Pacific IIMHL - March 2009

It was Le Va's privilege to be able to facilitate the hosting of three Pacific IIMHL representatives. They were:

• Dr Lameka Sale - GP/Medical Officer from Tokelau;
• Jerry Iaruel - Assistant NCD Coordinator, Dietitian & Nutritionist, Ministry of Health, Vanuatu; and
• Mele Lupe Fohe - Psychiatric Social Worker, Ministry of Health from Tonga.

They all participated in our Auckland Drua regional workforce incubation forum on March 2nd here at Te Pou and were invited panelists in the afternoon session.

On Tuesday, 3 March, the three representatives were hosted by Vaka Tautua and Takanga a Fohe. At Vaka Tautua, they were given presentations by the Business Development Manager, Kathleen Tuai and Chief Executive, Phil Bielby.

Takanga a Fohe services based at the Waitemata DHB provided a warm Pacific welcome lead Samoan Matua, Levaopolo, in a traditional Samoan ‘Ava ceremony. This was indeed a highlight for the three guests who really appreciated the kind hospitality and warmth they received. After the speeches, all were invited to participate in a celebratory siva (dance) followed by lunch.

Our three delegates then joined Monique Faleafa with other Te Pou Senior Management in Brisbane where more relationships were nurtured. Le Va had a kiosk at the "Brag and Steal" session and it nice to be given permission to brag about some of our projects!

Jerry from Vanuatu summed up our experiences in his follow-up email to Le Va:

"We have learned a lot through exchanging skills and knowledge with mental health experts. During the IIMHL conference I pick that it's our indigenous health leadership goals that are important for future direction... such as: Pathways to health, Cultural integrity, Value for money, Facilitation of change, and Contribution to development".

Le Va would like to express sincere thanks to the management and staff of Vaka Taututa and Takanga a Fohe for your support. We also wish the three representatives from the IIMHL, all the very best in their service for our people and community and look forward to working together in the future.

Page last updated: 1 April 2009