Launch of AUT Social Transformation Research Institute

Our institute was formally launched in November 2025 with a panel discussion on just what social transformation is needed in Aotearoa. We were pleased to welcome our esteemed speakers David Letele (The BBM Programme) and Helen Robinson (Auckland City Mission – Te Tāpui Atawhai).

After warm welcomes from AUT’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Damon Salesa, and AUT’s Te Ipukarea Institute’s Dr Toiroa Williams and director Katherine Ravenswood, Dave Letele and Helen Robinson talked about the realities of the communities they serve and of the challenges when working in the not-for-profit sector. Some hard home truths, alongside a decent dose of humour, were served to our audience.

In an election year, we are all challenged with the bald truth that poverty, homelessness and struggling communities are something that we, especially those of us with more resources, have let happen. We all need to speak up and make sure that we all have a part in ensuring our communities have what they need to thrive.

Thank you to all who attended our launch, and of course, especially to our speakers. What a fabulous way to begin our institute.