Abstract: Describes a national initiative to increase the capacity and capability of the Maori health workforce by supporting kaimahi (unregulated health workers) to become enrolled nurses (EN) delivering care within their communities. Uses Kaupapa Maori principles to create a strengths-based framework, focusing on self-determination and validating Matauranga Maori (Maori knowledge). Outlines the key components of the Earn as you Learn model.