In recent years, the mental health of Pasifika men has become an increasingly important topic, with growing recognition of the unique cultural factors that shape their experiences.

We spoke to Auckland University of Technology Senior Lecturer Lefaoali’i Dr. Dion Enari, whose work sheds light on the intricate relationship between Pasifika men’s mental health and cultural heritage.

"Those more entrenched in their Pacific cultures are more likely to have more positive well-being experiences."

Lefaoali’i's research, which examines Pasifika communities in New Zealand and Australia, reveals that men who are more deeply connected to their cultural roots tend to have more positive mental health outcomes.

Understanding and embracing their cultural identity provides these men with a sense of belonging and purpose, which can prove crucial for navigating life's challenges in mainstream society.…more

The Hawaiian Film Festival proudly celebrates its 44th year of promoting, educating, and showcasing filmmakers from the Asia-Pacific region. This year, the Festival will take place from October 2nd to November 10th across eight locations and islands.

The 2024 lineup features a star-studded selection of Pacific and local talent, including the highly anticipated world premiere of TINĀ, directed by Samoan-born, Aotearoa-based filmmaker Miki Magasiva.

TINĀ

is an inspiring, light-hearted yet rhythmic tear-jerker that tells the story of Samoan teacher Mareta Percival. Struggling after the death of her daughter in the Christchurch earthquakes, Mareta reluctantly takes on the role of substitute teacher at an elite, all-white private school. She finds that the seemingly privileged children are crying out for guidance, inspiration, and love. Drawing from her cultural roots, Mareta empowers her students by forming a choir, all while facing bias from a privileged community intent on keeping her in her place.…more

Strongman & Survivor contestant Jaden Laing interviews Uce Gang on his podcast.

Uce Gang is one of the top content creators based in New Zealand, with millions of views and followers across his social media platforms. He's currently on an inspiring health journey, so make sure to show your support and leave an encouraging message for my brother, Uce Gang!

SEPI TO'A

TONGAN/FIJIAN

ACTRESS 

Could you please introduce yourself and your Pacific Heritage

Malo le lei, my name is Sepiutaruth To’a known as Sepi To’a and I am proudly Tongan
and Fijian. On my mothers side, we come from Mua Tatakamotonga in Tonga and on
my fathers side we come from Lau Lakemba in Fiji.

Where did you grow up?

This question is always so interesting for me to reminisce on as we have lived in so
many places. Born in South Auckland, younger years in Laotoka Fiji before we flew to
the middle of the dessert - Cloncurry QLD Australia. Made our way up the coast to
Darwin in the NT living on a houseboat to Toowoomba up in the mountains before
choosing to reside near the beach in Brisbane QLD and now a full circle back in
Auckland Aoteoroa.…more

The Zespri AIMS Games, which began on lastweek in Tauranga, has already proven to be a memorable experience for the St Anne’s Primary School netball team from Suva, Fiji.

Competing for the first time in this prestigious tournament, the team, dubbed the “Suva Ferns,” was warmly welcomed with an emotional pōwhiri that moved many of the players to tears.

The powerful kapa haka performance from Tauranga Intermediate School set the tone for what has been described as a life-changing event for the girls.

The team, which consists of 12 young athletes, worked tirelessly to fundraise for the trip, selling traditional Fijian meals and kava barrels to cover the costs.

For many of the girls, this is their first time leaving Fiji, adding even more significance to their journey.

Milli Caginavanua, head of St Anne’s, expressed in an interview with AIMS, “Some of the girls have travelled to New Zealand before, but a lot have not.…more

JUNE POTIFARA

MUSICAL THERAPIST

SAMOAN

-

This year, Music Therapy New Zealand celebrates a significant milestone: 50 years of music therapy practice in Aotearoa. Samoan Musical Therapist June Potifara shares more about her journey into the industry.

Could you please introduce yourself and your Pacific Heritage  

Malo le soifua maua, ma le lagi e mamā. My name is June Potifara. I am of Samoan heritage, hailing from the villages of Falease’ela, Lefaga, and Sapunaoa, Falealili, but was born and nurtured here in Aotearoa. Therefore, I acknowledge the whenua and extend my gratitude to the tangata whenua whose mātauranga and tikanaga have enriched my upbringing.  

Where did you grow up?  

I grew up in the home of the brave, Otara in Tāmaki Makaurau. What I consider the heart of the Pacific, here in Aotearoa.  

For those who don't know, could you please tell us about your work in Music Therapy?  

My current work is within the disability and adult mental health sectors.…more