Shae Parsons

In the ever-evolving world of technology and innovation, Shae Parsons of Ngāti Porou descent shines as an inspiring example of how culture and heritage can illuminate the path to groundbreaking achievements. As a proud Māori wahine with a masters in computer science, excelling in the AI technology space, and even the glamorous realm of modelling, Shae embodies resilience, ingenuity, and a deep connection to her roots. Her journey is not just about personal success—it's a tribute to the generations before her and an inspiring call to action for those who follow. 

Through her work, Shae demonstrates the powerful intersection of identity and innovation, proving that cultural heritage is not a limitation but a superpower. In this interview, she shares her insights, challenges, and aspirations, offering readers a glimpse into the world of a trailblazer who is not only breaking barriers but also building bridges for future Māori generations. Get ready to be inspired by her determination, her thoughtful perspective, and her passion for empowering indigenous communities globally.

As a Māori wahine in computer science and AI technology including modelling, you've broken through many barriers. How has your cultural heritage shaped your journey in these fields?

As Māori, we’re navigators. I think it’s in our lifeblood to explore uncharted waters and I am so lucky to do the same. It’s weird to think of myself as breaking barriers, part of me agrees but part of me thinks it is because I stand on the shoulders of giants. Every door I have walked through, my ancestors built the path for me to get there. I credit a lot of my development in the technology and even pageantry fields to the unique perspective my heritage gives me. I don’t just want to be in the technology space to make money or be successful; I also recognise that Māori have missed out on many opportunities to create better lives for themselves and know AI and this next wave of technology could help them do this.

What advice do you have for other Wahine Māori looking into breaking into these industries? 

Your identity is a skill within itself and should be recognised as such. As diversity programs in major industries dissolve, it means that you need to critically look at the unique perspectives you bring and frame them as tangible skills, because they are. Te Ao Māori brings unique perspectives, not just as a cultural marker but also in the way you approach work. An example that comes to my mind is the relational nature of Māori culture – interpersonal skills will get you very far in the workplace/business world so champion this as a skill you have because of who you are. I could think of many more that translate into very desirable skills.

Can you share a defining moment in your career that made you realise the impact of your work on the Māori community and beyond?

Honestly, there are a few here but I’ll choose two because I think internal and external recognition is important. The first was when I was talking to my Aunty. For context, my Aunty has two daughters who are 18 and almost 16, I consider them my little sisters. She was telling me how proud she was of me, not just for myself but also for the example she thought I was setting to girls my cousins’ age. Initially, this embarrassed me because I do not consider myself a role model, much less a good one 😂. However, I realise that maybe through my pursuing my passions, I should think about paving the way more and therefore, realised the impact I was already having.

Secondly, I think being on stage at an event like the AI Forum was a bit of a ‘pinch me’ moment. I was on stage with three people far more qualified and successful than me, however, my opinion was valued just as much! That was crazy and testament to the space I do have in this world.

What inspired you to pursue your career, and how do you balance work and life? 

Part of me wants to say something inspiring led me to here, but I genuinely think it was my ADHD. On a serious note, getting diagnosed with ADHD helped me understand that to thrive professionally, I needed a dynamic career to keep me interested. Therefore, getting into AI/tech (with a little bit of pageantry on the side) keeps me busy, always learning and on my toes. While this may sound like a hell of ambiguity to some, it works for me!

Balancing work and life are a constant process I feel. I do think it’s crucial to keep your holistic health in check. Exercising and taking time to journal may seem super cliché but it really does work. Scheduling in time where I am forced to not think about work helps keep me stable and energised as I feel like I am always having ‘me’ time.

Representation is crucial. How do you see your role in increasing Māori visibility in technology and the fashion/modelling industry?

Indeed, it is but for some reason, I have a hard time accepting that by default, I am championing it. I didn’t pursue these with that in mind yet now, I realise it’s my responsibility to make sure that future generations have the access to do what they want. And if I can help make that happen, then I should. Many people inspired me through representation, so it’s paying it forward. One thing I really want to do is work with Māori brands on my pageantry and entrepreneurial journey to normalise a culturally informed and collaborative approach. I almost want it to become a norm for future Māori to see these paths as tried and true methods to success.

Could you tell us about a project you're particularly proud of that has had a positive impact on indigenous communities?

A moment of pride is learning my mother tongue. I was unfortunate in the fact I didn’t speak it growing up, but now that I am learning it has made me more connected to myself and proud of the parts that make me, me. I used to hide the fact I was learning Te Reo, perhaps because a part of me was ashamed that I didn’t already know it? But now, I have become much more comfortable with it. I recognise the opportunity I have to share my learning journey and show young Māori there’s a place for them in the tech/pageantry world.

What challenges have you faced as a Māori woman in tech, and how have you overcome them?

While I would say I’ve faced more ups than downs, there have been some challenges. I think more than anything, there has been more explaining to people who have a genuine curiosity about Te Ao Māori thankfully; I mean that’s extra labour within itself but people mean well and I don’t mind helping people extend their knowledge. I would hazard a guess that perhaps my detractors are more silent in nature as there hasn’t been any direct repercussions due to my heritage that I know of. However, I am not naïve in the sense that I would assume everyone’s on the same waka that I am.  

Who are your role models, and how have they influenced your career and personal growth?

One of my biggest role models is Georgina Beyer. To be Māori and takatāpui in parliament would be revolutionary now, let alone in the 1990s and 2000s. To me, she encapsulates everything about being a wāhine Māori; to be eloquent, steadfast and championing what’s right. She was instrumental in ensuring New Zealand is the accepting place it is today and she was controversial for all the right reasons. I see a lot of her in some of parliament today; that makes me confident. I look up to so many people professionally and personally, but if I had to choose one role model, it’s always her.

While Georgina’s career looks markedly different to my own, there are many ways I want to make sure I can honour her through being unapologetically true to my values. I think there’s a power in novelty; while oftentimes I feel solitary in my pursuits, I know that that means there’s a very clear path for me and a space for me to capitalise on my uniqueness.

What advice would you give to young Māori women who aspire to follow in your footsteps in technology or modelling?

Sit down with yourself and really find your ikigai – the thing you love, are good at, the world needs and something you can make a living off. Once you’ve found something that aligns with that – go for it. Often, it’s not what you’re doing, but what you’re doing it for that changes everything. Suddenly, sacrifice seems easier when there’s an end goal that leads to prosperity and fulfilment.

What are your top 3 skincare or beauty products that you can’t live without? 

Sunscreen, moisturiser and lip balm. I could live without makeup, I could not live with dry and sun damaged skin!

What are your future aspirations, and how do you envision contributing to the growth and empowerment of Māori and indigenous communities globally?

Huge question! I think the primary goal now is to establish a strong personal brand in the AI industry, potentially start something and then create the financial freedom I need. After that, I want to focus on impact work – one thing that’s always intrigued me is the intersection of psychology/psychiatry and technology. I want to pursue more efficient and transformative ways to understand mental illness so we can get people the help they need. It goes without saying that this would benefit Māori as the documented effects of poor mental health are abundant, especially in indigenous communities.

How does Girl Native resonate with you? and what is your favourite thing about the brand?

Blue sky thinking; I see Girl Native heralding a movement towards rongoā Māori similar to Korean beauty. I think the most special thing to me, apart from your very well-recommended products, is you, Rawinia. You inspire me to chase my dreams and give me an understanding of how to bring your best self into your business. Your unwavering determination to break barriers is so special, something I think will inspire generations to come. I cannot wait to see you stocked in Sephora, in beauty review videos, selling out and so much more.

Any last words? 

If you’re reading this and you’re scared to try something, just try it. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how many support you on the way.