Farewell to our Founding Co-Director Professor Julian Paton

Pūtahi Manawa acknowledges and celebrates the contribution of Professor Julian Paton as he steps down from his role as Founding Co-Director.

Since helping establish Pūtahi Manawa in 2019, Julian has played a pivotal role in shaping the Centre of Research Excellence and advancing its mission to improve heart health outcomes for Māori, Pacific People, and everyone in Aotearoa New Zealand.

- Matua Joe quote here OR

Under Julian's leadership, Pūtahi Manawa has supported groundbreaking cardiovascular research, fostered national and international collaborations, and invested in the next generation of researchers. His vision, scientific leadership and commitment to innovation and science communication have helped position Pūtahi Manawa as a leading voice in cardiovascular research and equity-focused health research.

Soteria Ieremia, Co-Director Pacific said that Julian's vision helped shape what Pūtahi Manawa has become. 

“He brought scientific rigour, a deep commitment to precision medicine, and a genuine understanding of the communities we serve and the researchers, clinicians, and advocates who walk alongside them to drive change. That rigour and understanding continue to guide our work. On behalf of the co-directors, we thank Julian for his contribution, his leadership, and the foundation he leaves us to build on. We wish him every success ahead.”

- Soteria Ieremia

Karen Brewer, Co-Director Māori, said that over time, Pūtahi Manawa has evolved to place greater emphasis on supporting the Māori and Pacific workforce, with an increasing focus on community-based research.

“I have admired Julian's humility and openness to learning and adapting throughout this evolution. His willingness to listen, embrace new perspectives and support the growth of the Centre has helped Pūtahi Manawa develop into the organisation it is today.”

- Karen Brewer

Throughout his tenure, Julian championed a collaborative approach that brought together researchers, clinicians, communities and health organisations to address some of the country's most pressing cardiovascular health challenges. His dedication to translating research into meaningful impact has left a lasting legacy that will continue to shape the Centre's work for years to come.

- Matua Joe quote here

On behalf of the Pūtahi Manawa whānau, we extend our sincere thanks to Julian for his leadership, passion and commitment over the past seven years. We wish him every success in his future endeavours and look forward to celebrating the ongoing impact of the foundations he helped build.

Ngā mihi nui, Julian, for your outstanding contribution to Pūtahi Manawa and advancing heart health equity for Māori and Pacific People in Aotearoa.