Paula Whetu Jones

Celebrated New Zealand filmmaker, Paula Whetu Jones, was born in 1971 in Opotiki, New Zealand. She has been active in the film industry since 2005, specializing in the genres of drama and documentary, and is best known for her films "The Lawnmower Men of Kapu" and "Blessed Are They Who Earn Their Own Keep", which have earned her numerous awards including the prestigious Māori Land Film Festival award. Her directorial style is often characterized by her deep-rooted connection to her Māori heritage, which she skillfully intertwines with contemporary issues. Paula Whetu Jones is not just a filmmaker, she's a storyteller who narrates tales from her heart, reflecting the rich tapestry of indigenous culture and its place in modern society.