealand in 1980 with his grandparents and sisters in search of education and new opportunities.    

George is passionate about education and holds degrees in Social Work, Public Policy, Business Administration and M¨¡ori Development. Today he is completing a doctorate to introduce the Niuean concept of Fekafekauaga - Servantship as the fourth archetype of leadership alongside, management, leadership and entrepreneurship through the University of Otago.  

Coming from a collective, it was natural for him to work in areas where he could serve his community and Aotearoa. He spent several years working for Child, Youth and Family, Ministry of Education and then the Community Empowerment Unit for Auckland Council. 

His current role at The Southern Initiative (TSI) is managing the Healthy Families South Auckland team.  “My grandparents left Niue, their home, their land to come to New Zealand to give me opportunities to serve and help people. They continue to inspire and challenge me daily to be a good servant for the people and communities I have the privilege of serving.”