Shona Ua-Marsh: The Heart of Te Puke’s Business and Community
In Te Puke, our local business landscape is shaped by people with vision and heart. Shona Ua-Marsh, the founder of Giggles Te Puke Early Learning Centre, is one such person. Her journey is a local success story built on resilience, purpose, and a deep connection to her whakapapa. As an entrepreneur and an advocate for Māori culture, Shona embodies the spirit of our community.
Shona’s life has been filled with challenges, but each one has only strengthened her resolve. From the loss of her parents to a personal battle with cancer, she has shown incredible manawaroa (strength). This inner fortitude, combined with the support of her whānau, has driven her to create a business that is a true reflection of her values.
Over twenty years ago, she started Giggles Te Puke with a clear vision: to create a loving and inclusive space for tamariki (children) to thrive. Following the Covid-19 pandemic, she made the bold decision to unite her three centers into one cohesive Whānau Centre. This was more than a business move; it was a philosophical one, based on the idea that families learn and grow together. This unique model has not only fostered a strong sense of community within her center but has also proven to be a successful and innovative business practice.
Shona’s entrepreneurial spirit also led her to create Whatu+Co, a business that designs educational resources based on kaupapa Māori. These resources, which include the innovative Te Whare o te Auahatanga tool, are not only a smart business venture but also serve a vital community purpose. They provide a way for people to engage with and celebrate Māori culture. Shona’s work demonstrates how a successful business can be a force for positive change, enriching our local community and ensuring that our rich cultural heritage is passed down to the next generation.
For more on Shona’s journey, read the full article at https://focusmagazine.co.nz/he-tangata-he-whanau-he-tikanga-the-journey-of-shona-ua-marsh/. To find more local businesses, events, and historical articles, visit www.kiwifruit.capital.
