The question of how to get the findings and significance of Māori research across via the media was at the core of a two-day “Media Savvy” workshop attended by Dr Amohia Boulton and Dr Tanya Allport from Whakauae Research. Run by the Science Media Centre through Nga Pae O Māramatanga, and attended by a rōpū of Māori researchers from a range of diverse areas, the workshop focused on how Māori researchers can best communicate what are often complex messages to the media, with the aim of contributing key messages on issues that affect Māori lives.
The workshop taught practical skills around preparing timely responses and commentary on Māori research, interviewing skills, the pitfalls of engaging with media, and how to make research findings relevant not just to policy and decision-makers, but to people's everyday lives. A visit to the TVNZ studios in Auckland provided an ‘insider view' from Māori reporters and producers from shows such as Te Karere, and reiterated the importance of getting Māori stories into the media.
The workshop culminated in a ‘pitching session' of research findings to a panel of established Māori journalists, including Yvonne Tahana (TVNZ), Atakohu Middleton (AUT) and Arana Taumata (Māori TV). For Whakauae, the learnings from “Media Savvy” are a welcome addition to the research ‘kete', as part of ensuring that our research is part of the public spotlight, debate and discussion on important Māori health matters.
