A small group of our Pasifika student leaders attended the ASB Polyfest Leadership Conference earlier this term. Here is a collection of reflections from the students who attended this conference.

Mylove: The conference was very informative, I learned so many different things in just two days. Not just from the workshops but from the other student leaders too. Personally, seeing other students have a voice and speak up in front of an audience without being scared to share their opinions, that has helped me to improve my confidence and talk in front of my peers I see every day.

The workshops were exciting as well. For example, learning different aspects of the various cultures present. It was so cool seeing everyone getting involved and wanting to learn. I also loved how the conference brought everyone together. It showed that no matter what school or background we’re from, we all face the same struggles and obstacles in life because of everyone being Pasifika. I felt that it gave us students a sense of belonging.

Uaniva: The conference was such an amazing experience! It was crazy to see so many Pasifika student leaders, especially coming from a small town like Hamilton not having as many Pasifika students as Auckland. It was amazing to see so many passionate and inspiring young Pasifika student leaders. Being at the conference surrounded by so many beautiful people helped me realise who I truly am as an individual and who I want to be to my peers. It helped me realise what kind of leader I want to be for my peers as well. It also made me realise that culture is very important and how dancing was my way of reconnecting with my culture. Being around these young people made me think about how we are not alone and that we are all in this together. It reminded me always to back myself, and as a leader that is a big thing for me, being confident in what I say and do. Once I back myself then everyone else will back me too.

Tatiana: The conference was a great experience and was so informative for all of us. It was great to be with all the other schools and step out of my comfort zone to meet students from those other schools, and that's something that I've had to learn to do as a leader. It was nice to see other Pasifika students stepping up to some of the challenges that were given to them. They all really inspired me. Being at the conference with other Pasifika students helped me understand my values as a Pasifika individual and inspired me to be the kind of leader I would want to be for my stage and peers. The workshops also helped me understand how meaningful each of the Pasifika values is to me.