Regional Pacific Disability Social Networking Hubs Launched
Participants at the Canterbury social networking hub launch.
The first-ever regional social networking hubs for Pacific disabled peoples and their supporters were launched in Wellington and Christchurch this week. The events were hosted by Tofā Mamao, the Auckland regional Pacific disabled peoples’ collective, supported by PIASS Trust and Vaka Tautua.
“These social networking hubs are important for ensuring our Pacific disabled peoples, their families and supports are connected, engaged, valued and heard,” said Tofā Mamao National Executive Officer, Tunumafono Ava Fa’amoe, who is visually impaired.
“We are thankful to our partners who have shared this vision with us, and supported us on our journey to making this a reality.”
At the Wellington launch: Tofa Mamao National Executive Officer, Tunumafono Ava Fa’amoe (foreground) and Vaka Tautua Project Lead, Jacinta Tevaga (back left) with Vaka Tautua Wellington staff and social networking hub members.
The hubs are opportunities and spaces for Pacific disabled peoples, their families and supporters to connect and engage; to learn; and discuss and advocate locally on disability-related issues. The hubs are part of the Tofā Mamao: Valuing Lived Experience project, a collaboration between Tofā Mamao Auckland, PIASS Trust and Vaka Tautua.
Funded by the Ministry of Health, the project aims to increase Pacific disabled peoples, their families and supporters’ social connectedness and engagement, advocacy and full participation in society. The project also involves an online platform.
At the Wellington launch, new Tofā Mamao Wellington members, Rosie Macleod and Leutu Lepaio, shared their experiences as Pacific peoples with disabilities. Both emphasised the importance of focusing on what disabled people can do rather than what they cannot. They also acknowledged the role Vaka Tautua has played in their journeys, and the value of the hubs.
“Vaka Tautua has encouraged and empowered us to participate in life… to socialise, speak up… learn and to live successful lives,” said Ms Macleod.
“Tofā Mamao builds on that, by bringing us together… to have a stronger voice.”
*To join the Wellington Tofā Mamao social networking hub, please contact Loa Alivale by email: fiailoa.alivale@vakatautua.co.nz or freephone 0800 825282.
*To join the Canterbury Tofā Mamao social networking hub, please contact Kaiongo Tupou by email: kaiongo.tupou@vakatautua.co.nz or freephone 0800 825282.