Kia Ora and Malo e lelei! My name is Joshua Hapimana Silbery-Martin, and I am currently working in the Health and Physical Education department, a role I find incredibly fulfilling. Collaborating with my PE colleagues, our shared mission is to cultivate a safe and inclusive environment, nurturing lifelong learners. Additionally, I have the privilege of coaching the De La Salle Wrestling team, a passion of mine since 2007 when I first discovered the sport. It’s inspiring to witness the school embracing wrestling, with many students enthusiastically engaged in learning this new discipline. Special credit goes to Ms. Vaai, the team’s Wrestling Coach and Manager.
In my three years within the education sector, I have gained invaluable experience. Previously, I spent eight years of my work experience in Building and Construction, where I dedicated six years to training and mentoring apprentices and managing projects. As an educator, my aim is to empower students to become confident, resilient, and lifelong learners who will one day serve as exemplary role models and leaders. I aim to empower our learners by fostering an environment and employing strategies that enable students to take ownership of their learning and develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed. I aim to guide and assist in our learners academic achievement alongside character building our learners into great men of service, community, excellence and faith.
Quick Fire 3
- FUN FACT – One fact about me is that I am a mixed martial artist having competed in multiple combat sports such as Olympic Wrestling, Muay Thai and Boxing . I have always loved the competitive nature of combat sports since I was young. Another fun fact is that I’m also a Kai Whakairo (traditional Māori wood carver) a skill that I picked up 4 years ago having completed a level 5 certificate at Te Wananga o Raukawa. I do hope one day I can implement the learnings I have gained from Whakairo and pass down the old traditions that have been part of all Polynesian whakapapa for hundreds of years.
- WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU HAVE RECEIVED? If you are passionate about your work you will never feel like you are working. So find your passion! Use it to drive you, because motivation is temporary and will only get you so far. But with purpose and goals this is what will drive and push you through trials and tribulations that may come your way. There will be many days you will want to call it quits. But keep focused on your passions and goals and you can achieve anything. All credit to my good friend for the advice.
- FAVOURITE THING ABOUT WORKING AT DE LA SALLE? – My favourite thing about working at De La Salle is the relationships I build with the learners and staff. I love how strong the brotherhood is within the school. I admire people that are passionate about the work they do for the community and especially for our rangatahi. I can see why many of the staff that work at De La Salle stay for long periods of time due to the heart of the school, our young people. They are the future!
Poipoia te kākano Kia puāwai – Nurture the Seed and it will Blossom
Ngā mihi nui kia koutou
Mr Silbery-Martin
