Efeso Collins visits Macleans College
Posted on March 15, 2023
Efeso Collins, ex Auckland Councillor and 2022 Auckland mayoral candidate spent time with Macleans College students last week.
Efeso spoke to a group of Year 13 Media Studies students who are studying the representation of the police in New Zealand media. He made headlines in 2021 when he tweeted his objection to TV show Police Ten 7, calling it “low level chewing gum TV that feeds on racial stereotypes”. The tweet instigated a burst of positive and negative reactions, including a bomb threat against him and his family. Since the furore over the tweet an independent review recommending changes was conducted, but ultimately the refreshed show was cancelled early this year.
Efeso’s account of the impact of media representation on different communities was eye opening for the students who are challenged to think critically about the media from different perspectives. He also shared stories from his political career and the opportunities and challenges of working with the media. This was enlightening for the students with aspirations to work in communications and journalism.
A group of Maori and Pasifika student leaders at the school were also able to meet with Efeso. His talanoa included his unsuccessful campaign for Mayor of Aukilani and some of the prejudice and racism he encountered in some Auckland communities. He reflected on the challenges of being in the public eye and the values that he stands for which link to his strong fa’asamoa values. His insights made this a very memorable experience for the students.
As well as his experience in politics, Efeso has also worked in various roles in education including at the University of Auckland and the Ministry of Education.
Fa’afetai tele lava Efeso.
