Manawaka Ao is a creative community space that brings together Māori, Pasifika and people of the global majority creatives to offer intergenerational making practices in community which also intentionally explores our responsibilities to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Our space is inspired by Indigenous, Black and woman of colour who inspire us to build relationships with each other rooted in love and care for community. Our tag line rehearsing freedoms is inspired by abolitionist and scholar Ruth Wilson-Gilmore. Manawaka Ao was founded by Ara Alam-Simmons who is a second generation British Bangladeshi, New Zealander. She is a researcher/practitioner, writer, and educator whose practice is deeply rooted in grassroots community, liberatory art practices and social justice.

Instagram: @manawaka_ao