Vave Hifo is one of our health coaches here at Etu Pasifika. To celebrate Tongan language week 2023 we asked Vave some questions about his heritage and what this year's theme means to him

John Kiria (JK) is a familiar figure in the Cook Islands community, with no need for an introduction due to his deep involvement in Cook Islands traditions. He takes pride in sharing his heritage, enlightening us about his efforts to preserve and sustain the language and culture.

Back for #CILW with a profile featuring Dr Roimata Herman, our incredible doctor at Etu Pasifika Auckland. Dr Roimata's roots trace back to several beautiful islands in the Cook Islands - Mitiaro, Mangaia, Mauke & Rarotonga. She passionately advocates for preserving and sharing cultural knowledge.

Kia orana, our staff at Etu Clinic share some of their favourite Kuki traditions and where they hail from. Starting us off this week, we have Dr Mata Daniel. Dr Mata is a proud, born and raised Cook Islander and she shares the importance of preserving the Cook Islands language.

#HardenUpIsToSpeakUp is the motto that Sioeli Brown, Health Coach at Etu Pasifika Auckland, stands by. Sioeli talks about the vital role that men have in their families and the importance of seeking help. While acknowledging that seeking help can be challenging, Sioeli offers uplifting advice based on his own experiences of overcoming tough times.

John Kiria (JK) is a dedicated cultural support worker at Etu Pasifika Auckland. JK believes that talking about men's heath empowers men to become active contributors to their communities. His passion for Cook Island drumming and dancing has established him as a prominent figure within the Cook Island community.

Mark Liuliu-Afoa, a Whanau Ora Navigator at Etu Pasifika Auckland, highlights the significance of Men's Health Week. Mark sheds light on the distinct health obstacles encountered by men and promoting open dialogues concerning their overall well-being. Mark emphasises the importance of embracing challenges and finding happiness in the present. Alongside his professional role, he also takes pleasure in relishing delicious meals and offers his recipes for everyone to enjoy and try at home.

Joey Misileki is a Whānau Ora Navigator at the Etu Pasifika Auckland clinic. With a focus on Men's Health Week, Joey encourages men to embrace their emotions and express themselves freely. Upon reflection, he highlights the importance of self-care and seeking support when needed.

In preparation for the cold weather, Etu Pasifika Auckland (EPA) has been running Saturday vaccination clinics at their site in Mt Wellington, opening their doors to the community to ensure that families are up to date with their flu, Covid-19 and MMR immunisations.

Falena Prouting is the Nursing Director at Etu Pasifika Auckland and is committed to serving the Pacific community. Falena makes it a priority to provide culturally sensitive care and support and through her strong commitment to serving others, she hopes to continue building strong relationships and trust with her patients to deliver the best care possible.

Melania Watta is a Nurse at Etu Pasifika Auckland and finds that it is a career she enjoys due to her love for helping people. Melania started working with Etu Pasifika Auckland this year and is grateful for the opportunity to serve Pasifika communities and looks forward to learning and growing in her role as a nurse.

Etu Pasifika Auckland have continued to respond to families' needs through their Etu Rere Call Centre, following the impact of the recent floods and cyclone. They also continue to provide medical support to evacuation centres such as the Henderson Evacuation Centre, with a team of five recently sent to support evacuees from Muriwai.