Moana Research is a group of Pacific researchers and clinicians who provide evidence-based solutions through research to ensure families in New Zealand have access to essential services and resources during pregnancy and in the first five years of a child’s life.
The story of Moana Research will be shared at the inaugural Pacific Health Research Symposium tomorrow – Monday 30 November 2020.
The symposium will feature renowned researchers and academics who will share about their work, discuss upcoming projects and foster new collaborations with fellow researchers and academics.
Jacinta Fa’alili-Fidow, the Chief Executive of Moana Research, will talk about the work her organisation has done within the community.
“My presentation will be about our Moana Research story – our why, what and how.
As an organisation that is owned by Pacific researchers, our autonomy affords us the space to be Pacific-centric in our approaches. In doing so, other opportunities have presented themselves in areas of advocacy and community partnerships. Despite challenges, the ability to make decisions for ourselves cannot be underestimated in our efforts to effect positive change.”
The theme of the symposium is “Collaboration for Better Pacific Health” and the event is a partnership between the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) and the University of Auckland, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences. Associate Professor and senior PMA member, Dr Colin Tukuitonga, DMS, MPH, FAFPHM, FRNZCGP, will be hosting the symposium.
Fa’alili-Fidow says Moana Research’s work is grounded in Pacific research methodologies and aims to restore balance to research in health that is primarily biomedical and clinical in nature.
“We recognise that people are complex relational beings. Our ability to provide a voice for our communities and families in policymaking and practice pathways has reinforced the need for us to keep going.
We hope that our story gives a voice to some of the challenges that Pacific researchers face in helping to advocate for our people. While also conveying the benefits and opportunities of Pacific autonomy in research”.
What: Pacific Health Research Symposium
When: Monday 30 November 2020
Time: 9am – 4pm
Venue: South Auckland Campus (University of Auckland) – Te Papa Ako o Tai Tonga – 6 Osterley Way, Manukau
To register please click Here.
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Date: Sunday 29 November 2020