I’m a neuroscientist by accident. There – my secret is out! I loved sport, which evolved into wanting to know how the brain controls movements, and further developed into applying that knowledge to develop treatments for Parkinson’s disease. ‘Aha’ moments in the lab fueled hard work early in my career. Now I’m driven by the positive impact science and leadership can have. Being wahine Māori means I think differently. This is a strength. I bring dual world views and creative solutions to science leadership tables where I advocate for equitable health and wellbeing outcomes for Māori.