Returning to her creative passion
Between raising two young daughters, building a career and pursuing her creative passions, Destiny Grant has discovered that growth often comes from returning to what matters most.
Graduating with a Postgraduate Diploma in Māori Visual Arts, Destiny’s latest achievement builds on a journey that began when she completed her Bachelor of Māori Visual Arts in 2019. After taking time to focus on her family, she felt the pull to return to her studies and continue developing her artistic practice.
“We’ve got two daughters who are two and four, and I just wanted to come back into the space and further my mātauranga and education,” she says.
Originally from the East Coast, Destiny says her connection to her culture, community and creativity has always been central to who she is. Returning to Massey gave her the opportunity to deepen those connections while expanding her knowledge as an artist.
Graduation day offered a rare chance to pause and reflect on how far she has come.
“My highlight today is seeing everyone and celebrating together. When you’re working and studying, you kind of forget about this part. I’m right into the mahi, into the work, so it’s nice to celebrate today.”
Like many graduates, Destiny credits the people around her for helping her succeed. Throughout her studies, the support of whānau and the relationships she built with lecturers played an important role in keeping her motivated.
“Definitely whānau and lecturers. Over the years we’ve connected a lot, and we’ve got a really good connection. It’s really nice.”
While she finds it difficult to single out one favourite university memory, the experience of continual learning stands out.
“My favourite memory is learning new things every day. Meeting amazing lecturers, forming those connections, and having a strong foundation in who I am and who we are as Māori.”
That sense of identity has been one of the most valuable outcomes of her studies. When asked about her “secret weapon”, Destiny doesn’t hesitate.
“Being Māori, being from the East Coast. I think everyone has their own flair in different areas of life. It’s about seeing that individuality and celebrating every layer as Māori and as a person.”
For the next year, she plans to focus on freelance mahi while continuing to explore new opportunities as both an artist and a business owner.
“I’ve naturally come into the space of entrepreneurship and business. As a mum and as an artist, I’ve come into this space wanting to create new spaces and nurture new ones as well.”
Her goal is to challenge conventional thinking and help shape new possibilities within the industries she works in.