Jase Williams
Jase Williams (Ngāti Tamaterā) is a dynamic TEDx and keynote speaker, educator, and thought leader whose voice resonates across Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond. With over 25 years of experience in education, Jase is widely regarded as the leading authority in Aotearoa on compassionate, equity-centered, and relational neuroscience practice. His work is deeply rooted in trauma-informed approaches and is uniquely shaped by an indigenous worldview—Te Ao Māori—that honors whakapapa, wairua, and connection.
Jase’s career has been defined by his ability to bridge the latest understandings in relational neuroscience with the richness of te ao Māori. This fusion creates a powerful, culturally sustaining model of education and wellbeing that not only informs theory but transforms practice. His mahi has touched every corner of the education sector—working alongside hundreds of Kōhanga Reo, early childhood education centres, Kura Kaupapa Māori, mainstream and specialist schools, and wraparound support agencies. In doing so, Jase has inspired and empowered thousands of educators, leaders, whānau, and young people with a message grounded in aroha, equity, and mana-enhancing connections.
From 2012 to 2022, Jase served as Principal of Henry Hill School in Napier, where he led a bold and nationally recognised trauma-informed transformation. Under his visionary leadership, the school were awarded the prestigious 2021 Prime Minister’s Education Excellence Award for Wellbeing. The groundbreaking work at Henry Hill not only captured national attention but also earned the admiration of global experts.
Today, Jase continues to be a driving force for change in education and community wellbeing. He facilitates professional development for educators, leads whānau and community hui on hauora and parenting, and advocates for systemic change that uplifts tamariki and rangatahi through compassion, understanding, and cultural strength. Whether speaking on a stage, working within communities, or supporting leaders in their own journeys, Jase brings deep knowledge, authenticity, and a relentless commitment to equity and healing.
