We’re thrilled to welcome Basie Pikimaui to the Ara Rau team as our new Employment Mentor. A calm presence with a strategic mindset, Basie brings a fresh energy to our mission of connecting rangatahi with meaningful employment opportunities and pathways, and he’s already getting stuck in.

In these early days, Basie has been immersing himself in the systems, people, and networks that will shape his role. “A typical day for me at the moment is getting familiar with the platforms we use, making contact with networks that will support the work, and most importantly, meeting with the rangatahi we are assisting,” he says.

Basie joins us from Fruition Horticulture, where he was a tutor in the Hei Whanake programme. It’s clear this background has given him a deep appreciation for multiple pathways and perspectives. “Being a tutor taught me that there are many ways to achieve an outcome. Bringing that skillset into this role gives me a multi-dimensional lens that helps unlock meaningful outcomes.”

What attracted him to this mahi in the first place? Innovation. “Turning new ideas into positive outcomes is powerful,” he says. That mindset is a natural fit for Ara Rau, where we’re constantly evolving how we connect people and employers in ways that genuinely shift outcomes.

Looking ahead, Basie is especially keen to support the establishment of an industry advisory group and to build strong, collaborative relationships with local employers. When asked what impact he hopes to have in the first six months, his answer is clear: “Establish key networks with employers.” It’s about relationships, trust, and momentum.

Basie’s vision is also deeply grounded in people. Outside of work, it’s his whānau that keeps him energised and curious. “I love to see my whānau grow and change,” he shares. That same care and belief in people is clearly present in his professional life.

He carries a whakataukī that guides how he shows up in the workplace:
“Tūwhitia te hopo, mairangitia te angitū – Feel the fear and do it anyway.”
“It speaks about having the courage to overcome fear or the unknown,” Basie explains, “and it still shapes how I approach my work every day.”

When asked which leader he’d most like to have coffee with, his answer is Wayne Smith, the elite rugby coach known for building tactical, innovative teams. It’s a fitting choice for someone who is quietly assembling connections and strategies to create lasting impact.

And finally, he leaves us with a timely challenge:
“Iwi and hapū alliances: and how beneficial they can be. That’s something I think organisations like ours and our members could be thinking more about.”

We’re excited to have Basie on the team, and even more excited to see the impact he’ll have. If you haven’t met him yet, reach out and say hello.