Last week I had the privilege of taking three of our Pasifika students to the annual Pasifika Voices speech competition.

Mariam  (year 12) spoke in the Senior category. Her topic was ‘’Breaking Barriers: Addressing Stereotypes Faced by Pacific Islanders’’.

In the Junior category we had two entrants - Giaan (year 10) and Ayesha (year 9),  both spoke about growing up in a Pasifika household.

There were many Otago-Ōtepoti schools represented for this day and included many Pacific languages and cultural practices.

The speeches were all passionate and talked of the impact of Pasifika values and faith being the pillars of their culture and family life. This was a common theme and makes their households and family life special.

Some of the speeches were comic and some more serious, but they all spoke of traditions, values and the importance of these in their lives growing up.

It was a very special day for us to be a part of the wider Ōtepoti school community and to listen and enjoy everyone's speeches. Thank you so much  Mariam, Giaan and Ayesha for participating with your beautiful and passionate speeches, we are so proud of you all. 

‘’... I would like to talk about the most important part of a Samoan Household. It is the strong bond that we make with our families and the environment that we have built together. One of my family’s rules is that ‘aiga’ (family) must always come first, no matter if it’s sport or education they must always come first. Whether it's doing chores with your siblings, or when you take care of your elders, every family member has a role to play and we all manage these roles together. When you have guests visiting your house, you must always make sure that they will feel welcome. Visitors are treated as special guests. They are given the best room, you cook for them and make sure that you feel like your home is theirs. This Is just the way Samoans are. In a fale or home, you should never feel like you are alone and that no one wants to do anything with you. Samoan culture thrives on hospitality. We are a communal people that love, support and care for others no matter what you do or wherever you are. 

In conclusion, living in a Samoan household is more than just following their traditions, it is about family, a deep sense of belonging and respect. It has shaped me for who I am, and no matter where I go or what I do, I will always be proud of my culture and call it home.’’

Section of Giaan’s speech.

‘’Then there are the cultural traditions. Growing up in a Fijian household means

being surrounded by traditions that bring people together. From big family

gatherings to special celebrations, our culture is woven into everyday life.

I remember my Mum telling stories of life back in the village for her and her

parents and her parents' parents, how things were done and how different life is

now.

The stories have been passed down for generations, they keep us connected to

where we come from. They remind us of the strength and resilience of our

ancestors and the importance of keeping our heritage alive.’’

Section of Ayesha’s speech.

‘’…So today, I encourage all of us to rethink the way we see Pacific Islanders. We need to recognise our strengths and uplift each other. To look beyond the labels and break those barriers that have held us back for so many generations.

Pacific Islanders are more than some background characters in a story, more than just athletes. We are creators, innovators, scholars and  academics.

It is time the world sees us for who we truly are’’. 

Section of Mariam’s speech.