The conference brought together physiotherapists, researchers, students and regional partners to lay the foundation for dialogue and collaboration. Participants engaged in discussions on the current Global, Regional and Local policy landscape and workforce provision in the Pacific and Aotearoa for Physiotherapy profession, and also featured talanoa sessions that explored the aspirations and shared values for physiotherapy in Aotearoa and the Pacific region. 

The talanoa format encouraged open exchange, enabling participants to share barriers to care and workforce growth, while identifying opportunities and pathways forward. 

Jordan Salesa, a leading physiotherapist and a founder of the PPA, shared his vision for Pacific physiotherapy practice and research. 

"One of the core things for me is around leadership. Leadership is really important, in forging the path forward, where our young people can see themselves in those places and positions. 

"Also trying to be positive to show there are ways forward, rather than just acknowledging the difficulties, because they won’t change until we change them." 

The PPA has experienced exponential growth, from 32 members last year to 81 currently.  

PPA Chair and physiotherapist, Rasela-Joy Gibson, attributes this growth to the strengthened relations the association has formed.  

"I'm encouraged by the types of discussions we're having where we're able to give lots of different perspectives from lots of different parts of the journey already. So we have new guides, we have researchers, we have clinicians; we have everybody weigh in on the discussion. And to have more people every year coming to these sorts of things is really encouraging." 

Physiotherapist and PMA Member, Lilo Oka Sanerivi, reflected on the importance of these forums. 

"What we’re already hearing highlights the breadth of Pacific physiotherapy research. We’re beginning to see a swell of support for our own voices in shaping physiotherapy conditions, policies, and approaches, all with the aim of ultimately benefiting our communities. 

"What I hope to see, and what I’m already hearing, is that platforms like this spark fresh ideas to shape future policy, research questions, and initiatives that engage and support our colleagues in the region, while also strengthening how we support each other."