Kateao, former Miss Universe New Zealand and Miss Aotearoa, is a visionary leader and a founding member of the Indigenous Empowerment Fashion Collective (IEFC). She serves as President and Fashion Director for Heart of the City. 

With over 30 years in the fashion industry and a background in management, data, and events, she has played a key role in stage managing and training for major fashion events across Canada.Her extensive experience includes Toronto Kids Fashion Week (TKFW), SWAIA Native Fashion Week, New York Kids Runway (NYKR), Western Canada Fashion Week (WCFW), Heritage Days, CNFC, E2S, Indigenous Peoples Day, Cedar T’s Gayla’s, and Edmonton PrideFest. Through her leadership, she has amplified Indigenous voices and championed inclusive spaces in the industry.

Fluent in her Māori language, culture, and traditions, Kateao is deeply committed to learning and respecting the traditions of the lands she now calls home. She honours her Māori, Cree, and Mohawk children by fostering connections between Indigenous cultures and advocating for Indigenous representation.

Passionate about uplifting and empowering Indigenous communities, Kateao continues to drive cultural appreciation, representation, and meaningful collaborations through fashion, arts, and leadership.