Alanah-Jay Harris

Warmly introducing myself, I am Alanah-Jay Harris, 33 years old and a proud
Māori descendant from Aotearoa, New Zealand, with a rich cultural heritage that
influences my unique approach to audio description. Married to my loving
husband for 11 years, we have been blessed with three children and soon to be
four. With two years of experience training under Audio Described Aotearoa, I
have had the privilege of describing various events and exhibitions in New
Zealand, including the prestigious 'Te Matatini' celebration of traditional Māori
performing arts excellence. My work has also involved collaborating on Māori
projects and exhibitions, such as Wharenui Harikoa a life-size Māori meeting
house, showcasing the talents of NZ artists Lissy & Rudi Cole, and recently
describing their fully crochet life-size Waka Hourua, 'Waka of Dreams' - Punanga
Pohewa. As a Māori, I bring a distinct world view to my descriptions, infused with
core values like aroha (love) and manākitanga (caring for others), allowing me to
connect with others in a meaningful way.