Vave Hifo is a Health Coach at Etu Pasifika Auckland, dedicated to guiding patients on their path to better health. Vave's own journey is one of transformation, having endured a life marked by hardship and grief. As we celebrate ten years of Whānau Ora, Vave opens up about his journey of triumph and the invaluable support he received from the Whānau Ora service. Malo ‘Aupito to Vave for sharing his powerful story with us, one that we hope will deeply inspire you.

The 2024 Pasifika Futures (PFL) Whānau Ora Conference marked a significant milestone for the Whānau Ora programme, highlighting ten years of impact in New Zealand. Bringing together over 200 PFL partners and families from around the country to Due Drop Events Centre in Auckland last week, the conference shone a spotlight on stories across PFL’s five domains: succeeding in education, living longer living better, community connection, financial freedom and family resilience.

Day two of the Pasifika Futures (PFL) Whānau Ora Conference has kicked off, with Minister of Whānau Ora, Hon. Tama Potaka, delivering the first keynote speech of the day. He began his address by emphasising the importance of spiritual health and wellbeing, particularly acknowledging the cultural practice of starting with karakia (prayer) and PFL Board Director, Sir Michael Jones’ decision not to play rugby on Sundays.

The Pasifika Futures (PFL) Whānau Ora Conference had a successful first day, with over 200 delegates from around the country gathered to celebrate ten years of the Whānau Ora programme. Stories of impact, hope and resilience were shared by keynote speakers and panellists, with an emphasis on the importance of financial freedom, health and education.

The annual Pasifika Futures Limited (PFL) Whānau Ora Conference commenced this morning with a sense of purpose and unity, bringing together PFL partners, families and organisations from across the country. Celebrating ten years of the programme, PFL Chair, Dr. Kiki Maoate ONZM FRACS, opened the ceremony with heartfelt remarks, reflecting on the profound significance of this momentous gathering.

Sessions are in full swing at the Pasifika Futures Whānau Ora Conference, with keynote speaker Pelenato Sakalia (Moana Pasifika) kicking off the panel about Financial Freedom, one of the five domains of the Whānau Ora programme.

Health and education were the next sessions to take place at the Pasifika Futures Whānau Ora Conference, highlighting the importance of Pacific families living longer and better lives and succeeding in education.

In 2013, a group of Pacific providers and community organisations called upon the Pasifika Medical Association Group (PMAG) to address the needs of Pacific families across Aotearoa. This call to action led to the creation of Pasifika Futures Ltd (PFL), dedicated to supporting and empowering Pacific families. PFL’s establishment marked the start of a significant journey toward a brighter future for Pacific communities.

Pasifika Futures Limited (PFL) brought together over 150 enthusiastic youth for an exciting roadshow. Held at Pasifika Medical Association head office, Fale Mama, sports teams, PFL partners, and students from Otahuhu College and Tamaki College participated in a youth focused evening.

In a compelling demonstration of community spirit and shared aspirations, the Pasifika Futures Limited (PFL) Roadshow recently made a significant impact in Auckland, leaving a legacy of inspired minds and empowered families. Hosted at the Pasifika Medical Association Head Office, Fale Maama, the event represented a pivotal occasion for nurturing intergenerational dialogue and fostering innovation within the Pacific community.

Over 150 members of the Hamilton community gathered at the K’Aute Fale on a chilly evening. This session marked the second gathering in the North Island, featuring lively group discussions and open floor sessions.

The Pasifika Futures roadshow resumed in Wellington, marking the start of our talanoa sessions in the North Island. The event saw a significant turnout, with meaningful and purposeful discussions throughout the evening.