Jemarl Paerata is a transformational speaker, resilience coach, and founder of Te Kaiārahi, a kaupapa dedicated to mentoring individuals through Te Ao Māori principles, holistic well-being, and deep reconnection with the natural world. After nearly 20 years serving as a professional firefighter, Jemarl experienced a personal awakening that led him to dedicate his life to inspiring others to heal, grow, and lead.
Based in Piha, on the rugged west coast of Aotearoa, Jemarl draws from his lived experience, cultural identity, and passion for the outdoors to guide others on a journey of transformation. Whether it’s surfing, bushwalking, or running wānanga, his work bridges modern science with ancestral knowledge—creating spaces where people feel empowered, seen, and capable of change.
He is also the co-facilitator of Calm Under Pressure, a mind-body training program designed in partnership with elite performance coach Dave Wood (best known for his work with UFC Champion Israel Adesanya). These workshops blend nervous system regulation, breathwork, and stress mastery techniques used by elite athletes.
Through powerful storytelling and practical tools, Jemarl’s talks challenge audiences to rewire their thinking, regulate their emotions, and reconnect with what truly matters—identity, purpose, and community.
Talking Points
From Struggle to Strength – How One Decision Can Change Your Life
This keynote is a powerful reminder that your story isn't over yet. Jemarl takes the audience deep into his personal journey—from trauma and burnout on the front lines as a firefighter to the moment he chose to change everything. Through raw honesty, cultural insight, and practical wisdom, Jemarl shows how anyone can transform pain into purpose, reconnect to their identity, and take full ownership of their life. This talk sparks courage, clarity, and the inner fire to begin again—stronger.From Struggle to Strength – How One Decision Can Change Your Life
Perfect for: Leadership events, well-being summits, education and front line industries, people navigating change or recovery.
Breathe. Reset. Rise – Performing Under Pressure Starts Within
In a world overloaded with pressure, stress, and constant demands, most people react—they don’t respond. This keynote flips the script. Jemarl combines science-backed breathwork, nervous system mastery, and Māori philosophies to teach the art of inner control. Used by elite athletes and peak performers, these tools are simple, powerful, and immediately usable. Your audience will walk away with techniques they can use that same day to think clearer, lead better, and rise in moments that matter most.Breathe. Reset. Rise – Performing Under Pressure Starts Within
Perfect for: Corporate teams, high-stakes environments, performance-driven organisations, sports and wellness leaders.
Lead With Mana – Reconnecting to Identity, Belonging & Inner Strength
Great leadership starts with knowing who you are. In this compelling keynote, Jemarl weaves together Te Ao Māori, rites of passage, and modern leadership to invite the audience into deeper self-awareness and cultural understanding. This is not just about inspiring change—it’s about building foundations for it. Jemarl challenges teams to move with purpose, lead with values, and create spaces where people feel safe, strong, and seen. Because when we lead with mana, we lift everyone around us.Lead With Mana – Reconnecting to Identity, Belonging & Inner Strength
Perfect for: Leadership development, education, Māori and Indigenous initiatives, culture-focused teams and community-led organisations.
Video
CSNZ Showcase - Jemarl Paerata Highlights
Impact's team’s feedback on Jemarl's facilitation of the wananga was overwhelmingly positive. They commended his ability to connect with the rangatahi, particularly those who were anxious or ... keep reading Impact Northland Trust
