A vision of decolonisation: Midwifery mentoring from the perspective of Māori mentors

Background: Mentoring is a valued form of professional and cultural support among midwives in Aotearoa (see glossary for te reo Māori translations). Mentoring occurs both informally and via formal programmes, including Māori mentoring initiatives with tauira, new graduate and rural midwives. International studies identify indigenous mentorship as a viable approach to supporting the retention and professional development of indigenous health workers. However, little research exists on the mentoring relationship from the perspective of Māori mentor midwives. Objective: To examine the mentoring relationship from the perspective of Māori mentor midwives. Method: This qualitative research used focus groups of Māori mentors, identified from the Find Your Mentor database, to explore their views of mentoring from a Māori perspective. A semi-structured topic guide used seven simple, open questions to stimulate discussion. Discussions were transcribed and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six steps of inductive thematic analysis. Findings: A vision of decolonisation lies at the heart of the mentoring relationship for Māori mentor midwives. Mentors see their role as supporting mentees to navigate the challenges of a Pākehā health system, and to strengthen their midwifery practice through Te Ao Māori. Mentors describe how they are guided by the principles of tika and pono, and work to create a culturally safe space based on mutuality and trust through sharing kai and incorporating their whānau and that of the mentee into the relationship. Being a Māori mentor also fills the kete of the mentors. Māori mentors are sustained through being part of a midwifery hapū and experience joy and hope in sharing ngā taonga tuku iho with the next generation. Conclusion: The decolonising approach to Māori midwifery mentoring has tangible benefits for Māori mentees and Māori midwifery. Māori mentoring activities evoke different experiences for Māori mentees, as evidenced by mentor behaviours that are unique within Te Ao Māori. Being part of Māori mentoring relationships also nurtures the resilience of the mentors.