Kuki Cre8tive students were thrilled to have the opportunity to candidly interview Prime Minister Mark Brown yesterday, marking his first official appointment of the year.

The students had worked all morning preparing for the television interview, setting up cameras, lighting, sound, presentations and questions for the Prime Minister.

Confident and endearing nine-year-old Maria-Grace Tepaeru Dashwood posed the direct question, “What’s your favourite country apart from the Cook Islands and are you thinking of changing our flag?”

Brown responded that his favourite countries were France in Europe, Japan in Asia, and Egypt in Africa, citing their rich history, culture, and people.

Regarding the flag change, Brown replied: “That’s something for the people to decide … we have to ask the people first.”

Speaking to Cook Islands News, Dashwood said: “I was a little nervous interviewing him … yes, I’d like to interview him again one day, definitely.”

Dashwood said she enjoys being part of Kuki Cre8tive “because I can be myself”.

Kohen Holley, a 16-year-old Tereora College student, shared: “I was a bit nervous at first, but then once I got talking to him it was very relaxing and very easy to do.”

Holley is passionate about Kuki Cre8tive and harbours ambitious dreams.

“I really want to show my talent and possibly make it to like Hollywood and other big places that do a lot of acting,” he said.

Eighteen children are participating in the intensive three-day Kuki Cre8tive camp at the Pa Ariki Palace, delving into performing arts, dance and film television production. The camp wraps up today.