Pasifika Medical Association leaders to represent Pacific Mental Health on global stage
Updates / News, 18 Feb 25
The Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) is proud to have two of its esteemed leaders contributing their expertise on mental health at the Global Mental Health in Asia 2025 Conference, taking place 17 to 19 February. Debbie Sorensen ONZM, CEO of PMA, and Dr. Etuini Ma’u, PMA Member and Consultant Psychiatrist with Te Whatu Ora Waikato, will represent PMA as panelists, bringing vital Pacific perspectives to the international conversation on mental health.

Sorensen will participate in the panel discussion, "Gathering Regional Perspectives to Advance Global Mental Health in the Region." As an experienced Chief Executive and governance practitioner in Pacific health, Sorensen has played a pivotal role in reshaping mental health services in Aotearoa and the Pacific. Her expertise in health systems strengthening and strategic leadership makes her a key voice in shaping future initiatives that address Pacific communities’ needs. 

Dr. Ma’u will contribute to the "Post-Disaster Mental Health in the Pacific" panel, where he will share critical perspectives on the psychological and emotional impacts of disasters in the region. A Tongan Senior Lecturer and Consultant Psychiatrist in the Department of Psychological Medicine at the University of Auckland, Dr. Ma’u is deeply committed to improving mental health in the Pacific. He collaborates closely with PMA on mental health initiatives, including the deployment of our PACMAT teams for immediate post-disaster mental health support. 

The participation of PMA highlights our ongoing commitment to advocating for Pacific-led solutions in healthcare. Their voices will highlight the importance of culturally responsive and sustainable mental health interventions for Pacific communities.