Building Community, Empowering
Talavou

For nearly 30 years, Village Collective has worked alongside Pasifika communities – empowering young people and their families with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make informed decisions about their health, while navigating life with cultural pride and resilience. 

We support talavou (youth) from across our diverse communities, including Maori, Pacific, Disabled, Neurodivergent, Rainbow, and Gender-Diverse young people – ensuring every voice is heard and every pathway to wellbeing is respected and valued. 

Located in the heart of South Auckland in Manukau, the Village Collective Clinic is led by Pasifika clinicians who combine clinical expertise with cultural knowledge. The clinic provides a safe, culturally responsive space where young people can access wraparound support – from healthcare and mentoring to education, leadership, and employment opportunities. 

Our holistic approach nurtures, physical, mental, spiritual, and cultural wellbeing, with services designed and delivered by Pasifika, for Pasifika. 

Guided by the belief that prevention is better than cure, our work draws on the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion – building individual skills, strengthening community action, creating supportive environments, shaping healthy public policy, and reorienting health services. 

While our roots are in Sexual Reproductive Health, our mission has grown to embrace the wider determinants of wellbeing. Today, we deliver holistic services – including mental health support, mentoring,leadership development, healthy relationships, and cultural connection – ensuring talavou thrive in every aspect of life.

OUR VALUES

Tino Rangatiratanga

(Maori), Is the Maori principle of self-determination and authority over people, whenua, and resources. It reflects a commitment to Maori autonomy, cultural preservation, and protecting identity, rights, and connections to the land for future generations. 

Vanua

(Fijian). Represents the deep connection between land, people, culture, and community. It reflects identity, belonging, and the values and relationships that link people to their heritage and environment. 

Fakamālīe

(Niuean). Is a Niuean value of respect, humility, and restoring harmony. More than an apology, it acknowledges the impact of one’s actions and strengthens relationships within the community. 

Pūkenga

(Cook Island). Refers to skills, knowledge, and wisdom, while also reflecting personal integrity and strong character. It embodies honesty, reliability, and a commitment to using one’s abilities responsibly, contributing positively to the well-being of the community. 

Alofa

(Samoan). Is the Samoan value of love expressed through compassion, care, and service to others. It reflects a deep commitment to nurturing relationships, supporting family and community, and fostering unity, kindness, and collective well-being. 

Faka'apa'apa

(Tonga), Is the Tongan value of respect, honour and humility. It reflects recognising the dignity of others, especially elders, leaders, and family, and guides behaviours that strengthen relationships, harmony, and community well-being. 

Building Our
Village

Established in 1997, the organisation—then known as Family Life Education Pasefika (FLEP) Services—was created to provide sexual and reproductive health education across schools, churches, sports clubs, alternative education providers, and community groups. Over time, our services expanded to include mental health support, mentoring, healthy relationships, and leadership development. In 2013, the organisation rebranded and began operating as Village Collective.

Our mission extends beyond education. We aim to empower young people to take ownership of their wellbeing while developing an understanding of the world around them. We foster meaningful conversations within homes and communities, recognising that when young people are informed and supported, they share that knowledge with their families—strengthening relationships and building intergenerational trust.

Our programmes are delivered through three key focus areas, or Fale, reflecting our culturally responsive and relational approach:

  • Community Fale – leadership, advocacy, wellbeing, and career development
  • Rainbow Fale – safe and inclusive spaces for MVPFAFF+/LGBTQIA+ youth
  • Talavou Fale – sexual and reproductive health education and youth mentorship

 

“Fales within a village” is a deeply Pacific concept—relational, interconnected, and grounded in identity. A fale is more than a physical structure; it is a living space of connection, ceremony, and collective decision-making. Each fale within Village Collective serves a distinct purpose, yet none operates in isolation.

Like stars in a constellation, they form an ecosystem grounded in reciprocity, shared responsibility, and va—the sacred space between people, places, and purpose.

Our Collective

Taitu'uga Rokeni Tofaeono

He/Him | Chief Executive

Thee Sisilia Fakalata

She/Her | Operations Manager

Tuifeai Yvette Sapatu

She/Her | Digital Operations Coordinator

Atawhai Liaina

She/Her | Accounts

Letavai Faava Tuigamala

She/Her | Talavou Fale Youth Educator

Mela Taavao

Any pronouns of Respect | Rainbow Fale Youth Educator

Jenna Fruean

She/Her | Community Fale Lead

Jazriel Lavakula

She/Her | Rainbow Fale Youth Worker

Dr. Penni Wolfgramm

Any pronouns of Respect | Project Lead Matala Access & Choice

Lane Unasa

He/Him | Talavou Fale Youth Educator

Tyson Pula

He/Him | Talavou Fale Youth Educator

Jordan Khan

He/Him | Community Fale Youth Educator

Jules Farane

She/Her | Rainbow Fale Youth Educator

Makoni Havea

She/Her | Clinical Lead

Rubashnee Naidoo

She/Her | Nurse Practitioner

Unaisi Wainivetau

She/Her | Nurse Practitioner

Madonna Dasler

She/Her | Registered Nurse

Dr Penni Wolfgramm

Any pronouns of Respect | Clinical Psychologist

Jessee Fia'Ali'i

He/Him | Registered Psychologist

Sonia Pope

She/Her | Educational Psychologist

Alumita Naigacia Bulicokocoko

She/Her | Registered Vaccinator

Ema Vea

She/Her | Registered Vaccinator

Siosiana Lotoaatu

She/Her | Registered Vaccinator

Fuimaono Seiuli
Ativalu Lemuelu

He/Him | Chairman

Ed Perelini

He/Him | Board Secretary

Afi Leuila

He/Him | Board Trustee

Tessa Auelua

She/Her | Board Treasurer