Strengthening the Vā: Pacific Women Leading Conversations on Healthy Relationships

A culturally grounded talanoa space in Porirua is supporting Pacific young women to better understand, recognise, and build healthy relationships. 

Delivered by P.A.C.I.F.I.C.A Inc. Whitireia Branch, Weaving our Strengths – Strengthening the Vā for Healthy Relationships brought together young women aged 18–25 for a 2.5-hour workshop on 21 March. The initiative is funded by Pasefika Proud as part of the Pacific Collective network’s strategic focus on strengthening safe, respectful relationships and wellbeing for Pacific families and communities. The session created a safe and supportive space for talanoa, where participants could openly explore relationships, wellbeing, and personal experiences. 

Grounded in Pacific values and the concept of the vā, the workshop focused on strengthening respect, trust, and communication, while building awareness of early warning signs of harm and where to seek support. Through interactive activities and shared discussion, participants reflected on their own experiences and strengthened their understanding in a way that felt culturally safe and relevant. 

For many, the impact was immediate. 

“I was able to talk freely in a supportive space,” one participant shared. 

“It felt like I found a community of people that understands,” said another, while others spoke about the reassurance of knowing they are not alone in their experiences. 

Participants reported increased confidence, reduced feelings of isolation, and a stronger sense of connection. These outcomes directly support Pasefika Proud’s focus on strengthening safe, respectful relationships and wellbeing within Pacific families and communities. 

Many also shared their intention to carry the learning forward by having more open conversations with aiga, supporting others, and applying these insights in their own relationships. 

Central to the talanoa was a clear message: Pacific women deserve relationships grounded in dignity, safety, and respect. 

This initiative reflects the strength of Pacific-led approaches, where cultural values, lived experience, and community connection come together to create meaningful and lasting impact. 

P.A.C.I.F.I.C.A Inc. is a national organisation committed to empowering Pacific women, strengthening families, and supporting wellbeing across communities in Aotearoa. Through local branches and community-led initiatives, P.A.C.I.F.I.C.A creates culturally grounded spaces that uplift Pacific voices, build capability, and foster connection. To learn more, visit www.pacifica.org.nz external. 

The talanoa continues with Part Two, Your Voice, Your Strength, on Saturday 11 April,11am-2pm at Whitireia Polytechnic in Porirua. The next session will deepen conversations, include youth voices sharing lived experiences, and offer creative ways for participants to express and affirm their identity and self-worth. 

Those interested in attending or learning more about the programme can get in touch with the P.A.C.I.F.I.C.A Whitireia team via email at whitireiapacifica@gmail.com. 

P.A.C.I.F.I.C.A continues to strengthen the vā across communities through initiatives like this, ensuring Pacific young women are supported, connected, and equipped to thrive in safe and respectful relationships.