Pasifika SiS Thanksgiving Dinner

This was a night to remember—a heartfelt gathering filled with laughter, gratitude, and a celebration of shared values. For the first time, these incredible sisters came together from across Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland in this unique way to create a safe space for reflection, connection, and cultural celebration.

As they dined on a mix of traditional and modern dishes, the evening evolved into a moment of vulnerability and strength. Women shared stories of triumph and resilience, openly expressing gratitude for the mentors and role models who paved their paths.

One particularly moving tribute came from a member who honored her late Aunty Puapuaga, a guiding light in her life, whose lessons in leadership and service continue to inspire her daily.

The event also highlighted the group’s ongoing commitment to Pacific women in sport. In 2023, Sport NZ commissioned the Pasifika Sisters to conduct research using the Kakala framework, a methodology rooted in Pacific values, to explore leadership in sport and recreation. 

A sneak peek of the upcoming report revealed key insights: Pacific women’s leadership is deeply anchored in service, faith, and cultural values such as respect and family. These themes resonate powerfully throughout the evening, reminding everyone of the unique strengths Pacific women bring to sports leadership.

The dinner was more than just an event; it was a testament to the sisterhood’s mission to empower Pacific women and honour their cultural roots. As they ended the night with laughter and renewed determination, one thing was clear: their collective voice will continue shaping the future of sport and recreation in Aotearoa.

Stay tuned for the full report in the New Year, it’s set to provide valuable insights into how leadership can be reimagined and rooted in Pacific cultural values!