Behind the scenes
A Victoria University of Wellington student is working with a group of rangatahi (young people) to produce a short film that explores the experiences of young Māori mothers.
A Victoria University of Wellington student is working with a group of rangatahi (young people) to produce a short film that explores the experiences of young Māori mothers.
Catherine Pihema (Ngāpuhi, Ngati Uru me Ngāti Pakahi me Whānau Pani) is studying a Master of Science in Psychology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology.
The 23-year-old’s work is a branch of the Youth Wellbeing Study, led by Professor Marc Wilson from Victoria’s School of Psychology and supported by the Health Research Council of New Zealand. The four-year study has focused on non-suicidal self-injury and the factors that place young New Zealanders at the risk of self-injuring.
Catherine is collaborating with a group of 17 to 22 year olds at He Huarahi Tamariki, the Tawa-based secondary school for teen parents.
Catherine says the group is focused on creating a mental health resource around the experiences of being a young Māori mother. “The group were really keen to do something visual and that would have a strong reach online, so we’re producing a short film.”
The film will explore some of the challenges that the young mothers have faced, she says, and the strategies they’ve used—both successful and non-successful. The film will also explore how capable these young mothers are.
“This is the most incredible group of young women I’ve ever met. They’ve faced so many adversities and they just take them in their stride and want to give back. I have been so inspired by them. They are the backbone of this project and have really put in the hard yards for their fellow young mums,” says Catherine.
“We want the film to give hope to other young mothers, to show to them that they’re not alone and offer some coping skills. We also want the film to raise awareness about the societal stigma surrounding young mothers, and showcase how independent they are.”
Catherine says her research theory is grounded in kaupapa Māori principles and tikanga practices.
“This means that I try to meet the needs of the Māori I am working with and the greater Māori community in every research stage and decision. My topic was crafted after a number of hui (meetings) with young people where I asked what they thought the research need was and what we could do together to meet that need.
“The other methodology in my research is action research, where the point is to create something tangible.”
Catherine has been working with Victoria’s Film lecturers and subject librarians, and local filmmaking company Falkirk Films to finalise the script and begin production on the video.
“I’ve essentially had a crash-course in creating a film and everyone has stepped up to help. People have been so supportive and I really couldn’t have done this without the support of the community—especially my lab team and the staff at He Huarahi Tamarki.”
Professor Wilson says: "Catherine started this project committed to allowing the community to decide what they wanted, and it's been a challenging but incredible and productive experience for all involved. It's a testament to Catherine, the school and girls she's worked with, and all the people who have volunteered their time and expertise."
Catherine hopes to complete and share the film later this year. She is looking forward to completing her studies, registering with the New Zealand Psychologists Board and continuing work into Māori mental health.
Photo: Catherine and the film crew. From the back row (left to right): Nakita Kopua, Tineka Waiariki, Nikki Walker, Mary Turua, Samantha Tui Rose, Zara Smith, Catherine Pihema, Helena Maria Ransfield, Tahlia Harding, Michelle Cameron and Andy Ferguson (owner Falkirk Films).