On Wednesday 25 October, the Pasifika Development Team hosted the final Talanoa Night of the year, celebrating Pasifika students for their contributions, academic success, achievements, service, and leadership at Pakuranga College.
The night’s awards were segmented into four overarching themes- Junior Achievement, Service, Leadership, and Excellence- each category grounded by a Pasifika proverb.
We were fortunate to have guest speaker Aula Silipa talk about his life, family, and his leadership in the community and we were treated to graceful sivas and song by the students.
The final Siva Samoa was particularly poignant, with the Year 13s dedicating their final performance at Pakuranga College to the Pasifika student cohort. The Year 13s danced to Manuia lou fa’amoemoe and when introducing the item, Pasifika leader Janae Pasi thanked staff and advised the students to “try your best in all you do”.
The night ended with Mrs Jennings-Tyrrell who introduced our 2024 Pasifika Leaders as well as a closing address by ‘Aminiasi Kefu. His son and 2024 Pasifika Leader, Michael Kefu, closed the evening in prayer.
Mālō ni to all the families who attended. It warmed our hearts to see the Hall full to the brim of proud Pasifika families and students.
Fa’afetai lava | Meitaki ma’ata | Mālō Aupito | Vinaka vakalevu | Fakaaue
The winners of the special awards are as follows.
PAK-WAY Ambassador
Awarded to someone who embodies the PAK-way. Someone who is respectful, kind, resilient and a proud Pakuranga College Student.
Talaoloa Fretton – Year 12
Allyship Award
Awarded to a non-Pasifika student who demonstrates an unwavering commitment and dedication to the Pasifika space.
Rhiannyn McLean – Year 13
Culture and Identity in Leadership
For their leadership of the U15 Rugby team.
Johnny Veilofia and Laumeesi Veilofia – Year 11
Outstanding Service to Pasifika Activities
Janae Pasi and Eunice Lomiga – Year 13
Outstanding Service to Pakuranga College and the Community
Myra Singh and Israel Teikamata – Year 13
Academic Excellence for a Year 13 Pasifika Student
Jordan Schuster – Year 13
Excellence in Performing Arts
Ingrid Ioka – Year 12
Excellence in Sports
Sam Tuimana – Year 13 and Maria Maivalenisau – Year 12
The Pasifika Endeavour Award
Israel Teikamata and Janae Pasi – Year 13
