Episode. 1: No One's Coming To Save You with Saara Tawha

From Paper Rounds to Business Accelerators: The Inspiring Journey of Saara Tawha

Saara Tawha's journey from her humble beginnings in a small paper round to running her own business accelerator is nothing short of inspiring.

In this podcast episode of Roots to Rise, Saara shared her fascinating growth journey, detailing the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and the determination that drove her to success.

Early Beginnings: The Paper Round Days

Saara's first job was taking over the paper round from her older brother in Ōhaupō. At a young age, she realized the value of hard work and entrepreneurship. Envious of a friend who earned more for a similar job, Saara's entrepreneurial spirit began to take shape.

Challenges and Transformations

Despite facing financial struggles and working low-wage jobs, Saara never gave up on her dreams. She navigated through different careers, from checkout chick at Pack and Save to attempting hairdressing, always striving for something better. Becoming a young mother added another layer of complexity to her journey, but it only fuelled her determination to succeed.

Education and Career Growth

Saara's decision to pursue higher education, starting with a bridging course at WinTech, was a pivotal moment. She delved into business studies, eventually landing roles at Fonterra and the Business Development Centre. Her experience at Fonterra, where she implemented lean manufacturing principles, paved the way for her current work and passion for Maori entrepreneurship.

Making a Difference: Maori Acceleration and Business Initiatives

Currently, Saara focuses on fostering Maori participation in the startup ecosystem through her company, Ramaroa Limited. She co-founded the Tupu business accelerator, aiming to empower indigenous entrepreneurs and create impactful changes within the community. Her work exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurship and self-determination.

Words of Wisdom and Call to Action

Saara's journey is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the willingness to seek help and opportunities. Her advice to individuals stuck in unfulfilling jobs is to utilise every resource at their disposal, lean into their talents, and not wait for external saviours. Asking for help, taking initiative, and demonstrating worthiness are key steps towards personal and professional growth.In conclusion, Saara's Tawha's story exemplifies the power of perseverance, education, and community support in achieving one's dreams. From a simple paper round to empowering Maori entrepreneurs, her journey is a beacon of inspiration for individuals looking to create positive change in their lives and communities.

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🔗 Links to Saara's mahi: http://www.tupu.org.nz/