معرفی
Jani Wilson (Ngāti Awa, Ngā Puhi, Ngā iwi o MĀtaatua) is an Associate Professor at the University of Canterbury's Aotahi School of Māori and Indigenous Studies. Originally from Pāroa near Whakatāne, she holds a PhD in Film, TV & Media Studies from the University of Auckland and has held academic positions at Massey University, Auckland University of Technology, and the University of Auckland before joining Canterbury in August 2023.
Her educational background includes:
- PhD (Film TV & Media Studies), University of Auckland (2009-2012)
- MA (Hons, Film TV & Media Studies), University of Auckland (2004-2006)
- BA (Film TV & Media/Māori Studies), University of Auckland (2000-2002)
- Diploma (Performing Arts) from Excel School of Performing Arts (1995-1996)
Wilson's research centers on Indigenous screens, methodologies, and the evolution of screened kapa haka. She examines how screen production impacts haka performance through her Marsden-funded project 'Kia Rite!'. Her work emphasizes the relationship between theory and creative practice (mahi-toi), focusing on how Māori knowledge systems inform contemporary media production. She has published extensively on Māori screen history, audience studies, and the transformative potential of kapa haka for wellbeing, particularly in her collaborative project 'Aroha Noa: Healing through kapa haka' with former prison inmates.
Her recent publications reveal a strong focus on Indigenous methodologies, cultural wellbeing through creative practice, and the intersection of traditional performance with contemporary media. The articles show her commitment to documenting and analyzing Māori screen representation while developing frameworks for Indigenous research that honor cultural protocols and knowledge systems.
Professional recognition includes:
- Certified Teaching Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (London)
- Member of the Royal Society of New Zealand
- Member of Ngā Pae o te MĀramatanga
- NAIS Writing Fellowship Mentor (2021-2022)
Wilson actively mentors emerging Māori/Pasifika screen producers and serves as a cultural advisor for new screen productions through Te Rautaki. She has supervised numerous graduate students working on projects ranging from Māori futurism to language revitalization. Her current research includes leading the 'Toiora, Hauora' project developing Māori arts-based pedagogy for whānau wellbeing and serving as pou manawa Māori on the 'Indigenising movement' project building technology for cultural vitality among rangatahi.
She maintains strong connections with creative communities, serving as a reviewer for journals like MAI Journal and AlterNative, and providing cultural advice for screen productions. Her work bridges academic scholarship with practical applications in media production, education, and community wellbeing initiatives.
