Expanding Horizons: Senior Tuakana Leadership Excursion 2025

Two of our Senior Tuakana have carried the mantle of service for three years, volunteering their time, energy, and heart to guide and uplift younger Pasifika leaders through Tula’i Ngāue. In recognition of this commitment, they embarked on a leadership excursion to Wellington from September 3–5, stepping into spaces where decisions are made and influence is shaped.

The purpose was simple but powerful: to broaden horizons, inspire courage, and deepen understanding of how Pasifika can contribute to shaping the future of Aotearoa. Over three days, our Tuakana visited Parliament, engaged with MP’s, Community Leaders, Mana Mokopuna – Children and Young People’s Commission, the Ministry of Social Development, and philanthropic leaders such as the JR McKenzie Trust and Peter McKenzie Trust. Each meeting offered a unique window into leadership, advocacy, and service at a national level.

For our Tuakana, this was more than just a trip—it was an experiential learning space. They learned how parliament works, how voices of children and young people are protected, how challenges can be overcome, how being Pacific is a unique edge in today’s society, and how philanthropy can drive long-term change for our communities. These encounters allowed them to see that Pasifika and indigenous leadership belongs not only in our villages, schools, and churches, but also at the highest tables of influence.

The excursion affirmed what we already know: when young Pasifika leaders are given exposure, encouragement, and belief, they rise. They return not only inspired but equipped with a broader vision for how their leadership can impact others.

As one Tuakana reflected, “We saw that our voices matter—that our stories and values have a place in shaping our future.”

This journey was both an acknowledgment of past service and an investment in the leaders our communities will need tomorrow.