This week is Men’s Health Week - Why do you think it’s important to talk about men’s health? 

It’s important for everyone to have a safe space to communicate and express how one is feeling, especially for men as it’s not always easy to be vulnerable and openly share. The general stats show that men have poorer health outcomes in comparison to women, and we normally joke around about things like ‘gout’ and the ‘man flu’ but in all honesty, these are things we should be taking more seriously. It’s important that we check in on one another, have these conversations and seek further help if needed. 

Why is health and well-being important to you? 

Growing up as the youngest of eight and in a close-knit church environment, I have seen many loved ones around me become unwell with preventable health conditions. My personal experiences and the disproportionate health and social outcomes of Pacific people across Aotearoa and the world, motivated me to complete tertiary education in public health and serve in this area of work. Not only is health and well-being important to me because of these reasons but my life’s purpose is to help improve the services and environments surrounding our Pacific people to live a better quality of life. 

What do you do to keep yourself healthy?

Like most, I come from a close-knit Pacific family, within mine we have tried to set health and well-being goals as a family. We have a pairing system to check in on one another weekly, anything from conversations about diet, spiritual well-being, mental health, work-life balance, and a weekly walk. Then as a family we come together at our fortnightly Sunday to’ona’i and share how the last fortnight has been. We’ve tried to create an environment whether you are young, older, male, or female, that you can be comfortable in who you are and to share the lows and the highs. The most important part is taking part and supporting one another through this journey we call life. 

What’s your go-to meal?

I love dumplings! 

Your favourite proverb/mantra/quote/song that keeps you feeling positive?

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” 

What’s your favourite physical wellness activity?

Walks with Gray (my energetic dog) and her mates Sole and Poppy, a good old basketball scrimmage or strong Pilates with mates and workouts with my family. 

What’s one wellness tip or piece of advice you can share to encourage others this week?

Happiness is health! Be kind to yourself and have fun with your loved ones.