Renata Watene Awarded Travel Scholarship: Advancing Indigenous Healthcare Worldwide

Renata Watene, a trailblazing figure in the field of optometry and Indigenous healthcare, has been honoured with the prestigious Vision Research Foundation Travel Scholarship. This scholarship serves as a powerful tool, for dedicated researchers and healthcare professionals who are committed to addressing the health disparities faced by Indigenous populations.

The Vision Research Foundation Travel Scholarship provides crucial financial support for scholars like Renata. This support has enabled her to take centre stage as the lead author of the ground-breaking International Indigenous collaboration, 4Oceans3Lands. Renata’s journey will culminate in her presentation at the much-anticipated Healing Our Spirit Worldwide conference in Vancouver in 2024.

Renata Watene’s gratitude for this opportunity is profound. “ It is really powerful to be here at this conference with so many indigenous delegates from around the globe”

She acknowledges that without this support, such a meaningful opportunity would remain out of reach. The Vision Research Foundation Travel Scholarships do more than just provide financial assistance; they open doors to immersive experiences within Indigenous communities, clinics, and hospitals. This hands-on engagement allows recipients to gain invaluable insights into the unique healthcare challenges that Indigenous individuals and communities face.

By building bridges and nurturing mutual understanding, we can pave the way for culturally competent healthcare solutions that honour Indigenous traditions and practices. Recognizing the challenges faced by Indigenous doctors on their journey to becoming healthcare professionals, thereby encouraging the emergence of the next generation of Indigenous medical practitioners.

Renata Watene’s exceptional dedication to Māori Eye Health and Healthcare Governance has earned her esteemed recognition in her field. She has received the Māori Women’s Development Incorporated Commendation Business Collaboration Award for her collaborative efforts, and she was honoured as the first Kaiāwhina at the School of Optometry and Vision Science.

Beyond her clinical roles, Renata has taken on leadership positions that underline her commitment to advancing health equity for Indigenous communities in Aotearoa and worldwide.

Renata’s career is highlighted by her diverse roles as a Healthcare Practitioner, Professional Teaching Fellow, Researcher, Business Owner, and Health advocate. 

She is not only dedicated to her career but also to inspiring Māori youth to pursue careers in Optometry and Health. She actively supports initiatives like Te Whaka Piki Ake and Hikitia te Ora. Her involvement in various research projects underscores her commitment to advancing eye health and overall well-being. Renata’s curiosity and dedication have led her to embark on a PhD journey at the University of Auckland, where her contributions continue to shape the future of Indigenous healthcare.

Awarding, Renata Watene, the Vision Research Foundation Travel Scholarship is a testament to her unwavering commitment to Indigenous healthcare. It is a well-deserved honour that not only recognizes her past achievements but also anticipates the positive impact she will continue to make on the global stage to champion the cause of Indigenous health equity.