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Dr Robbie Francis Watene

A professional headshot of Robbie Francis Watene. Robbie is a Pākehā woman and is wearing a dark green dress and long earrings, she is smiling.

Kairakahau Matua Whaikaha
Disabled Research Lead

(Kāti Pākehā)

Kia ora! I’m Robbie, I’m a Researcher and human rights defender from Takaanini in South Auckland. My role at the DBI is Disabled Research Lead, where I have the privilege of working alongside a team of amazing disabled researchers and allies. I oversee a range of disabled-led and disability inclusive human rights research projects, including the Disabled Person-Led Monitoring of the UNCRPD in Aotearoa. 

I have a Master’s Degree in International Conflict Resolution and Mediation, and in 2018, I completed my PhD at the University of Otago National Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies. I have worked in the disability sector for over 15 years as a support worker, humanitarian documentarian, social entrepreneur, researcher, author, consultant, and advisor, and I have worked with disabled people in France, Bangladesh, India, Mexico, Colombia and Ecuador.

When I am not researching, I sit on various governance and advisory boards, and am the proud Mum of Mita (3 years) and Te Kawehaumārie (1 year), who bring me endless joy, delight and sleepless nights.

Robbie and Umi are together in a kayak. Umi is sitting behind Robbie and is holding a paddle and Robbie is holding her sunhat. They are both smiling, looking a bit tired but very happy.
A closeup selfie of Robbie. She is holding a sign that says; Stop the Cuts, Stop Disabling our Good Lives. She is wearing a black and white keffiyeh and is smiling and looking determined.
Staff Profile, additional images