Lauren Sweetman is a creative and passionate researcher, evaluator, writer, musician, and educator with experience across academia and community sectors. Currently part of the Insights team at Manatū Taonga — the Ministry for Culture & Heritage — she has previously taught and researched in mental health at Auckland University of Technology and supported graduate students as an academic consultant and editor. She holds a PhD in ethnomusicology from New York University, where her research explored Māori cultural expression and forensic mental health in Auckland. She is also dedicated to education, outreach, and social and environmental justice.