A world champion boxer and a beacon of resilience, Mea Motu has transformed unimaginable adversity into an extraordinary legacy of triumph.
From eight harrowing years of domestic abuse to standing at the pinnacle of global boxing, Mea’s journey is nothing short of inspirational - a masterclass in courage, perseverance, and the indomitable human spirit.
Raised in Pukepoto, Te Tai Tokerau, Mea discovered boxing at just 13 years old. What began as a passion became her lifeline, ultimately shaping a career that now boasts an impressive 23 wins, 1 loss, and 10 knockouts. In April 2023, at the age of 33 and as a proud mother of five, Mea etched her name in history as the IBO World Super Bantamweight Champion, successfully defending her title twice. Today, she is on the cusp of becoming a two-time World Champion, cementing her status as one of New Zealand’s most formidable athletes.
Mea’s ascent to greatness was far from easy. A survivor of prolonged domestic abuse, she fought for her life long before stepping into the ring. Her story of survival and triumph resonates deeply, inspiring countless others to believe that no challenge is insurmountable. Mea credits boxing—and the unwavering support of her gym—with saving her life.
Beyond the ring, Mea is a nationally recognised keynote speaker and a proud ambassador for I Am Hope, championing mental health awareness and advocating for the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi. Through her raw honesty and hard-won wisdom, she uplifts communities and sparks real change, proving that strength is not just physical—it’s a mindset.
Mea Motu’s life is a testament to resilience, leadership under pressure, and the power of hope. Her message is clear: even in the darkest moments, the human spirit can rise, fight, and win.
Talking Points
Beyond the Ring: Triumph, Resilience, and the Power Within
Mea will share her empowering story as a survivor, a warrior and an advocate for resilience. Mea shares her journey to a world champion title that wasn’t merely about conquering opponents in the ring; it was a battle against the shadows of a painful past.Beyond the Ring: Triumph, Resilience, and the Power Within
A story of triumph over adversity, a story that transcends the boundaries of the boxing ring. A survivor of domestic abuse, Mea’s presentation shows the true meaning of strength, not just physical but the indomitable strength of the human spirit.
Mea’s story will allow your audience to know that even in the darkest moments you can find the power within to rise from the ashes and become a champion. She will ignite the flame of resilience and remind you that no challenge is insurmountable, no matter how daunting it may seem.
Mea’s life teaches us that the real victory lies in our ability to get back up after each knockdown, and to not let our past define us.
Your audience will walk away with:
• Belief in their inner strength
• Ability to tap into their resilience.
• To never underestimate the power of your own story
• Inspire change and determination.
Overcoming adversity & adversity mindset
Overcoming adversity & adversity mindset
Mental toughness and emotional resilience
Mental toughness and emotional resilience
Leadership through uncertainty
Leadership through uncertainty
High-performance habits
High-performance habits
Empowerment & breaking cycles
Empowerment & breaking cycles
Culture, community, and collective strength
Culture, community, and collective strength
Video
Mea Motu: “My daughter fought for me, so why can’t I fight for her?” | Hunger & Heart | Episode 13
Mea Motu is a professional boxer, nicknamed “The NightMea”. She's a five-time national champion across four weight classes — the most titles held by any female Kiwi boxer. In 2023, she captured the IBO World Super Bantamweight crown, defending it twice. This past January, she challenged Unified Champion Ellie Scotney in the UK in an historic bout for four major belts. She recorded her first professional loss but earned global respect for her courage and tenacity. Mea is also a mother of five, a survivor of domestic violence, and an ambassador for the mental health charity ‘I Am Hope’. In this episode, Mea talks about: Her Māori identity How she was able to reclaim herself in the wake of an abusive relationship The connection between boxing and love
