Feleti Hema
I hail from the South Pacific island of Tonga, from the villages of Kolomotu’a, Tongatapu, and Mata ika, Vava’u. I started youth work in South Auckland in 2016. Throughout my journey, I have gained tools to improve my practice, and I hope to share these tools and experiences with others.
My wife and I run CAW Mentoring, which focuses on building a strong foundation within through a Pasifika lens. Our Fala Tangata program is one of our initiatives, centered on discovering your whakapapa and building a fala (mat) with strong support people on it.
As a Pasifika, I believe it is important to be on the board to share thoughts and ideas from our community. With our Pasifika population continuing to grow here in Ōtautahi, it’s essential for youth workers to receive the right training and support to understand our culture. I aim to ensure that our voices are heard and that we foster a deeper appreciation of Pasifika values and traditions.
Tongan Proverb: Oua lau e kafo kae lau e lava (Stay positive and count your blessings).
Boardmember