Celebrating Nesian Week – Fetu Fest with Village Collective
Saturday, 4 October 2025 – 13:23 Celebrating Nesian Week – Fetu Fest with Village Collective Held at University of Auckland – Quad, 26 September 2025. During this year’s AUPISA Nesian Week, Village Collective joined hands with the University of Auckland Pacific Islands Students’ Association (AUPISA) and UASSA to take part in Fetu Fest – a vibrant celebration of Pasifika identity, culture, and creativity. This partnership was born from our earlier collaboration with UASSA during their Samoan Language Week celebrations, paving the way for continued connection and shared purpose in championing Pasifika excellence within tertiary spaces. Our youth educators – Faava, Jordan, and Tyson – took to the stage as MCs, leading the evening with warmth, humor, and authenticity. Their presence brought the energy of Village Collective to life, embodying the confidence and leadership we aim to nurture in all young people. Fetu Fest encapsulated the heart of Nesian Week – giving Pacific students a platform to express, share, and celebrate their identity through performance, fashion, dance, and spoken word. The University Quad transformed into a living canvas of culture, where community pride and creativity shone brightly under the stars. By being part of this celebration, Village Collective reaffirmed its commitment to amplifying youth-led cultural initiatives and strengthening partnerships that center Pasifika voices in educational spaces. The collaboration with UASSA and AUPISA continues to open doors for our young people to lead confidently, celebrate identity, and carry forward the richness of Pasifika storytelling.
NZRL Secondary School Tournament ’25
Monday, 6 October 2025 – 12:53 NZRL Secondary School Tournament ’25 Held at Bruce Pulman Park, 29 – 30 August 2025. Village Collective was proud to be part of the NZRL Secondary School Tournament 2025, a three-day celebration of youth sport, teamwork, and community spirit. We were present on day 1 and 2, bringing a lively and engaging activation that connected directly with young people from across Aotearoa and the Pacific, including a visiting team of Fijian students who attended the tournament specifically to take part. On Day 1, our team focused on interactive health education, running fun and hands-on games that raised awareness about diabetes. These activities to not only educate but also empower young people to understand the importance of making healthy choices in their everyday lives. By combining learning with play, we created a space where students could absorb knowledge while feeling fully engaged and included. On Day 2, our Pasifika Care Team – Makoni, Unaisi, Alumita, Ema and Siosiana – were on-site providing vaccinations and health checks for students and attendees. This offered a practical and accessible way for young people to take charge of their health, while also building trust in healthcare services within a familiar, community-focused environment. It was an energizing two days of connection, learning, and celebration, as our team engaged with secondary school students, their families, and supporters from across Aotearoa and the Pacific. Being part of the tournament allowed Village Collective to empower young people, nurture their confidence, and strengthen community bonds. Witnessing students actively participate, ask questions, and take meaningful steps toward their health was truly inspiring – a powerful reminder of the resilience, curiosity, and potential of our young people, and the impact we can create when communities come together in support. We are grateful for the opportunity to hold space at NZRL Secondary School Tournament this year and look forward to continuing this journey next year, supporting South Auckland youth, encouraging healthy habits, and fostering confidence, wellbeing, and connection across Aotearoa and the Pacific.
Matua ma Talavou: Strengthening Connections Across Generations
Monday, 6 October 2025 – 14:11 Matua ma Talavou: Strengthening Connections Across Generations May – June 2024. Village Collective, in partnership with Toa Pacific, proudly facilitated the Matua ma Talavou (MMT) program, a transformative initiative bringing together Pacific elders (matua) and young people (talavou). The program was designed to address loneliness, strengthen meaningful connections, and enhance health and wellbeing, while creating opportunities for intergenerational learning, mentorship, and cultural exchange. Over the course of the program, participants engaged in workshops, storytelling, reflective sessions, and practical activities. These experiences allowed talavou and matua to learn from one another, share cultural knowledge, and strengthen their sense of identity and belonging. The program has shown that when generations come together, relationships flourish, loneliness is reduced, and cultural pride and resilience are nurtured. The impact of MMT has been profound: Intergenerational Connections were strengthened, fostering relationships that alleviated social isolation among matua and deepened cultural identity among talavou. Cultural knowledge and personal insights were exchanged, promoting respect, mutual learning, and a sense of pride in Pacific heritage. Resilience and wellbeing were supported through meaningful social connections, creating safe spaces for both elders and youth to share, reflect, and grow. While the program made progress in health literacy and inspiring future careers in community health, the primary success of MMT lies in building strong, lasting connections across generations. These outcomes were achieved despite challenges such as varying youth engagement, logistical constraints, and the need to balance fair remuneration for talavou with program costs. The dedication and enthusiasm of the talavou, in particular, ensure that each interaction with matua was meaningful, fostering trust, rapport, and lasting relationships. Village Collective and Toa Pacific facilitators worked tirelessly to create safe, culturally affirming spaces where participants felt heard, respected, and empowered. The program highlighted the transformative power of intergeneration relationships and underscored the need for ongoing investment to expand these spaces for Pacific communities. The program culminated in the MMT Ball on 21 June 2024, a special celebration marking the end of the initiative. This event brought together matua, talavou, stakeholders, and supporters – including Jenniene Fleming, certified zumba instructor and local legend, who hosted weekly zumba sessions throughout the MMT initiative for the matua in Mt Roskill and Otahuhu – who had contributed their time, energy, and resources to the program. It was an opportunity to honor the achievements, relationships, and dedication of everyone involved, and to celebrate the shared journey of connection, learning, and cultural pride that defined Matua ma Talavou. We are deeply grateful to all the matua and talavou who participated, and to our facilitators whose commitment made this program possible. Matua ma Talavou exemplifies Village Collective’s dedication to uplifting Pasifika youth and elders, fostering wellbeing, and strengthening the bonds that sustain our communities, leaving a lasting impact that continues to inspire and empower.
Talavou Village Leadership Group (TVLG)
Tuesday, 7 October 2025 – 15:22 Talavou Village Leadership Group (TVLG) Empowering Pasifika Youth through Co-Design and Leadership The Talavou Village Leadership Group (TVLG) was established by Village Collective as a youth-led initiative created to amplify Pasifika youth voices, strengthen community leadership, and ensure that young people remain at the center of programs and decision-making that affect them. Born from a shared vision of empowering the next generation, TVLG was co-designed by young Pasifika leaders who wanted to reimagine what leadership and community engagement could look like within their own cultural and local contexts. Village Collective supported this process by creating a platform where youth could shape programs, lead projects, and represent their peers in authentic and culturally grounded ways. The group’s creation was drive by three key goals: Empowerment: Providing Pasifika youth with opportunities to lead, learn, and influence meaningful change in their communities. Co-Design: Encouraging youth to take part in the creation and implementation of initiatives, ensuring programs are by youth, for youth. Connection: Building a network of young leaders across South Auckland who share a passion for community, culture, and wellbeing. Through collaborative workshops, leadership training, and community activations, the TVLG co-designed several impact initiatives that reflect the realities and aspirations of Pasifika youth today. Their ideas informed everything from youth nights and wellbeing workshops to creative media projects and community events that blend cultural pride with modern expression. At the heart of TVLG’s journey is the Village Collective Hub – a physical and cultural home base where youth feel seen, valued, and supported. This hub became the testing ground for ideas co-created by the leadership group, providing a safe space for exploration, learning and connection. The leaders actively contribute to weekly midweek planning sessions, where they collaborate with Village Collective staff to design upcoming events, workshops, and activities. Their involvement ensures that every program is relevant, engaging, and reflective of the needs of Pasifika youth. Checkmates – regular peer-led meetings – allow members to reflect on past events, discuss improvements, and plan leadership opportunities reinforcing accountability and growth within the group. The leadership group also takes an active role in events, facilitating youth nights, hosting workshops, and leading cultural or wellbeing initiatives. By taking ownership of these projects, TVLG members develop professional and life skills, strengthen their confidence, and create meaningful impact within their communities. Their work demonstrates the transformative power of youth-led action, showing that when young people are given tools, mentorship, and space to lead, they can inspire change not just for themselves, but for their wider community. What began as a small group of motivated young leaders has now evolved into a thriving network of youth activators, driving Village Collective’s mission forward. The success of TVLG demonstrates the power of trust, co-design, and community ownership – when young people lead, they build confidence, capacity, and a stronger, healthier village for all.
Nou Te Ao Careers Expo
Mon, 08/09/2025 – 12:00 Nou Te Ao Careers Expo Held at Papakura Marae, 14 May 2025 On 14 May 2025, Papakura Marae hosted the Nou te Ao Careers Expo, a vibrant event designed to connect local rangatahi from Papakura such as Wesley College, Tipene/St Stephen’s, Rosehill, Alfriston, and more with a diverse range of career opportunities. This event was inclusive of all cultures, reflecting the Marae’s commitment to fostering unity and understanding among the youth of South Auckland. Papakura Marae’s kaupapa is centered on providing a sense of belonging and connection through a Te Ao Maori lens. Their mission is to promote, support, and encourage health initiatives through a network of services that empower whanau to be self-sufficient. The Marae offers a safe environment for the delivery of services, ensuring the guiding principles of Tikanga Maori are upheld. The Nou te Ao Careers Expo aligned with these values by offering rangatahi a platform to explore various career pathways, engage with industry professionals, and gain insights into the skills and qualifications needed to succeed. The event featured workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, all designed to inspire and inform the next generation of leaders. The initiative underscores the importance of providing accessible and culturally relevant career guidance to youth, empowering them to make informed decisions about their future. By hosting such events, Papakura Marae continues to play a pivotal role in supporting the aspirations and well-being of rangatahi in the community.
From Workshops to Market Day: The Lumana’i Journey
Thu, 24/04/2025 – 12:00 From Workshops to Market Day: The Lumana’i Journey Part 2: Lumana’i Market Evening The Lumana’i Market Evening was buzzing with energy, laughter, and the unstoppable creativity of Pasifika youth. Families, friends, stakeholders, and curious community members stopping by from the street filled the space, turning it into a lively celebration of culture, kai, and enterprise. Business Spotlight: Our Amazing Entreprenuers The seven young entrepreneurs from the Lumana’i Youth Enterprise Program showcased their products and services, and all sold out well before the night came to a close! Their businesses included: Adeley Khan – @meansnz {insert name} – @quick.bix William Sauaso-Rasch – @brownbeautyapparel {insert name} – @krownedkuki Erenei – @ereneithelabel Chompa – @chomps_sweet_delights Tyreese – @way2yung From handmade apparel to creative food ventures, their stalls reflected cultural pride, innovation, and growing business confidence. The evening also created a vibrant space for connection: families cheers their young people on, supporters engaged with youth-led businesses, and the community came together to celebrate and back the next generation of Pasifika entrepreneurs. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended and supported the Lumana’i Market Evening. Your encouragement made the night a huge success and empowered our youth to dream big, back themselves, and step into the future as confident Pasifika business leaders.
Talanoa Theatre – One Time Showcase of Youth Storytelling
Sat, 16/11/2024 – 12:00 Talanoa Theatre – One Time Showcase of Youth Storytelling Held at Mangere Arts Centre, 16 November 2024 Talanoa Theatre was a special one-time play co-designed, created, and delivered by our youth. Young people from the Talavou Village Leadership Group (TVLG) dedicated weeks of their time to meet, practice, and refine the production, bringing creativity, commitment, and heart to every rehearsal. This was not just a performance – it was a shared journey that built confidence, strengthened relationships, and highlighted the power of youth-led storytelling. The evening was made even more special as it also served as a heartfelt farewell to our former General Manager, Riki. Talanoa Theatre became a celebration of Riki’s leadership and contributions, while shining a spotlight on the next generation of leaders, storytellers, and creatives within our community. It was a meaningful way to honor the past, embrace the future, and bring together youth, staff, and community members for a night of reflection, connection, and celebration. In addition to the performance, the event also provided an important community health component. In partnership with SouthPoint Family Doctors, we held an immunization drive offering HPV, Boostrix (tetanus, whooping cough), MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), meningococcal, and flu vaccines alongside free health checks. This ensured that alongside celebrating creativity and culture, our community had access to essential health services in a safe and welcoming environment. The showcase created a vibrant space within our youth community for theatre, storytelling, and wellbeing, allowing young people to express their lived experiences, voices, and truths. The audience was moved by performances filled with strength, vulnerability, and cultural pride — a reminder of how powerful it is when youth are given the space to lead and share their stories. Talanoa Theatre was more than a play; it was a celebration of creativity, collaboration, community, and wellbeing. It highlighted the importance of safe spaces where Pasifika youth can grow, explore, and shine. Though a one-time event, the impact of Talanoa Theatre continues to resonate — fostering confidence, inspiring leadership, strengthening connections, and supporting the holistic wellbeing of our youth and wider community.
Manafest – Fiefia Night Celebration
Tue, 25/03/2025 – 12:00 Manafest – Fiefia Night Celebration Held at James Cook High School, 25 March 2025 Village Collective proudly sponsored and hosted James Cook High School for their Fiefia night, which they named Manafest. They evening was a vibrant celebration of culture, identity, and school pride – led by students, supported by whanau, and filled with performances that showcased the heart and spirit of the James Cook High School community. Students from the school’s cultural groups poured blood, sweat, and tears into their rehearsals, preparing to represent their heritage at Polyfest 2025. Manafest provided a platform for these young performers to shine, bringing families, peers, and staff together in an atmosphere of laughter, music, dance, and community spirit. In addition to the performances, Manafest focused on the wellbeing of attendees. In partnership with SouthPoint Family Doctors, we hosted an immunization drive offering HPV, Boostrix (tetanus & whooping cough), MMR, meningococcal, and flu vaccines, alongside free health checks. Our resident chiropractor, Dr Bo Wong, was also on site to provide support and realignment for students and whanau, ensuring everyone left feeling cared for in both body and spirit. Manafest was more than just a performance night — it was a celebration of youth leadership, cultural pride, and community connection. By placing students at the centre of the event and supporting their health and wellbeing, the evening fostered confidence, strengthened relationships, and highlighted the power of culture to unite and inspire. IT was a shining example of what is possible when young people, whanau, and community come together to celebrate identity, talent, and collective achievement.
Launching Our Youth Hub & Clinic: A New Space for Connection, Care and Community
Sun, 22/10/2023 – 12:00 Launching Our Youth Hub & Clinic: A New Space for Connection, Care and Community On 22 October 2023, Village Collective proudly opened the doors to our Youth Hub & Clinic in Wiri — a dedicated space designed to empower South Auckland’s youth through accessible health services, youth development programs, and a welcoming environment that fosters connections and belonging. This initiative was born from a 2022 insights report highlighting the challenges faced by local young people. Feedback from 181 participants revealed that while youth understand the importance of health and wellbeing, many lack the knowledge, self-agency, and life skills to address their needs effectively. Many also shared experiences of judgement, mistreatment, and barriers when accessing existing services, underscoring the urgent need for change. Our Youth Hub & Clinic serves as a third space — a supportive environment outside of home and school where young people can connect, relax, and access services without stigma. Research shows that third places can combat loneliness, improve mood, and reduce stress by providing comfortable, social, and relaxed settings. These spaces are particularly vital for youth who may feel marginalized or disconnected from other support systems. At the launch event, we celebrated the creation of this inclusive space with community members, partners, and stakeholders. Attendees explored the services offered, learned about youth-led initiatives, and connected with the team driving positive change in the community. The Youth Hub & Clinic is more than just a facility; it’s a testament to our commitment to enhancing the wellbeing of South Auckland youth and fostering an ecosystem where their voices, experiences, and aspirations are valued. We all invite all community partners and stakeholders to join us in this vital effort to uplift the next generation — building a stronger, healthier, and more empowered future for young people across the region.
Celebrating Gagana Samoa with University of Auckland Samoan Students Association (UASSA)
Fri, 06/06/2025 – 12:00 Celebrating Gagana Samoa with University of Auckland Samoan Students Association (UASSA) Held at the University of Auckland Quad, 06 June 2025 In June 2025, Village Collective proudly partnered with the University of Auckland Samoan Students’ Association (UASSA) to sponsor their Samoan Language Week Showcase, held at the University’s Quad. This marked the beginning of a meaningful partnership with UASSA and their community of young Pasifika leaders, who dedicated an entire week to honoring the richness of Samoan language, culture, and identity within their educational space. For Village Collective, the purpose of supporting this cohort was clear: identity is wellbeing. By investing in youth-led initiatives that celebrate language and culture, we strengthen young people’s confidence, sense of belonging, and ability to thrive. Partnering with UASSA affirms our commitment to creating spaces where Pasifika youth feel seen, valued and empowered – not only in their communities, but within academic institutions too. The celebrations began with an Ava Ceremony – a sacred and traditional custom that signifies the opening of an important gathering, grounding the week in respect and cultural integrity. On Tuesday, UASSA hosted a Sa’ili le Atua Spiritual Night, dedicating an evening to give back to God and placing faith at the center of their journey, ensuring the rest of Samoan Language Week was guided and blessed. Midweek, students gathered for the Le Malu Workshop, designed to support Samoan students in deepening their understanding of cultural traditions and strengthening confidence in their identities as tama and tama’ita’i. Thursday morning featured an Academic Seminar, with faculty associations presenting their purpose and highlighting the role of identity in academia. That same evening, UASSA collaborated with AUTSA to host a Sports Night, bringing together laughter, fellowship, and friendly competition. The week culminated in the much-appreciated Samoan Language Week Showcase on Friday evening. This finale was a vibrant celebration of Gagana Samoa, culture, and identity through powerful performances – all organized, facilitated, and brought to life by at least 45 active members of UASSA. Supporting UASSA’s Samoan Language Week was more than sponsorship; it was an act of solidarity with the next generation of Pasifika leaders. This partnership has opened the door to new networks, relationships, and collaborations with young people who are proudly carrying their culture forward while shaping a future grounded in resilience, pride, and unity.