Search results for “Dion Enari”
Why we need a Pasifika seat on New Zealand Rugby board - Dr Dion Enari
Posted in Coco Talanoa
OPINION
Although Pacific people are the highest percentage of All Blacks and Black Ferns, there’s still no Pasifika seat at the New Zealand Rugby board.
Pasifika communities and allies are…more
Asuelu’s cash – is sending money traditional Samoan culture?
Posted in Coco Talanoa
By Lefaoali’i Dion Enari
Watching Asuelu, his wife, mum and sisters argue over money on 90 day fiance has sparked much debate. Some believe he did not give enough, while…more
Professor Jemaima Tiatia-Siau: “If you’re not invited to the table, set up your own”
Posted in Coco Talanoa
Jemaima Tiatia-Siau
Samoan
Researcher / Academic
By Lefaoali’i Dr Dion Enari
As a child Jemaima Tiatia-Siau caught a glimpse of a university building and a voice called her unmistakingly clear…more
Pacific Academics - We Need More ASAP
Posted in Coco Talanoa
by Lefaoali’i Dr Dion Enari
As I got promoted from Lecturer to Senior Lecturer, it made me not only celebrate, but stop, reflect, and think. Although I was happy for…more
Professor Jioji Ravulo: “How will you make a difference, through your difference?”
Posted in Coco Talanoa
By Lefaoali’i Dr Dion Enari
When Jioji Ravulo was a case worker involved in the criminal justice system, he wanted to know why Pacific youth were overrepresented in the system,…more
Pacific Men’s Mental Health: The Influence of Culture and the Path to Positive Well-being
Posted in Coco Talanoa
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…more
“Reclaiming our tongue”: Super Rugby speaking Samoan
Posted in Coco Talanoa
By Lefaoali'i Dion Enari
Seeing the Samoan language spoken on prime time television was a proud moment for all Samoans around the world. Although we see many brown faces on…more
Drill rap – What it means for Pasifika?
Posted in Coco Talanoa
By Lefaoali’i Dion Enari
Drill rap artists such as One Four and HP Boyz are Australian hip hop icons. But what does this mean for Pasifika?
There is no question…more
Should Pasifika Vote?
Posted in Coco Talanoa
This Saturday, New Zealand will decide on its Prime Minister. People in our communities have questioned whether it’s worth voting.
As I look at our history, struggles and victories as…more
Ifoga helps bridge murder: the power of Samoan culture
Posted in Coco Talanoa
By Lefaoali’i Dion Enari
The tragic murder of Geo Sione, allegedly by his girlfriend Naea Moli has sparked much conversation. Many are left asking
How could such a tragedy occur?…more
Samoan Language is needed in Australia
Posted in Coco Talanoa
By Lefaoali’i Dion Enari
Despite Australia being the new land of milk and honey for Samoan and Pasifika people, we face challenges of language survival and sustainability. My love for…more
The ‘Plastic’ Islander debate – it’s old, move forward
Posted in Coco Talanoa
By Lefaoali’i Dion Enari
* Cover image '4 tha Lumana'i' by Raymond Sagapolutele
As a Samoan Researcher, looking at the ‘plastic’ islander debate, I have seen it all. From those…more
"It will Die" - Samoan Language
Posted in Coco Talanoa
By Lefaoali'i Dion Enari
Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa (Samoa language week) is not only a time to celebrate, but also reflect upon and address our language issues. Although Samoan…more
Pasifika Youth Violence in Australia - How do we move forward?
Posted in Coco Talanoa
By Lefaoali’i Dion Enari
The killing of another Pasifika son Solomone Taufeulungaki in Melbourne was heartbreaking. Although we are confronted with murders on TV every day, this one hit close…more
OPINION: Pasifika NRL (mis)pronunciation – don’t (dis)respect my name
Posted in Coco Talanoa
By Lefaoali’i Dion Enari
Channel 9’s rugby league personality Erin Molan’s recent ‘hooka looka mooka’ comments when referring to Pasifika rugby league players was nothing short of racism.
To purposefully…more
We are more than athletes: Maori & Pasifika must be in non playing roles too
Posted in Coco Talanoa
Cover image L-R: MMA & City Kickboxing head coach/co-owner Eugene Bareman, NRL on Nine & Stan Sports presenter Sonny Bill Williams & Ginnen Group Sports agent/manager Zen Ginnen
By Lefaoali'i Dion Enari
When…more
Who should get a Matai title? – The Chief debate
Posted in Coco Talanoa
By Lefaoali’i Dion Enari
In 2021 Matai (Chief) are not only visible at Samoan events, but are also part of mainstream popular culture. Boxing greats Faumuina To'aletai Mafaufau David Tua,…more
Tatau: If you don’t have it, don’t judge
Posted in Coco Talanoa
by Lefaoali’i Dr Dion Enari
As I near my one-year anniversary since receiving my pe’a/tatau, I couldn't help but reflect on the debates. We have all heard it before, from…more
Siva Samoa in diaspora – Our connection home
Posted in Coco Talanoa
By Lefaoali'i Dion Enari
As Samoans residing outside of the (Mother) land, one of the ways we connect to her is through Siva. Our beautiful Siva Samoa can be found…more
Why do Pasifika need to support the hikoi and Toitu Te Tiriti?
Posted in Coco Talanoa
by Lefaoali’i Dr Dion Enari
As Pasifika people, I know we have all had that talk. Should we support Maori or not? After attending the Toitu te tiriti hikoi on…more