Have you heard the terms 'data sovereignty' or 'Indigenous data sovereignty' and been left wondering what they means, why it might be important for your children, your workplace, or your community? Have you tried to grapple with the potential consequences of the rise of AI or data mining and been left feeling helpless? Then this escape room is a perfect place for you!

We start out by introducing key concepts such as 'what is data?', then work through consequences and solutions available to everyone. Initially designed for rangatahi (young people), the escape room and session is easily accessible to all, with depth and examples discussed varying depending on the interests and relevance to the players.

In the game, players take on the role of spies working for mana whenua (traditional guardians of the land), with the mission of recovering stolen data and intellectual property, including traditional knowledges, cultural artefacts, and genetic sequences. While the game is packed with puzzles, it also delves into important themes that spark meaningful discussions once the game concludes.

Rooted in Kaupapa Māori pedagogies, it promotes critical thinking and collaboration while addressing contemporary issues in the 'Data Revolution'. With successful facilitations across diverse groups including intermediate aged students through to postgraduate students as well as businesses, research institutes, and community organizations, our session serves as a model for innovative, culturally grounded education that promotes Indigenous perspectives in contemporary contexts. The activity aims to enhance understanding of taonga Māori, data sovereignty, and related challenges, serving as a model for culturally grounded education that is fit-for-all.

Sequoia Short (Ngaati Maniapoto, Ngaati Apakura, Waikato-Tainui, Ngāti Toa Rangatira), a PhD student at Te Kura Pakihi – Otago Business School, has created an escape room focused on Indigenous data sovereignty.<