WelCom, September 2024
St Catherine’ College Kilbirnie, Wellington, welcomed its new principal Amélie Kelder in July. Addressing St Catherine’s College community at a pōwhiri in her honour, Amélie said the following.
My name is Amélie Kelder. It is with great honour and privilege that I assume the role of Tumuaki o te Kareti o Hāta o Kataraina, the Principal of St Catherine’s College.
Originally from Belgium, I have resided in Aotearoa, New Zealand, in Whanganui-a-tara for 15 years, and I proudly identify as tangata tiriti. I reside in Kilbirnie with my husband and our two wonderful daughters.
Education in Aotearoa, New Zealand, offers abundant opportunities for our rangatahi, and I am committed to ensuring that every tauira in our college has access to them. Every girl deserves to take pride in her heritage and aspirations. With aroha, whanaungatanga, respect, manaakitanga, awhinatanga,and rangatiratanga, I aim to lead our kura. Kindness and compassion are integral to forging a bright future.
I eagerly anticipate meeting you all – ākonga mā, whānau mā, kaiako mā. Upon assuming the role of Tumuaki, I intend to honour Catherine McAuley’s legacy by inviting you to share a cup of tea. Haere mai! Kōrero mai! One morning each week, my door will be open to anyone who wishes to engage in talanoa – no agenda, just conversation!
I extend my best wishes for a fruitful term and I am really looking forward to the opportunity to connect with you in Term 3!
Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā tātou katoa.
God bless you all.