Tangata Moana Autonomy and Collective Action
Many local Pacific organisations in Te Awa Kairangi Hutt Valley tirelessly dedicate themselves to improving the wellbeing and health of their communities and play an essential role in ensuring their people thrive. These organisations are powered by dedicated volunteers who bring a wealth of passion and cultural knowledge to their work. Their efforts are rooted in a desire to uplift their communities, celebrate identity and create a sense of belonging.
Alongside this commitment are challenges around governance, management and sustainability, which can be overwhelming for those who are not familiar to running community groups. Without the proper knowledge and resources, these organisations face difficulties in maintaining their services that often have a positive impact on Pacific peoples.
Recognising the potential for greater impact, Healthy Families Hutt Valley collaborated with ACE Aotearoa who led governance workshops to help local Pacific organisations build the skills and knowledge they need to continue their important work of enhancing the wellbeing of our Pacific families and communities in the Hutt Valley. This collaboration helps us to better understand the needs and aspirations of Tangata Moana peoples and communities to be successful non-profit organisations; and therefore enabling them to exercise authority over their health and wellbeing.
The participating Tangata Moana groups have long standing history and community contribution to the Hutt Valley. They represent a collective of cultural heritage, creative arts, village, youth, business, sports clubs, health and fitness and ethnic specific community groups, essentially tapping into thousands of Pacific residents in the Hutt Valley.
Tangata Moana organisations engaging in a funding panel.
Pacific Systems Innovator, Mele Tonga-Grant recognised that there was a key piece missing – a strong connection directly with our Pacific communities, whose deep sense of culture and community are central to mobilising self-determination and collective action.
“We saw an opportunity to strengthen our partnership and support their efforts in new ways. By bridging this gap and building meaningful relationships with these organisations, we’ve been able to combine their expertise with the operational tools and resources we provide, creating a partnership that’s truly transformative. This connection is a shared success that empowers community-led change, so that they continue thriving and living healthier and happier lives.”
ACE Aotearoa Lead Facilitator, Analiese Robertson says the impact has been significantly positive and that these organisations stand as pillars of strength and resilience.
“We’ve hosted 4 sessions, with one more to go and many participants have shown more mental clarity and a clear direction knowing they have the support to manage the complexities of running an organisation. As they grow stronger, so too does the health and wellbeing of the communities they serve.”
We're excited to continue building these connections, supporting the incredible work being done by Pacific organisations and creating a pathway for them to continue making a difference for a healthier Hutt Valley.