Pasifika voices lead the way – Hamilton fono strengthens connections and vision
Group discussion
Fa’afetai tele lava, Mālō e lelei, Kia orāna, Fakaalofa lahi atu, Bula vinaka, Mālō ni, and warm Pacific greetings.
On Wednesday 26 November 2025, at the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (E.F.K.S) in Frankton, more than 60 people gathered for CCS Disability Action’s second Pasifika Fono – a community-led event designed to ensure Pasifika disabled people and their families are at the heart of shaping our National Pasifika Strategy.
A space for Pasifika voices
Colene with MC A’asa
From the outset, the purpose was clear: this fono was for Pasifika disabled people and their whānau. As General Manager for CCS Disability Action Colene Herbert reminded participants: “This workshop is about your voices, your experiences, and your aspirations. You are the experts in your own lives.”
Breakout sessions explored what matters most to Pasifika communities. Key themes included:
Family involvement – Support that includes the whole whānau and respects Pasifika decision-making.
Faka’apa’apa (Respect) – Services that avoid stereotypes and promote acceptance in the community.
Helping each other – Community-based support, cultural connection, and opportunities for disabled people to contribute back.
Participants also called for disability education plans to include cultural learning, and for services to collaborate with churches and cultural organisations.
Collaboration and opportunity
Morning tea
The Hamilton fono highlighted the power of partnership. K’aute Pasifika, a large Pasifika provider, expressed strong interest in hosting a future fono at their fale – with capacity to bring together more than 150 Pasifika disabled people. This is an incredible opportunity to expand reach and impact.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Attendees praised the warm environment, great facilitation, and delicious Pasifika kai – from panikeke to vegetarian dishes. One participant wrote: “Thank you for inviting me to such a welcoming and informative event. I will take what I learned to work each day.”
Another appreciated the gap the event filled:
“This is the best idea – having a Pasifika Working Group. Well done CCS Disability Action for creating this.”
Looking ahead
The Hamilton fono builds on the success of our first gathering in Ōtara and sets the tone for future events. Our vision is clear: Pasifika disabled people leading the conversation, supported by families, providers, and communities working together to make inclusion real.
Nau mai, haere mai! Everyone is welcome at future fonos – whether to share your story, volunteer, or simply connect. Together, we’re creating spaces where Pasifika voices shape the future.