Solomon Islands Language Week is a timely and important occasion to celebrate the rich linguistic and cultural diversity of the Solomon Islands, and to raise awareness about the challenges of preserving native languages in an ever-changing world. Dr Maryanne One’asi Harihiru Koraa’i, a paediatrician with a special interest in paediatric cardiology, is one such advocate for preserving her heritage.

This week, Aotearoa New Zealand is celebrating Papua New Guinea (PNG) Pidgin Language Week, a milestone for the PNG community with this being the first time that it is part of the official calendar of the language weeks. We spoke to Esther Paraka, a Financial Administrator under the Pasifika Medical Association Group (PMAG), who was born and raised in PNG, about her pride and joy in celebrating her roots.

Meet Dr Whitney Ato Ruape, hailing from the beautiful island of Papua New Guinea. She is currently a Paediatric Registrar training in Goroka Provincial Hospital, located in the Eastern Highlands Province.

Over 500 people participated in Moana Pasifika’s much anticipated Netball Festival on Saturday 19 October 2024, bringing together over 45 netball teams of all age and skill levels to the Auckland Netball Centre. 

Meet Dr Tarucilla Tatui, Pasifika Medical Association Member and General Practitioner at Etu Pasifika South Auckland. Born and raised in Niue, hailing from the beautiful village of Fineone, Hakupu Atua, located om the southeastern side of Niue. This year for Niue Language Week, Dr Tatui shares her passion for her culture and her efforts promoting Vagahau Niue – Niuean Language.

To close Fijian Language Week, we highlight the invaluable contributions of Dr Nanise Sikiti, a dedicated consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist based at Lautoka Hospital.

For Fijian Language Week, we had the privilege of connecting with an incredible staff member of Pasifika Medical Association Group, Malcolm Andrews. This year Malcolm shares his perspective of this year theme, ‘ Vakamareqeta na Vosa Vakaviti - Nurture and Sustain the Fijian Language.’

In the spirit of Fiji Language Week, we celebrate the journey of Dr Silipa Naiqiso, a Gynaecological Oncologist whose roots and heart are deeply intertwined with Fiji. Based in Auckland, New Zealand, she represents the cultural heritage of her homeland while focusing on women's health and wellbeing, particularly within her Pacific community.

Meet Dr Linda Laine Elia (Dr Laine) a proud daughter of Tuvalu's stunning islands of Vaitupu and Nanumaga. Growing up surrounded by the natural beauty of her homeland, she has turned her childhood dreams into a powerful mission to improve health care for the people of Tuvalu.

As we observe Gynaecological Awareness Month (GAM), it's crucial to spotlight the voices and efforts of those dedicated to advancing women's health. Dr Amanda Noovao-Hill stands out as a prominent figure in this field, with a rich background in obstetrics and gynaecology, and a commitment to improving sexual and reproductive health across the region.

Rasela-Joy Gibson is committed to inspiring more Pacific students to pursue careers in health and to explore the diverse opportunities within physiotherapy. Hailing from Gataivai, Savaii, and Salua, Manono in Samoa, as well as Ashburton, New Zealand, she currently leads the Allied Health Inpatient Team at Kenepuru Community Hospital, Capital & Coast, and Hutt Valley.

For World Physiotherapy Day, Eti Televave reflects on his journey as a physiotherapist, facing unique challenges and celebrating triumphs in serving the Pacific and Māori community.