Elle Archer honoured at 2024 New Zealand Hi-Tech Awards

Elle Archer has been recognised for her contributions to Aotearoa's digital and technology sectors, being named the Inspiring Individual in the 2024 New Zealand Hi-Tech Awards. The accolade highlights the increasing influence and success of Māori professionals within the rapidly growing tech industry in New Zealand.

Katie Brown, Chief Executive of Te Hapori Matihiko and Te Ao Matihiko, expressed her joy over Archer's recognition. "We're thrilled that the visionary leadership Elle brings to the sector has been recognised and shows the ever-increasing contribution Māori are making to digital and tech," she said. "She's setting the standard and inspiring the next generation of young Māori digital and technology professionals."

Archer, who has affiliations with Ngāti Tamaterā, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Porou, Ngāpuhi, and Ngāi Tūhoe, currently serves as the Executive Chair of Te Ao Matihiko. With extensive experience in business, governance, and technology, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the digital landscape of Aotearoa. Upon receiving the award, Archer commented, "This recognition is not just for me, but for the many doing the mahi and making a difference. I hope this award shows to all Māori tech practitioners that the unique perspective they bring is invaluable in shaping Aotearoa New Zealand's tech landscape."

Archer emphasised the importance of diversity in driving innovation and creativity within the technology sector. "My hope is that this recognition will inspire more Māori to enter and excel in technology fields," she stated. "What really matters for me is that we are working together to ensure technology is accessible to all. Digital equity is all about harnessing the power of technology to improve lives, and that means all communities must have equal access."

Despite the technology sector's significant contribution of NZD $20 billion to New Zealand's GDP in 2022 and its employment of 118,000 individuals, Māori representation remains low, with only 4.8% of the workforce being Māori. Furthermore, only a third of this percentage are wahine Māori, indicating a need for greater gender balance within the community. Brown remarked, "We need to build on this, which is why we run the annual Matihiko Awards. They're an important way to celebrate success and inspire Māori participation in the digital and tech industry."

The Matihiko Awards celebrate achievements across 11 categories, including Living Icon, Emergent Icon, Change Maker, Kaupapa, Whiua ki te Ao, Kaitiaki o te Taiao, Public Sector, Kaiwhina, Corporate Change, Innovation, and Rangatiratanga. These categories reflect the diverse areas where Māori professionals are making significant strides. The 2024 Matihiko Awards are scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 22nd, 2024, at the Due Drop Event Centre in Manukau, Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland).

Te Hapori Matihiko and Te Matarau, the organisations under Te Ao Matihiko's umbrella, play crucial roles in fostering Māori involvement in the tech sector. Te Hapori Matihiko focuses on community engagement, events, and pathways into technology, while Te Matarau leads in policy, research, and advocacy efforts. Together, they aim to amplify Māori voices in the digital realm and ensure equitable access to technology for all communities.