In the vast and bustling world we live in, there are moments when I feel like a ghost, drifting through the background while others take center stage. It can be a disorienting sensation—feeling invisible despite having dreams and goals that I believe are worth sharing. I used to think that pursuing my passions would naturally elevate my visibility, but the reality has been far more complex.
As I have stepped into the spotlight, driven by a deep-seated desire to make a difference in this world, I found myself wrestling with the very visibility. It’s a curious paradox: striving to be seen often feels like I'm trying too hard. The process of applying for funding, opportunities, recognition, showcasing my work, marketing Wahanui Productions, Confident Me, Tangihanga, Maia Dreams Charitable Trust and my different initiatives and ventures can sometimes feel like a relentless quest for validation. But I'm not seeking validation I just want to be acknowledged for what I do. I've learnt that that acknowledgement allows me more opportunities to serve my purpose.
And because of that I constantly grapple with the balance between promoting what we do and promoting who I am and what I do.
Many years ago it felt like you had to make a gigantic contribution to be acknowledged, but everyone has their own journey and starting point. That starting point can be as simple as planting a seed, and with time, that seed begins to blossom and grow.
I firmly believe in deserving recognition for the work I do, and the work my team do. However this is not only for the impact we create but also for the influence, pursuit, hard work that we bring to the ventures and businesses I oversee. However, I remind myself that seeking visibility isn’t about placing myself above others—it’s about enhancing the overall impact we can achieve.
Maintaining humility while pushing for visibility has been my top priority. It feels like a tightrope walk between showcasing the value of our projects and sharing my personal journey. This balance is crucial because promoting what we do helps attract support and funding, while promoting who I am fosters a deeper connection with those who resonate with my story.
One of the driving forces behind my work is a desire to help others navigate their struggles with more ease than I did. If I can make someone’s journey a little smoother, I feel like I’ve fulfilled my purpose. This perspective helps me push through the discomfort of self-promotion and reminds me that visibility isn’t a vanity project; it’s a means to connect with and support others.
In the end, I’ve learned that seeking visibility and recognition isn’t about self-aggrandizement. It’s about creating a space where our voices and efforts can resonate. If I can help someone find their own path or ease their struggles, then every challenge and every application for funding becomes worth it.
Embracing visibility has been a tricky journey, but it’s also a testament to the commitment to making a meaningful impact. It’s about showing up, even when it feels awkward, and using that presence to serve a greater purpose.
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