When Fuamoa Allen fell into a coma after brain surgery twelve years ago, her doctors advised she would not have long to live. Fuamoa’s daughter Trudy Savea refused to accept this prognosis, fighting to keep her mother alive and well cared for within the family home in Takanini.

Born in Samoa in the 1950s, Silivelio Fasi moved to Aotearoa as a young man in search of better opportunities. Six years ago he experienced paralysis to the right side of his body as the result of a stroke, but is determined to live an independent life.

On 22 October this year, Aotearoa’s first ever Melanesian Festival was held in Auckland and hailed as a huge success. More than 8,000 visitors enjoyed performances, food, and stalls celebrating the diverse and vibrant cultures of Melanesia.

Rose McFelin is a vibrant and active member of the Cook Island community in Dunedin who is also a talented artist, skilled in screen printing. Paula Suguturaga, Disability Coordinator for our Otago office, recently supported Rose to sell her creations at a Pacific Market Day.

Samoan mother Peiu Muavaa Seve reached out to Vaka Tautua seeking support for her daughter, Pepe Muavaa. Pepe, who is nineteen years old and lives in Favona, was born with Dandy-Walker Syndrome, a congenital condition that affects the development of the brain.