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.

Aotearoa Tongan Health Workers Association (ATHWA), a Pasifika Futures partner, are proactively creating positive shifts in mental health education with their Pacific Dementia Māngalo Workshop. Taking place during New Zealand’s 2024 Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW), the workshop takes a community approach, opening the space to those diagnosed with dementia, those who may be supporting family members, and those who may seek further education around the topic.

The Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group joins Aotearoa New Zealand in expressing their heartfelt condolences to the family of the Maaori King, Kiingi Tuuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, who peacefully passed away at the age of 69 last week. Thousands have gathered at Tuurangawaewae Marae to pay their respects to the Kiingitanga, including guests from around the Pacific region, remembering him for his legacy of social justice and advocacy.

The legal field may seem distant and unattainable for many Pacific youth, particularly those from low-decile schools. The MALOSI Project, a law-focused outreach programme run by Pacific law students at the University of Auckland, is dedicated to changing that perception. By going directly into schools with a high percentage of Pacific students, MALOSI is not only encouraging these young minds to consider university but also equipping them with the confidence and resources to make that dream a reality.