Stan Walker

With close to two decades experience as an Artist, Cultural Leader and Storyteller, Stan Walker (tribe affiliations: Tuhoe, Ngai TeRangi, Ngati Ranginui, Ngati Pukenga, Tuhourangi Ngati Wahiao, Ngati Porou, Ngãti Whakaue and Ngai Tahu) feels like it's just the beginning. Stan stepped into the spotlight in 2009 and for the first seven years of his career, focused on exploring his sound and refining his skills as a singer and songwriter. The subsequent seven years were dedicated to deepening the connection with his cultural identity, reclaiming his life and health, and weaving this journey of reclamation into his artistic expression. Stan has never been clearer on his mission and journey saying "My purpose has always been to uplift, empower and serve the people, my people, Indigenous people. Through my music and message, I inspire to bring hope, life, healing and joy. The world needs it now more than ever".

The Tauranga, New Zealand native who recently caught the world's attention when he was handpicked by Academy Award nominee Ava DuVernay to create the theme song "I Am" to her latest movie "Origin", has over 400 million streams across catalogue, a plethora of platinum selling tracks and albums, and has won numerous prestigious awards across Australia and New Zealand. He has also developed an artistic ecosystem that has seen him create across numerous mediums and add Author, Actor, Business Owner, Director, Fashion Designer, Creative Director and Producer to his repertoire. His artistry has been shaped by everything he has been through, and his work is informed by a Mãori and Indigenous worldview that is strongly driven by community, a view that he hopes will contribute to better outcomes for future generations.