Ana Tiraa
Ana hails from the village of Rangiatea, daughter of Tane Tuakana Tiraa and Elizabeth Tiraa. Ana currently works at the Ministry of Finance & Economic Management within the Development Coordination Division, as well as being a qualified yoga instructor.
I am a New Zealand-born Cook Islander, my family connections are: Ngati Tuakana, Marama, Manavaroa, Kaitua and Uritaua. I am a passionate advocate for Indigenous peoples and gender equality.
My greatest achievements are those of my children.
About your qualifications, where you studied and your mentors:
I obtained a Masters of Science in Natural Resources Management from the Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand. My research project was on the topic of biodiversity and climate change in the Cook Islands.
Prior to that, I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from the University of South Pacific.
What are your research interests?
I am passionate about the environment, indigenous rights, biodiversity conservation, ecosystems management and climate financing. I am a member of the Steering Committee for the IUCN Climate Crisis Commission
What new work have you got coming up? What research collaborations interest you?
I am currently involved in various marine and land-based conservation including a rat eradication project on Takutea and Suwarrow islands, and rat control initiatives in the Takitumu Conservation Area.
“Service to your community and family is one of the biggest heartfelt joys in life - whether that service be directed at the environment, supporting family members, spiritual faith or helping your community. Service to others is important for humanity.”