Professor Graham Smith, a prominent Māori educationalist, has been at the forefront of Māori initiatives in the education field and beyond. His recent academic work has centered on developing theoretically informed transformative strategies related to intervening in Māori cultural, political, social, educational and economic crises. Professor Smith has made significant contributions to the political, social, economic and cultural advancement of indigenous Māori communities. He has also worked extensively with other indigenous peoples across the world, including Canada, Hawaii, USA mainland, Taiwan, Chile, Australia and the Pacific nations. He was the CEO/ Vice Chancellor of Te Whare Wānanga O Awanuiārangi: Indigenous-University for 8 years, ending his position as CEO in 2015. He is the Principal Investigator of one of NPM's significant research programmesTe Pae Tawhiti: Māori Economic Development.