Quote by Tāwini Tetuanui: “Courage is not the absence of fear, but the will to act despite it.”

This quote provides a profound definition of courage, not as fearlessness, but as the deliberate choice to proceed despite feeling afraid. It highlights inner strength and determination, suggesting that true bravery lies in overcoming internal apprehension to take necessary action, embodying resilience and resolve.

Assuming the regency during a period of immense political instability and French pressure, Tāwini Tetuanui's leadership required unwavering courage to navigate complex diplomatic challenges and defend Tahitian interests, inspiring her people through adversity.

French Polynesian cultural practitioner and navigator whose work focuses on traditional Maohi navigation and the recovery of indigenous astronomical knowledge. He has worked with Pacific cultural institutions to document and revitalise traditional wayfinding as both heritage practice and living knowledge system.