Ria (Maria) Sidwell | Kōhatu Mauri Limited
Ria Sidwell (Ngā Puhi, Ngāti Wai, Ngāti Ruanui)
Founder of ĀWH I Connection I Support I Health
Joined TKW Membership on: 21 July 2025
I am a wāhine, tamahine, teina, māmā, whaea, kui, kare, music lover and creative soul!
He wāhine Māori ahau, I am passionate about my culture. My whakapapa not only gives me strength but also inspires me to think from a legacy perspective and consider the world we will leave behind. How am I contributing to a brighter future for our mokopuna today? I lead with aroha and intention, but it is my whānau and my hapori that support me on my journey.
My experience
I have a Bachelor of Arts in Māori Development and a Postgraduate Diploma in whānau Development.
I have worked for mana whenua and urban marae in Tamaki Makaurau, where I was raised. My background is in education and the social sector. I am community-minded and an active member in my hapori.
My mahi
My pakihi, which I co-founded with my business partner and friend, currently has a contract with the Department of Corrections.
We connect through Hōkai Tapuwae reports, giving our Māori whānau in the prison system a voice. Working with whānau and creating a safe space for them to kōrero is something I am passionate about. Our culture is the vehicle through which we connect with one another.
I also dabble in contemporary Māori art, mahi raranga, and jewellery.
Connect with me
Website: Kōhatu Mauri
LinkedIn: Ria Sidwell
Connect with other wāhine: