The 2024 SunPix Awards celebrated a number of Pacific leaders for their various contributions to Pacific communities in their respective fields. Two leaders were awarded the Pasifika Futures (PFL) sponsored Pacific Health and Wellbeing Award, acknowledging their tireless efforts to uplift and empower their communities; Akarere Henry and Viliamu Malaitai.

Oceania Career Academy (OCA) has made significant strides in transforming the lives of Pacific youth, with their success recognised by the New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA), whose recent External Evaluation Review praised OCA for its culturally responsive, wrap-around support services. This achievement has been supported by Pasifika Futures (PFL), whose support has enabled OCA to break barriers and create opportunities for its students and their families.

Reflecting on the year, Tāmaki College have created transformative opportunities through their Tereora Academy for Pacific students and their families, achieving significant milestones across key programs.

Pasifika Futures (PFL) partner, Pacific Homecare, is celebrating a year filled with meaningful projects and community support, marking 2024 as a time of growth and dedication to Pacific families. Proud of their Whānau Ora services, the team has delivered high-quality support with passion, from practical support to personal empowerment.

The Etu Pasifika Canterbury Whānau Ora Day was a heartwarming celebration, bringing together Pacific families from across Canterbury to mark another year of growth, connection, and community support. Organised by Etu Pasifika Canterbury (EPC), the day provided a joyful space for families to reflect on their achievements as we near the end of 2024.

Tokelau Language Week 2024 has arrived, and the Atafu Tokelau Community Group (ATCG), based in Porirua, has shared their plans for the week and how recent events have reshaped their celebrations. Project Lead for ATCG, Zechariah Reuelu, explained that while they initially planned a series of activities, these were cancelled in light of a community member’s passing. Reuelu emphasised the importance of this moment, highlighting that in Pacific cultures, honouring the deceased is a deeply respected tradition and an integral part of cultural identity.

Last week, Niue communities across New Zealand celebrated Faahi Tapu he Vagahau Niue (Niue Language Week), providing a timely opportunity for Tupumaiaga A Niue Trust (TANT) to reflect and build excitement for their upcoming 2025 projects.

As Fiji Language Week comes to a close, we highlight our Fijian staff members who continue to embrace this year's theme of ‘Vakamareqeta na Vosa Vakaviti - Nurture and sustain the Fijian language.’

In 2005, Akinesi (Nesi) and Api embarked on a journey from the shores of Fiji to the landscapes of New Zealand. Guided by their deep faith and commitment to community, joined Youth With A Mission Marine Reach, operating a ship that carries out various missions. This transition came with significant challenges, particularly the loss of familiar communal support. With determination and support from Pasifika Futures partner, Pacific Islands Community Trust (PICT) Tauranga, they have crafted a remarkable success story.

Since 1988, the Tuvalu Auckland Community Trust (TACT) has strived to uplift the Tuvaluan community and keep their rich culture alive. So, when it came time to celebrate Tuvalu’s 46th Independence Day, the Trust stayed true to its mission of honouring their roots.

The Vaitupu Community Trust, established in 2008, has steadily grown from strength to strength in its mission to support Tuvaluans living in West Auckland, with a strong focus on staying connected and preserving its cultural heritage.

Etu Pasifika Canterbury (EPC) acknowledges International Day of Older Persons (IDOOP) by highlighting the annual Mātua Olympics, which took place in Christchurch over the weekend.