Mana Pasifika is a division of Mana Services specifically focused on our Pasifika youth in Aotearoa.
ABOUT US
Our services are culturally responsive, and where appropriate, are strongly influenced by Pacific ethnic-specific models of care - to ensure we are meeting the needs of our community and our youth programs are family focused, relational, and strengths based.
The programs we provide are are designed to support tamariki / tamaikiiki / tamaiti /children and families / whanau / aiga / magafaoa/famili.
At Mana Pasifika we are:
People-Centric
We put our people at the centre of everything we do and strive to exceed their expectations with every interaction.
Passionate
We're passionate about creating exceptional experiences and bring that passion to our work every day.
Collaborative
We work together as a team, leveraging our diverse skills and experiences to achieve our shared goals.
Our services
Care & Protection for Oranga Tamariki (24x7)
Mentoring - Youth Prevention
Programs
Understanding Pasifika
Pacific Island cultures are incredibly diverse, each with its own unique set of values, but there are some common themes and values that can be found across many Pacific Island societies. Here are some of the most common Pacific Island values:
Community and Family:
Like in Samoan culture, the concept of family and community is central to many Pacific Island cultures. Extended families often live together and provide support for one another in various aspects of life.
Hospitality:
Welcoming and hosting guests with open arms is a common value across many Pacific Island cultures. Sharing food, stories, and experiences with visitors is a way of showing respect and building connections.
Connection to nature:
Pacific Islanders often have a deep connection to their natural environment. They rely on the land and sea for sustenance and livelihood, and many cultures have traditional practices that emphasize sustainability and harmony with nature.
Spirituality and Ancestral Beliefs:
Many Pacific Island cultures have strong spiritual beliefs tied to their ancestors, nature, and the divine. These beliefs shape daily life, rituals, and ceremonies.
Resilience and Adaptability:
Living on islands with unique challenges like limited resources and vulnerability to natural disasters has fostered a sense of resilience and adaptability in Pacific Island communities.
Cooperation and Sharing:
Cooperation and sharing resources are key values in many Pacific Island societies. Working together to achieve common goals is highly valued.
Oral Tradition and Storytelling:
Many Pacific Island cultures have a rich tradition of oral storytelling. Passing down myths, legends, and history through storytelling helps preserve cultural knowledge and identity.
Collectivism:
Collectivism is a common value in Pacific Island societies, where individuals prioritize the needs of the group over individual desires. Decision-making often takes into account the well-being of the community.
Art and Craftsmanship:
Creativity and craftsmanship are valued in many Pacific Island cultures. Traditional art forms such as carving, weaving, and tattooing are not only forms of expression but also carry cultural significance.
Music and Dance:
Music and dance play an important role in Pacific Island cultures. They are used to celebrate, tell stories, and pass down cultural traditions from one generation to the next.
Rituals and Ceremonies:
Many Pacific Island cultures have elaborate rituals and ceremonies that mark important life events, transitions, and cultural practices. These events help strengthen cultural identity and community bonds.
Respect for Elders:
Elders are highly respected for their wisdom, experience, and guidance. Their opinions and decisions often carry significant weight in family and community matters.
It's important to note that while there are common values, each Pacific Island culture is unique and may prioritize these values in different ways. Additionally, the modern world and globalization have brought about changes to these traditional values in various degrees across the different island nations.
Join Mana Pasifika today and be part of a dynamic and enriching sector that empowers individuals, families, and communities. Together, we can make a significant difference and create a caring and inclusive society.
Contact us to explore opportunities or gain knowledge and skills through our events and programs. Let's make every life count!
