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Strengthening Pasefika Youth Providers Through Indigenous Movement
- Tapasā
- Mar 5
- 2 min read
The Science of Indigenous Movement Event was not just Tapasā's first collaboration event of 2025 —it was also the beginning of a strengthened network, a shared commitment to cultural reconnection, and a vision for a future where Pacific providers move forward together, stronger than ever.
A powerful collaboration alongside Sonny Natanielu Cultural Consultancy and Le Moana West Collective brought together 35 Pacific and Indigenous youth providers from across West Auckland to learn from cultural experts such as facilitators Dr. Sonny and his team. This gathering was designed to create a space where providers could be grounded in cultural practice in order to connect, reconnect, and explore their relationships and future opportunities for working together.
The first session was 'Amoga (Multi-legged Race). In Samoan, 'Amoga means ‘burden’ or ‘to carry/lug something’ (Rarotongan: ta’onga; Tongan: ha’amonga; Māori: kawenga). This activity explored how teams navigate challenges together, highlighting the importance of teamwork, coordination, and resilience. The participants practiced dealing with setbacks as a group, strengthening their ability to communicate, innovate, and support one another through obstacles.
One of the fan-favourite activities was Ka’a – Lashing Tables. Rooted in Rarotongan, Samoan ('afa), Tongan (kafa), and Māori (aukaha) traditions, Ka’a is the art of lashing vaka (canoes) together. This hands-on practice served as a metaphor for intention and will—showing how different elements of the forest can be bound together to create something strong and functional. Our youth providers got the opportunity to strengthen their strategic thinking, communication skills, and physical dexterity as they engaged in this traditional process.
The last dynamic session was 'Anuhe (Caterpillar). Inspired by the synchronicity needed in waka ama (outrigger canoe paddling), this movement exercise emphasised team dynamics, negotiation, and problem-solving. Providers worked in unison to step and walk in sync, embodying the power of collaboration and collective movement toward a shared goal.
The day concluded with an open talanoa, where youth providers and facilitators shared wisdom and reflections. The overwhelming sentiment was the rarity of such spaces for Pacific providers—spaces where they could lear more about what connects them, what strengthens them and where they can be themselves, talk openly, and simply enjoy each other's presence. Many shared that connection was the highlight of their experience.
"There is usually never a space like this for Pacific providers, and they loved the opportunity to be themselves, learn, talk, and have fun."
For Tapasā, this event represented a long-term vision: fostering a strong support network among youth providers to enhance collaboration and sustain their wellbeing. The day immersed participants in ancient cultural movement practices—rooted in dance, warfare, ocean navigation, food preparation, and plantation work—transforming these traditional elements into exercises for connection, collaboration, and self-reflection.
Tapasā, Dr. Sonny Natanielu cultural consultancy and Le Moana West Collective were honoured to host this gathering, reinforcing the importance of uplifting the wellbeing of those who dedicate themselves to serving our Pacific youth.
Links:
Sonny Natanielu Cultural Consultants:
Instagram Reel of Event:
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