Talanoa Night is a night to ensure that Pasifika students and parents are heard and are able to share their point of view. This night was also to ensure teachers are more involved with Pasifika activities and also for Pasifika students to know that they are heard. Our first Talanoa Night was a success where Pasifika parents, staff and our Pasifika Leaders were able to connect.
The Pasifika Leaders introduced themselves to let parents know that our culture is in safe hands with this generation of Pasifika Leaders. The emerging leaders consist of Talaoloa Fretton, Henry Lomu, and Florence Fa’atoe. Our Pasifika student leadership komiti also consists of Miracle Manase, Michael Kefu, Sharrita Fuapau Manase, Johnny Veilofia, Niko-Benjamin Mose, and Giovanni Folau. All these students were chosen with a purpose, to look after and to guide our young Pasifika students.
Past student Janae Ann Pasi gave a speech about the importance of knowing your culture and understanding your roots. This teaches us to never be afraid of your culture and to stay true to yourself. Her speech also spread awareness of being fair towards people of different cultures.
Everyone had a good time. Staff, parents, and students mixed and mingled, enjoyed nice refreshments, including some home-made Otai from a generous parent. We also enjoyed the performances from the Veilofia twins and the Manase sisters. Thank you to the staff who put in their time and effort to ensure the Pasifika community is known at Pakuranga College.
Niko-Benjamin Mose (Fasito’otai | Aitutaki)
