Trigger warning: mental health and suicide.

The recent Queen’s Birthday Honors List for 2022 saw a number of Pacific leaders recognised for their contributions to the Pacific community. Included in this list is the Chair for the Wellington Tongan Leaders Council – a Pasifika Futures partner - Reverend Hiueni Nuku.

Pasifika Medical Association Group (PMAG) Board Director, Dr Collin Tukuitonga, has been recognised for his contribution to the Pacific and Public Health by being awarded with the Knights Companion Order of Merit (KNZM) in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honors List for 2022.

This week marks the celebration of Samoan Language Week and for Samoan GP and Pasifika Medical Association board member, Dr Maryann Heather, she is reminded of her upbringing where language and culture was an important part of how she was raised.

Pasifika Futures’ Ngalu Fānifo segment on 531 PI recently focused on the use of “progressive muscle relaxation” exercises to help ease stress and anxiety.

With applications for the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Scholarships 2022 closing soon, a past recipient is urging Pacific students and professionals to seize the opportunity and take a chance on applying.

With the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Scholarships 2022 open for applications from health professionals as well as nursing and medical students, a past recipient is strongly encouraging people to take up the opportunity as the benefits are immense if successful.

This week is Rotuman Language Week and it coincides with International Nurses Day, which is fitting for Rotuman Nurse and Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) member, Taknoa Gaunavou, who credits her Rotuman culture for leading her to a profession in nursing.

In the lead up to Mother's Day 2022, we connected with two families to capture their stories.

Netane Takau is part of the Medical Assistance Team (PACMAT) deployed to Tonga and is humbled to be in a position to share his expertise as an Acute Mental Health Nurse on this deployment.

Sisifa Piukala is part of the Medical Assistance Team (PACMAT) deployed to Tonga and as the Infection, Prevention and Control (IPC) Nurse, she will be responsible for ensuring the team’s health and safety protocols are being practiced and adhered to.

Seini Falefata is part of the Medical Assistance Team (PACMAT) deployed to Tonga, where she has the responsibility of being the Nurse Lead for the mission.