PMA CEO, Debbie Sorensen, acknowledges with praise the extensive work and long-standing service carried out by Dr Foliaki and Dr Dewes for Pacific communities.
“Dr Foliaki and Dr Dewes have added immense value to the work carried out in advocacy and empowerment in the health landscape for Pacific people.
“They are a credit to their professions, whose careers have been impactful in the improvement of health and wellbeing for Pacific people in New Zealand and in the region.”
Dr Foliaki’s award acknowledges a career that spans over twenty-four years dedicated to mental health and wellbeing of New Zealand adults and youth, with a special focus geared towards Pacific communities.
Dr Foliaki has a long standing relationship with PMA and is Clinical Advisor Mental Health for PMA’s mental health service, Ngalu Fānifo, which is delivered through Pasifika Futures (PFL). During the Covid-19 Omicron lockdown, Dr Foliaki, provided mental health tips as part of a Ngalu Fānifo online segment with 531 PI.
"Dr Foliaki is a true advocate for our Pacific communities and on numerous occasions we have called on him for his insight and knowledge around mental health. He leads with empathy and conviction, and we are so proud to see a member of our PMA family acknowledged for their work and efforts to help better the wellbeing of our Pacific communities.
"We also acknowledge his father, the late Dr Leopino Foliaki, who was an inaugural Life Member of PMA and whose legacy has been proudly continued by Dr Foliaki."
Dr Dewes has been acknowledged for her invaluable contributions to initiatives and research concerning Pacific health issues. A long-time member of PMA, Dr Dewes support of PMA is exemplified by her continuous presence at the annual PMA conference and events.
“Dr Dewes' commitment to improving the status and outcomes of prevalent issues in Pacific health is crucial. We acknowledge the ground-breaking work she has carried out throughout her career, and are equally proud to witness her acknowledged this way."