Executive Director for F’INE, Phylesha Brown-Acton MNZM, emphasises the importance of the event as a platform of expression for creatives in the Pasifika Rainbow community. 

“F’INE Fest is a celebration, but most importantly it is a platform that allows our Pasifika Rainbow creatives the opportunity to express themselves by telling stories about how they interact and engage with the world.

F’INE Fest encourages all creatives involved to showcase and convey their creative art practice and their stories without barriers, judgement, harm, fear or shame, and this festival has no tolerance for ignorance, hate, discrimination or censorship.”

The festival is a three day event and will feature a series of workshops, facilitating a space to exchange knowledge with the wider community, while also giving artists an opportunity to creatively tell their stories. 

Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, Hon. Carmel Sepuloni, was in attendance and officially opened the event. 

“It’s so important to have a vehicle like this festival to provide visibility and empowerment. All Pasifika people deserve to move through the world with pride, and enjoy a strong sense of belonging, identity and connection. It brings me joy that the coming days will honour these fundamental rights and celebrate the strength of Pasifika people in Aotearoa New Zealand.”

Ms Brown-Acton expressed her gratitude to PFL for their ongoing support and contribution to the trust. 

“Your contributions have enabled us to provide this platform for many community members. Your support, for the last 8 years, enabled our organisation, providing access for our Pasifika Rainbow communities to affirming care and support through our Whānau Ora services.” 

The F’INE Festival is running from Thursday 6 October - Saturday 8 October. Click here for more information on the event and tickets. 

Date: Saturday 8 October 2022

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