Chanel Phillips is a name increasingly prominent in the field of water research and Māori knowledge systems. A University of Otago researcher, Dr. Phillips has made significant contributions to understanding the intricate relationship between Māori culture, water safety, and environmental sustainability. Her work, deeply rooted in *whakapapa*, *mātauranga*, and *tikanga*, offers invaluable insights for improving water safety practices and fostering a more holistic approach to water management. This article explores Dr. Phillips’ journey, her research, and the profound impact her work is having on both academic and community levels.
Meet Chanel Phillips:
Dr. Chanel Phillips' journey is a testament to the power of passion and dedication. Cited by 22 researchers and with over 10 publications to her name, she stands as a leading voice in integrating traditional Māori knowledge with contemporary scientific approaches to water safety. Her research isn't simply an academic pursuit; it's a deeply personal commitment to protecting and preserving the lifeblood of her culture – *wai* (water). This commitment is evident in the depth and sensitivity with which she approaches her research, consistently emphasizing the importance of collaboration with Māori communities and the respectful application of *mātauranga Māori*.
Her work consistently demonstrates a commitment to bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and Western scientific methodologies. This approach is not simply about adding Māori perspectives to existing frameworks; it's about creating new frameworks that acknowledge the inherent value and validity of *mātauranga Māori* as a primary source of knowledge. This transformative approach is reflected in her publications and the impact she has had on water safety initiatives across Aotearoa New Zealand.
The Whakapapa, Mātauranga, and Tikanga of Water:
Central to Dr. Phillips' research is the concept of *whakapapa*. This foundational Māori principle emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things, highlighting the deep kinship between people, the environment, and *wai*. Understanding *whakapapa* is crucial to appreciating the spiritual and cultural significance of water within Māori society. It’s not simply a resource; it's a vital ancestor, a source of life, and an integral part of Māori identity and history.
Her research delves into *mātauranga Māori*, the traditional Māori knowledge system. This encompasses centuries of accumulated knowledge about water, including its properties, its use, and its inherent spiritual significance. *Mātauranga Māori* offers a profound understanding of water cycles, water management, and the interconnectedness of aquatic ecosystems. Dr. Phillips masterfully integrates this knowledge with scientific methodologies, creating a richer and more nuanced understanding of water-related issues.
*Tikanga*, the customary practices and protocols of Māori, plays a crucial role in Dr. Phillips' research. Respecting *tikanga* is paramount in ensuring the ethical and culturally appropriate engagement with Māori communities. Her work emphasizes the importance of free, prior, and informed consent in research involving Māori knowledge and resources, ensuring that research is conducted in a manner that respects and upholds Māori sovereignty and cultural integrity.
The Connections with Wai that Can Keep Us Safer:
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