“The Scots were on their way to heaven and when they stopped off in Dunedin, they thought they’d arrived.” Mark Twain, Otago Daily Times, November 1895

My LiA project brought me to Dunedin’s archaeology department, where I immersed myself in a world of cutting-edge AI applications aimed at protecting Māori heritage sites. Under the guidance of Dr Zac McIvor, I learnt lessons far beyond the lab- about leadership in action, resilience, and cultural respect.

To begin, I could not have found a kinder supervisor than Dr Zac McIvor, after a housesit cancelled on me I found myself living at his own home for two weeks. A home as beautiful and welcoming I thought, as that of Uncle Monty, anything but an ‘unfortunate’ visit (someone will get this reference). He is an archaeologist by training but a specialist in the applications of technology to community archaeology and outreach. I learnt so much from him about project planning and about embedding myself seamlessly within a long-established work environment, from which I am glad to say I made many new friends.

‘’If you continue in this work, get used to the feeling of being under read.’’ Zac McIvor, Conversations at a Hilltop Home.

I learned much about the constraints of a six-week timeline and really struggled with the coding aspect. I had little experience of that which was a steep learning curve. This was no surprise though. I designed this project precisely because I knew it would be a challenge. A key lesson is better planning ahead of time. To have a very clear idea of exactly how I will be delivering a project, not just what I will be doing. Another lesson is to avoid  over-committing myself, as hard as it can be to turn down opportunities. The support from Zac and my new colleagues was instrumental, not just in technical guidance but in fostering a collaborative environment where I could grow. I realised the importance of clear, early planning to avoid over-commitment and learned to manage my time with an updated digital calendar.

Aside from the practicalities, I’ve come back from my LiA more centred, and both more productive and more ready to allow myself well-deserved rest. Meditations and regular dairying have allowed me to maintain a startling clarity of thought, and allowed me to be more present and mindful with my learning. My time with Zac gave me invaluable insight into the concept of data sovereignty and stewardship of cultural knowledge. This experience shaped the ethical framework of my project.

By the project’s conclusion, I felt more centred and productive, with renewed clarity about my future path. The experience was a reminder that growth often comes from discomfort, and authenticity in leadership arises from embracing that vulnerability openly.