Bridging Gaps, Building Futures: Yoobee’s Research and Professional Development Symposium 2025
Yoobee Colleges marked the beginning of 2025 with the highly anticipated Research and Professional Development Symposium, themed “Bridging Gaps, Building Futures: Transformational Approaches in Research.”
Held from 16th to 17th of January 2025, at the NZST Airport Campus symposium showcased groundbreaking ideas and transformative approaches to research over two enriching days. The event brought together an impressive lineup of national and international speakers, panelists, and workshop leaders who explored innovative methodologies and emerging trends in research.
Keynote speakers Dr. Frances Hughes, Health Consultant; Te Oraiti Reedy Equity Consultant, and Dr. Tanisha Jowsey, Bond University, Queensland, delivered inspiring keynotes that delved into the vital roles of research in addressing today’s pressing issues. Their presentations explored diverse themes, including Te Ao Māori perspectives in research, navigating ethical complexities, and the transformative applications of generative AI.
A panel discussion titled “Blue Skies and Innovation in Research,” brought together a dynamic group of experts, including Dr. Tanisha Jowsey, Bond University; Dr. Lehan Stemmet, Auckland Institute of Studies and Dr. Donna O'Donnell, New Zealand School of Tourism, who shared their unique insights on fostering creativity and innovation in research.
The event featured a series of engaging workshops led by experts offering valuable insights and strategies. Dr. Tanisha Jowsey presented Supporting a Higher Degree Journey – Supervision of Post-Graduate Students, focusing on fostering meaningful and effective supervisory relationships. Te Oraiti Reedy led Aligning Programme Design with Te Tiriti o Waitangi, exploring the integration of treaty principles into research and curriculum design. Leigh Quadling-Miernik, Yoobee Colleges Ltd facilitated Your Research Compass – From Blueprint and Beyond, providing actionable strategies to create clear and achievable pathways in research projects.
Staff and student research presentations highlighted a wide range of innovative projects, research and fostered meaningful dialogue among attendees. Presentation topics included:
Koekemoer, M., Gamlath, H., & Prasad, S. (2025). BLE-based automated passenger onboarding system for Auckland Transport
Dela Cruz, B. (2025). e-Prescripchain
Jayamaha, P. L. (2025). Interactive Card/Board Game for Bird Conservation Awareness in New Zealand
Prakash, B. (2025). Challenges in the Hospitality Sector
Weston, N (2025). The Tertiary Educator’s Guide: Working with autistic students (2024 revision)
Sun, M. (2025). Improving Student Attendance: A practical approach
Yalda, R. (2025). Securing QR code interactions: A blockchain-based solution to combat QR phishing
Parmar, S. (2025). From Ireland to New Zealand: Piloting innovation hubs for creative education
Zeeshan, F. (2025). AI-Powered Health Analytics: Promoting equity in healthcare delivery and addressing cultural disparities
Barrett, P. R. (2025). Expanded States of Consciousness: Using digital media to facilitate creativity, innovation, and peak performance
The symposium served as a platform for Yoobee’s staff, students, and guests to exchange ideas, share experiences, and ignite collaborations. The workshops and discussions provided practical insights, broadened perspectives, and inspired innovative approaches to the team’s work.
As we approach 2025 head on, Yoobee Colleges remains committed to championing creativity, collaboration, and excellence in research and professional development. Together, we continue to bridge gaps and build brighter futures.
Want to know more?
Download the Programme and Abstract Booklet for Yoobee's 2025 Symposium here:
Download Booklet
