Navigating the complexities of being autistic in a world that often feels overwhelming, Devon Webb finds solace and expression through their words.

Devon blazes the fire of solidarity between artistic expression and autistic experiences in this essay, showcasing their united quest for acceptance and understanding.

From the back row of her school's kapa haka, Shannon recounts a journey of finding her voice and re-embracing her Māori identity.

Melissa confronts our deep-seated fear of failure, advocating for a world where mistakes are stepping stones for personal growth.

Sonya transforms her struggle with appearance into a powerful testament to self-love.

In this letter to her Nana, Sonya reflects on the profound impact of her grandmother's love and teachings.

Sonya’s first period intertwines with a tangi, marking a moment of personal change and tradition.

Content warning: Grief after suicide loss.

This poignant reflection captures the essence of grief and the ethereal comfort found in the memories and dreams of a lost friend.

Memories of bay-side moments and fireside tales with Nana are vividly captured in poems by Melepua Uata that evoke nostalgia, love, and the passage of time.

Content warning: Grief after suicide loss.

Hana Tawhai confronts the aftermath of her friend's passing, delving into shattered worlds and seeking solace amidst unanswered questions.

Content warning: Miscarriage.

Teah Carlson shares a poem on her personal experience of miscarrying her baby.

Ivy Wheeler grapples with her feelings for Ollie, who captivates and complicates her world.

Tehya Henare-Toka’s plant collection started during the lockdown, and she's never looked back.

Hera navigates the complexities of motherhood through poetry.

Ataria Sharman gets to know Ahitereiria-based multidisciplinary artist Rilee Nepia-Owens.

Teah Carlson observes the hauora journey of the tāne in her whānau.

After moving from Te Taitokerau to Te Waipounamu, Tehya Henare-Toka went from not Māori enough, to the brownest in the room.

Deborah Heke on the multifaceted atua wāhine who is the gatekeeper of worlds.

Ariana Tikao reflects on the journey of musical self-discovery that brought her to taonga puoro.

Cameron MacCausland-Taylor on the media representation of fat women.