Opening day of the conference featured an experienced line up of panellists to lead the discussion around AI. We were fortunate to have Heidi Renata, Emily Broadmore, Ta’i Richards and Fesaitu Solomone. Each panellist brought a unique perspective to the discussion.
Heidi Renata
Founder and Chief Energy Officer at INNOV8HQ, Heidi Renata is a self-described Curious Wahinepreneur based in Ōtepoti | Dunedin. INNOV8HQ, one of the world’s first indigenousled innovation hubs, has evolved into a global consultancy focused on Indigenous leadership, entrepreneurship, and future capability.
With over 13 years in the tech sector—including helping launch Aotearoa’s first text message at Vodafone NZ—Heidi combines digital expertise with cultural grounding. Her mission: to empower Māori and rural communities, especially rangatahi, to lead with purpose.
Heidi sees great potential in AI for personalising learning and enhancing accessibility, while also warning of its risks— particularly for communities already on the margins. “AI isn’t good or bad,” she said, “it’s a tool. The question is: are we ready to lead it with wisdom?”
That’s where Ancestral Intelligence comes in—a term coined by Teina Boasa-Dean. It reminds us that knowledge systems began with our tūpuna. “AI is clever,” Heidi says, “but Ancestral Intelligence is wise. Together, they can create tech that serves people, not just markets.”
Emily Broadmore
Director of communications consultancy Heft, Emily Broadmore transitioned from political advisor and press secretary to co-founding Heft in 2020. She also runs creative social enterprises and founded Folly Literary Journal and The Wellington Writers’ Studio.
Emily reframed AI as a creative partner, not just a technical one. She urged leaders to model AI use, creating a culture where others feel safe to explore. “Leadership matters,” she said. “AI adoption starts at the top. Use it and give others the freedom to experiment.”
Her call to action: embrace AI with a curious mindset—don’t wait for permission.
Fesaitu Solomone
Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Pacific Languages, Fesaitu Solomone (Rotuman) leads efforts to revitalise endangered Pacific languages. The Centre offers free language courses, cultural competency training, translation services, and advocacy work.
Fesaitu spoke on the AI of Ancestral Intelligence, where individuals must take responsibility for language and cultural preservation. “Without language, there is no culture. Machines can’t feel, but we can. Our heads are where language lives—we are the processing units.”
Her message: “We are the knowledge holders. Our job is to protect and strengthen our languages and traditions. That is Ancestral Intelligence.”
Ta’i Richards
General Manager of CIDANZ (Cook Islands Development Agency New Zealand), Ta’i Richards is a fluent reo Māori Kuki Airani speaker and a champion of language and cultural revitalisation. Under his leadership, CIDANZ has embraced AI as a practical and cultural tool.
The agency’s AI policy focuses on three pillars:
- Boosting productivity, with a reported 50% increase using AI for reports, policies, and analysis.
- Amplifying cultural knowledge, exploring AI for language learning.
- Honouring tīpuna and empowering rangatahi, integrating AI into legacy and future-facing initiatives.
Conclusion
Together, the panellists shared insights that bridged technology and tradition. Their message—AI has promise, but must be guided by cultural intelligence, ethical leadership, and a deep commitment to community values.