Andi Jones Business Tutor Te Kura Pakihi | Kaiako
Andi studied at NMIT while having young children at home, which was an experience that has led her to becoming a tutor herself.
“It was one of the most mentally challenging times of my life, but the tutors at NMIT inspired me,” she said. “I began to believe in myself, which felt so good that I decided I wanted to do that for others.”
Andi aims to provide an environment where students can begin to discover themselves, their strengths, and their abilities. “And what a privilege that is,” she says.
She has always been drawn to people and constantly tries to be a safe place for those around her, allowing them to be vulnerable.
“I truly believe vulnerability ties straight into authenticity and being just who you are is the most beautiful thing you can be.”
Andi is also a research-active kaimahi
Andi’s research focuses on leadership development and psychological safety, exploring how the two are closely connected and mutually dependent.
Her work examines how leadership growth requires self-reflection and willingness to challenge assumptions, while psychological safety enables individuals and teams to speak openly, learn, and develop. She considers how these processes operate across individual, relational, and collective levels, shaping how people grow and interact over time.
Andi uses this research to strengthen teaching by focusing on leadership as a developmental and relational practice rather than just a set of skills.
Her work informs learning activities that emphasise self-awareness, reflection, and meaningful dialogue, helping ākonga build confidence and capability.
It also connects to the profession by providing a framework for leadership development and organisational learning, supporting environments where people can grow, collaborate, and perform effectively.
“I love teaching because I love making connections with people and being useful,” she said. “I think it is the ultimate privilege to be a part of someone’s journey, and I hope I can pass on the curiosity for a life full of learning.”
Tutoring approach
As a kid, she grew up on the sidelines of sport fields. She believes that because of this, she ended up in traditionally male-dominated industries, like mechanics and engineering.
“They can be tough, but I received so much joy in being the glue that held it all together, that it led to me finding my strength in leadership.”
Andi says that to lead is to allow others to learn within the safety of the environment you provide. This skill lends itself well to tutoring, which she has been doing across many subject areas since 2018.
“NMIT is such a great place to study because we have such a personal role in our students’ journeys. I get to know my students, which means they can get the best from me.”
When she isn’t teaching, Andi is busy with her two children. She is also a third dan Black Belt in Taekwondo, and a current New Zealand representative of the martial art, which takes her around the world.
Andi is just one of our research-active kaimahi . Read more about NMIT research in Applied Business and other topics. Applied Business research at NMIT
