Matua Jacob De Berry leaves Dilworth for a new government role.
The list of roles Matua Jacob De Berry has tackled in his time at Dilworth is long!
Known as our Head of Learning Area, Te Reo and Tikanga Māori, he has a long list of contributions since 2007… Teacher of Te Reo Māori, Māori Performing Arts and Physical Education, Boarding House Assistant, House Manager, House Leader, 1st XV Coach (twice, 1a and 1b), Premier Touch Coach, Junior Touch Coach, leader of Dilworth’s incredible Kapa Haka (Junior and Senior); leader of Pōwhiri and tikanga for our major ceremonies, leader of staff cultural development and competency, leading whānau Māori engagement.
Consider also his enormous contribution to Dilworth Old Boys through 9 years’ service on the Dilworth Old Boys Association Council.
Jacob De Berry, Dilworth Old Boy (class of 2003), leaves Dilworth today after a long association with the school.
He is a man who has contributed so much to the heart of Dilworth, generously giving of his time and knowledge to benefit the lives of so many. One of his most significant gifts and legacies will be the development and understanding of Te Reo and Tikanga Māori at Dilworth.
His colleague, fellow Old Boy Matua Tommy King, explained his Jacob’s contribution this way:
“I can’t even begin to summarise his contribution and passion. He has made Te Reo and Tikanga accessible for more people, upholding the mana of the history and school”.
Asked about his time at Dilworth, Matua De Berry commented, "Dilworth has been my life for such a long time”. He went on to talk about how he had benefited from his time, a key highlight he said had been to “Learn to recognise other people’s skills and talents and to open opportunities for them to contribute and flourish.”
He also said he had learned to juggle multiple priorities—“not a natural thing for me!”
Reflecting on the highlights, Matua De Berry said that creating a natural environment to help many of his students had been incredibly rewarding and inspiring.
“Being able to support students having an identity crisis, particularly ākonga Māori, not knowing what being Māori looks like, and seeing them learn and relish the opportunity to learn about, or be who they are”.
He brings all his talents, skills, and much more to his exciting new role as Principal Advisor – Pou Ahurea for the Financial Markets Authority (FMA).
He commented, “I am about to enter a whole new world! I am excited to be a part of their journey, to help open the door to the Māori World and increase opportunities for our people to flourish in other ways”.
He admitted to a few nerves going into his first significant role connected to the corporate world, but said he likes to tackle new things:
“I’ve stayed here (at Dilworth) for so long because I have been given the chance to do and try so many roles, to consistently be challenged with new things, and new ways to contribute and serve the community”.
Matua De Berry said he will be forever grateful to his many mentors at Dilworth.
“I will miss the people, my best friends are here, my schoolmates, colleagues, my students who have encouraged me along the way. I have been so fortunate and will always have a sense of gratitude and belonging”.
The same goes for Dilworth, who will be forever grateful to this wonderful man for his knowledge and generosity.
In the words of Headmaster Mr Dan Reddiex:
“Matua De Berry has contributed so much to the lives of many young men, past and present. He has championed the development of Te Reo and Tikanga Māori at Dilworth and has done so much for our community. We wish him every success in his new venture”.
I piki tūhāhā a Ngatoroirangi ki te tihi o Tongariro, he whakaaro rangatira ki te iwi, katahi ka tū mai rā he tupua, he atua. E piki tūhāhā ki te tihi o angitu!
Ngatoroirangi climbed to the peak of Tongariro for his people, standing as a hero. I share his vision of empowering others to reach the peak of success.
Haere atu rā e Matua, e tū hei tupua.