Quack was raised in Panmure with their mother and four siblings. Quack’s father resided up north and his appearances were scarce, typically reserved for funerals or confrontations with their mother. Quack, a twin and the youngest in their whānau struggled to understand the complexities of their parents' relationship. They navigated a childhood of displacement and a longing for connection to their Māori heritage. Their memories of childhood are painted in shades of “dark blue—a time tinted with chilliness despite scorching summers, encapsulated by a moldy room and a $2 shop blanket.” Their narrative reflects a profound understanding of the intersections between mental health, cultural identity, and activism. Quack's path to embracing their Māori heritage and identity as Takatāpui has become a foundation in their healing journey. Through their work, they aim to disrupt systems of oppression, empower rangatahi (youth), and safeguard mental health by intertwining kaitiakitanga (guardianship) of the whenua (land) with the well-being of the people. Need Support: findahelpline.com Transcribed Audio

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