Celebrating Men's Health Week 2023 across the PMA Group
Updates / Community, 12 Jun 23
The Pasifika Medical Association Group (PMAG) has kicked off Men's Health Week for 2023! To celebrate, we hear from staff at Etu Pasifika Auckland, Etu Pasifika Canterbury, Pasifika Futures and PMAG as they share about health & well-being, and the importance of talking about it - especially amongst Pacific men. Read their profiles below:

Joey Misileki

Joey Misileki is a Whānau Ora Navigator at the Etu Pasifika Auckland clinic. With a focus on Men's Health Week, Joey encourages men to embrace their emotions and express themselves freely. Upon reflection, he highlights the importance of self-care and seeking support when needed.

Dr Sam Ah Mu

GP Fellow at Etu Pasifika Canterbury, Dr Sam Ah Mu, shares his thoughts, feelings, tips and tricks about health and what that looks like for him - even sharing what his go-to breakfast choice is! Through his role, he is able to support his patients with their health and wellbeing. Dr Ah Mu kicks off the first of our profiles for Men's Health Week 2023.

Antonio Filimoehala

Antonio Filimoehala is the Partnership Manager for Pasifika Futures Limited (PFL), who understands the significance of Men's Health Week. Antonio's dedication to health and well-being stems from his belief that it enables him to enjoy time with loved ones, pursue his passions, and tackle life's obstacles with energy and motivation. He also acknowledges that his health has a ripple effect on those around him, including his family, colleagues, and community.

Mark Liuliu-Afoa

Mark Liuliu-Afoa, a Whanau Ora Navigator at Etu Pasifika Auckland, highlights the significance of Men's Health Week. Mark sheds light on the distinct health obstacles encountered by men and promoting open dialogues concerning their overall well-being. Mark emphasises the importance of embracing challenges and finding happiness in the present. Alongside his professional role, he also takes pleasure in relishing delicious meals and offers his recipes for everyone to enjoy and try at home.

Phillip Vaifale

Phillip Vaifale, a Health Coach at Etu Pasifika Canterbury, has been a dedicated sportsman for many years of his life. For Men's Health Week 2023, Vaifale weighs in on the importance of mental health and how it affects our overall well-being, aligning well with Etu Pasifika's integrated model of care.

Mike Harvey

Mike Harvey is part of the team that looks after Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group's warehouse. This week for #MHW Mike is advocating for men to be vulnerable. With a firm belief that health is wealth, his motivation stems from his desire to be there for his family, making health and well-being his top priorities.

Sione Vala

As the Manager of the Learning and Development team for Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group, Sione Vala expresses his thoughts on the significance of discussing Men's Health. To maintain a positive outlook, Sione believes that making small progress each day will eventually lead to significant achievements.

Dr Leone Vadei

A familiar face at Etu Pasifika Canterbury, Dr Leone Vadei shares his thoughts about health and wellbeing, and how important it is to talk about topics that are often seen as taboo – especially amongst Pacific men.

John Kiria

John Kiria (JK) is a dedicated cultural support worker at Etu Pasifika Auckland. JK believes that talking about men's heath empowers men to become active contributors to their communities. His passion for Cook Island drumming and dancing has established him as a prominent figure within the Cook Island community.

Misimoa Lamositele

Misimoa Lamositele (Misi) is a Health Coach at Etu Pasifika Canterbury. He is dedicated to developing long-term and sustainable health pathways for the community. Misi touches on some simple and effective things that he does to keep his thoughts clear for Men's Health Week 2023.

Renee Mose

Passionate about men's health, Renee Mose, Practice Advisor for Pasifika Futures Limited (PFL), draws inspiration from personal experiences and the health disparities faced by Pacific people. Renee strives to improve services and create a supportive environment, especially for Pacific people to live a prosperous life. Renee reminds us that family support can make all the difference in our health and well-being journeys!

Sioeli Brown

#HardenUpIsToSpeakUp is the motto that Sioeli Brown, Health Coach at Etu Pasifika Auckland, stands by. Sioeli talks about the vital role that men have in their families and the importance of seeking help. While acknowledging that seeking help can be challenging, Sioeli offers uplifting advice based on his own experiences of overcoming tough times.

Tuilavoni Lama

Services Manager for Etu Pasifika Canterbury, Tuilavoni Lama (Voni), concludes Men's Health Week 2023 with his thoughts on wellbeing, and encourages people to 'just start', no matter where they are in their health journey.

Dr Tomasi Foliaki

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.