Over the past year I have been very privileged to be apart of the Shared Histories Project, it has opened my eyes to an area I had never thought too much about. World War One has effected the lives of many, never did I think it would play a major part in my life- allowing me to travel to France and Belgium and meeting so many new people. I have learnt a lot about my culture and what they did during the war.

They were the trench diggers and road maintenance but never on the front line as their head officers never thought they were eligible because they once fought against the crown. Though, they later proved their point in Gallipoli, that they were strong, fierce soldiers. Not only did the Maori face a struggle to get respect on the battle field but also here back in New Zealand at the time, many Maori still didn't want to fight for the crown after they had had so much land stolen off of them, particularly Tainui-Waikato and Taranaki. These tribes swore never to fight again but local authorities made it compulsory that certain men had to enlist. But seen as though they refused it caused a ruckuss, not only between these tribes and the police/government but also with other tribes. Those men from Tainui and Taranaki that did want to fight were seen as traitors by there iwi.

Seen as though a lot of my family are from Taranaki and Tainui it's no wonder I couldn't find very many relatives that went to the war. I admire the many men that have risked their lives for our country, I believe it is fair to say that they are the true heroes.

This year I am Going to Waikato University. The first semester consists of me doing the Certificate in University Preparation which will allow me to complete my UE, then I will be studying French and Business.

Thank you Pascale, Glenda, Ruth and all the young ambassadors for making this trip unforgettable.