We are excited to announce our keynote speaker, the Honourable Munokoa Poto Williams, a distinguished Cook Islander of the Northern Group of te Kūki ‘Airani, including Manihiki, Rakahanga, Tongareva, and Palmerston.

 

Driven the strong influence and witness of early Cook Islands pioneers establishing life here in Aotearoa, Poto brings extensive experience in public service, governance, and community leadership, alongside a deep commitment to education and equity. A former Member of Parliament for Christchurch East, she served for a decade in Parliament and held several senior Cabinet portfolios, including Conservation, Disability Issues, Police, Building & Construction, and Community and Voluntary Sector.

 

Poto’s governance expertise is reflected in her role as Pro-Chancellor of the University of Canterbury, where she works closely with university leadership to provide strategic oversight and support student success. She is a strong advocate for inclusive education and is particularly focused on strengthening pathways and outcomes for Pacific learners.

 

Poto’s career began in the social services sector, including leadership as CEO of Western Refuge, where she developed a practical, people-focused approach to governance. Her own educational journey—returning to study later in life to complete a business diploma, MBA, and postgraduate statistics—underpins her belief in accessible, lifelong learning.

 

Grounded in community, our Pacific values,  and driven by purpose, Hon Poto Williams offers a powerful perspective on leadership, governance, and the role of education in shaping equitable futures.

 

We are excited to announce the Honourable Poto Williams as our 2026 APSTE Fono Keynote Speaker!