Losing myself to find my leadership: why cultural integrity matters in business
By Wai – Arotahi Collective
By Wai – Arotahi Collective
When I first stepped into business, I believed success was about doing more, moving faster, and pushing harder.
I chased strategies that promised quick growth. I listened to the noise that said hustle was the only way forward. And for a while, it felt like I was doing all the "right" things.
But somewhere along the way, I started to lose myself.
I was following templates, ticking boxes, and measuring success by someone else’s version of it and my wairua (spirit) felt it. The further I drifted from who I was, the less fulfilled I became.
That was the moment I realised, it is not enough to build a business. I needed to build one that was true to me true to my whakapapa (ancestral roots), my kaupapa (values and purpose), and the legacy I want to leave for my whānau (family).
🌿 Cultural integrity is essential for sustainable leadership
When we enter business as Indigenous leaders, we often find ourselves walking between two worlds.
One world tells us to prioritise speed, profit, and competition. The other reminds us to prioritise connection, balance, and collective good.
For a long time, it felt like I had to choose between the two. But what I habe come to understand, through experience, and through completing my BSB40320 Certificate IV in Entrepreneurship and New Business — is that the real strength lies in building both.
✨ Strategy with soul
✨ Structure with spirit
✨ Business with wairua
✨ Structure with spirit
✨ Business with wairua
Leading a business with cultural integrity does not limit us — it anchors us. It gives us the clarity to create, the confidence to grow, and the resilience to move forward in ways that honour where we come from.
🌱 Rebuilding with purpose: the birth of Arotahi Collective
After reconnecting with my cultural values and realigning my vision, I knew I couldn’t continue building the old way.
I refocused everything around what mattered most:
- Arotahi (focus and clarity)
- Kaupapa (values and purpose)
- Wairua (spiritual grounding)
This journey led to the creation of Arotahi Collective — not just a business brand, but a movement that empowers Indigenous leaders and entrepreneurs to lead with authenticity, intention, and impact.
Through Arotahi Collective, I want to show that business success and cultural identity don’t have to be separate journeys. They are stronger together.
✨ For those walking the same path
If you are an aspiring leader or entrepreneur feeling caught between external expectations and your internal truth, know this:
You don’t have to choose between your culture and your success.
Your culture is your success.
Your leadership is strongest when it reflects your whole self.
Your culture is your success.
Your leadership is strongest when it reflects your whole self.
It is not about fitting in — it is about standing tall in who you are, and building from there.
🔎 What’s next
As I continue shaping Arotahi Collective, I have found myself leaning into something deeper, something I am not quite ready to announce just yet, but it is coming.
Quietly, behind the scenes, I am developing the next evolution of this kaupapa: a space for Indigenous entrepreneurs and leaders to explore what it means to grow a business and lead with cultural integrity, clarity, and confidence.
I am not rushing this. I am building it slowly and intentionally — the same way I want others to feel when they lead their own journeys.
If something in this kōrero resonates with you, stay close.
There is more to come, and when it’s ready, you’ll be the first to know.
Poipoia te kākano, kia puāwai.
Nurture the seed, and it will blossom.
Nurture the seed, and it will blossom.
#ArotahiCollective #LeadershipWithWairua #IndigenousBusiness #BusinessWithPurpose #CulturalLeadership
Kia Ora Koutou,
It’s been a while, and I’m excited to reconnect and share an update on my business journey.
I’ve learned that it’s okay to take a step back, reflect, and even change direction when needed. Growth—both personal and professional—is all about being open to new paths.
🌱 Business in Seasons: Navigating the Ups and Downs
Over time, I’ve noticed that business, like life, has its seasons—the good, the challenging, and those times when we feel overwhelmed or unmotivated. I’ve always been someone who jumps into things with enthusiasm, making plans and pushing forward. Perhaps it’s due to my background in a high-pressure corporate environment, but I’ve never been one to coast along.
📈 The Evolution of My Business
My business journey started in early 2022. I used my past experiences, online resources, and advice from experts to build a roadmap. Initially, I focused on Virtual Assistant (VA) and Online Business Manager (OBM) services. However, I quickly realised that these weren’t the right fit for me.
Key Strengths Discovered:
- 🔧 Improving business operations
- 🗣️ Effective communication
These skills have become the foundation of my consulting and coaching practice.
🔍 Finding My Path: Focusing on Strengths
The big shift came when I stopped trying to model my business after others and started focusing on what I do best. I identified my top strengths—communication, problem-solving, and efficiency—and combined them with my Māori cultural values.
This led me to where I am today, helping new and small family-owned businesses operate more effectively and efficiently through digital technology and culturally-rooted practices.
🙏 Reflecting on 2024: Growth and Gratitude
As I reflect on my journey up to August 2024, I’m grateful for all the challenges, setbacks, and successes that have shaped me. I feel more confident in who I am and in the direction my business is heading.
🎯 Looking Ahead: Building Credibility
In July, I was ready to launch an 8-part mini-series to help solopreneurs through online workshops. But life had other plans. I realised I needed to further build my credibility, so I decided to pause the series and enrol in a Certificate IV in New Business and Entrepreneurship.
This course aligns perfectly with my goal of supporting Māori, Pasifika, and Indigenous entrepreneurs through my consulting and coaching practice.
📚 Future Plans: Continuing Education
I plan to complete this qualification by the end of 2024. After that, I aim to pursue a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, which will allow me to formally train others in business operations. This will enhance my credibility as a coach and keep me up-to-date with industry standards.
⚖️ Balancing Life, Business, and Growth
While my business isn’t running at full capacity right now, I’m still active in the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) space, balancing family life, studying, and staying connected with community and business networks. My focus is on upskilling and shifting my business to a culturally-rooted practice that reflects Māori values within the realm of consulting and coaching. At the same time, I’m actively investing in developing other areas of my business to ensure it continues to grow and evolve.
🌟 Embracing the Journey
“When I feel stuck or unmotivated, I remind myself that this is just part of the growth process. I’m embracing these changes, knowing they’re preparing me for something greater.” – Ricki-Leigh (Wai)
Business is rarely straightforward, but I believe that my time to shine is just around the corner.
Ngā mihi nui,
Ricki-Leigh (Wai)
Māori Business Coach and Consultant
Māori Business Coach and Consultant
📬 If you’re on your own business journey or need guidance, I’d love to connect! follow me on social media to stay updated on my latest offerings and insights.
