This winter, the TUI team had the privilege of collaborating with a talented group of students who brought bold creativity and unique perspectives to the creation of a significant piece: the animated TUI video. Led by Tomairangi Morgan (Ngāti Uenukukōpako, Te Roro o Te Rangi), this project came to life through the combined efforts of a diverse team of Bachelor of Design students from AUT - Hakopa Ririnui (Ngāi te Rangi, Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāti Pūkenga), Sala Deng, Jessica Ryou, and Levena Hou. Each student drew on their cultural backgrounds and design disciplines to form a cohesive, professional team, translating the layered story of the tūī bird and the TUI research methodology into a visually engaging, deeply meaningful video.
In this collaboration, students brought their own creative vision to the TUI narrative, ensuring the video not only communicates complex research principles but resonates with viewers in an impactful and authentic way. The project, made possible with the guidance of Cassie Khoo and Professor Stephen Reay from Good Health Design at AUT’s School of Art and Design, gave each student the opportunity to explore and strengthen their skills in animation, narrative development, and visual storytelling.
Beyond technical skills, this experience also fostered a deeper sense of identity for each team member. As they contributed their ideas, aesthetics, and cultural values to the TUI video, they found new ways to express their creative identities and engage with themes that reflect the aims of translation, uptake and impact. This way of working - a collective approach to blending creative and cultural narratives - empowered each student to contribute in ways that honour both their backgrounds and the integrity of the TUI research kaupapa.
