The Tonga Medical Association (TMA), the oldest non-governmental organization (NGO) in Tonga, will be celebrating its 80th Anniversary and upcoming annual conference this week. This momentous occasion celebrates the rich history, notable achievements, and ongoing commitment of TMA to the medical profession and the people of Tonga.

Jennifer Pereira’s journey extends far beyond her homeland’s shores, as she resides in Christchurch. Jennifer hails from the villages of Matatufu Lotofaga in Upolu and Sagone Salega in Savaii. Currently in her second year of studying a Bachelor of Nursing at Ara Institute of Canterbury, she acknowledges the role that her grandfather played in shaping her journey.

We caught up with Ateliana Taufa, recipient of the inaugural Sorensen Pacific Health Scholarship, following her graduation from the University of Otago. We also spoke with her nana who shared about the significance of Ateliana graduating.

The Pasifika Medical Association’s (PMA) fourth annual Charity Ball will take place on Friday, 18 August 2023 at the Cordis in Auckland. Following on from the 2022 event, which oversaw the fundraising of over $155,00.00, all proceeds from the event will go towards the PMA Education Fund and the various scholarships that the fund supports.

Second year nursing student, mother and Navigator for the South Waikato Pacific Islands Community Services (SWPICS), Mel Tearetoa, hopes to influence positive change in the health sector as she pursues a profession in nursing.

Last night the ‘Pacific Transnational Leaders Panel’ event brought together distinguished figures in the Pacific region to discuss the highlights and challenges of Pacific regionalism. Held at the University of Auckland, the event provided a platform for key speakers to share their insights and reflections on leadership in the Pacific region.

Siulolo Palu, a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Nursing from Ara Institute of Canterbury – Te Pūkenga, hails from the Pacific island of Tonga. However, she believes that her true home lies within the embrace of her people, regardless of geographical location.

Clinical Advisor Mental Health for Pasifika Medical Association's (PMA) mental health service, Ngalu Fānifo, Dr Siale Foliaki, has worked in the mental health space for Pacific communities for the past twenty years. Speaking to RNZ, Dr Foliaki challenges the prevalent issues faced by Pacific men and mental health.

The eldest of nine children and a proud Tongan, Tatila Helu felt called to pursue a career in health care as a result of her family's personal experiences with the health system. Ms Helu is currently studying towards a Bachelor of Medical Science with Honours (BMedSci (Hons)), in conjunction with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB), at the University of Otago; last year, she was also a recipient of the PMA Papaali'i Dr Semisi Ma'ia'i Scholarship.

The New Zealand Medical Treatment Scheme (NZMTS), funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and delivered by the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group, continues to support specialist treatment capacity building through training and development of systems and protocols with partnering Pacific countries.

Dr. Tomasi Foliaki, who works as a Data Analyst for Pasifika Medical Association's (PMA) Primary Care department, weighs in on the importance of #MHW. Dr. Foliaki emphasizes that good health and well-being are essential for experiencing a high quality of life. With his friendly and positive approach, Dr. Foliaki encourages everyone to discover a physical wellness activity that brings them joy, making it easy to stay active.

Born and raised in the South Auckland suburb of Otara and a child of the Cook Islands, Remonde Manu recently graduated from MIT with a Bachelor of Nursing, a profession she pursued after her grandmother was diagnosed with kidney failure in 2014.