For a Niuean, out here singing and listening to Kuki and Samoan and picking up on syntax and conventions I wouldn’t normally be a part of, this is an environment I wouldn’t normally be engaged in so openly if not for this faith-based setting
Faith and culture has a uniqueness amongst indigenous peoples. Not many other settings other than the church have I seen our languages spoken and sung on a consistent basis. Colonial ties aside, especially among Pasifika, it’s a place of consistent exposure to our mother tongues
Inspired yesterday to hear Pania Newton speak on Ihumātou and the mahi they’re currently doing. Although a western convention, woman’s gona be a Dame one day.
The Paralympics are an outstanding display of human achievement. To perform at such a high level with so much restriction; that takes far more than talent. It takes a courage that many will never know. 🫡
Tagata Whenua 🤝🏾 Tagata Moana.
This long legacy of va stretches as far back as when tamasese was exiled from motherland all the way to mt Eden prison. & the only one to visit him was Parihaka. Here we are years & decades later paying respects to the Māori King. Va runs deep 🧬
Deeply honoured to be on the sacred whenua of Tūrangawaewae to pay our respects to Kīngi Tuheitia. Being immersed in the Tangihana was so so special and I really felt that, deep down today. Mohe taha Lilifu Patuiki Tuheitia, moe mai ra 🕊️
Privileged to honour the late Kīngitanga Kīngi Tuheiti alongside the Pasifika General Assembly. Blessed to witness this tikanga. Monuina e fenoga, moe mai rā.