Cassandra Kaufusi

Talofa Lava, Fakaalofa Lahi Atu,

I am a New Zealand born Samoan-Niuean and raised in East Auckland in the suburb of Glen Innes.

I come from the villages of Letogo, Apia in Samoa and Alofi North of Niue Island.

I come from a strong Pasifika background and appreciate the opportunity to work for an organisation that closely aligns with the values I hold very close to my heart; reciprocity, service and inclusion, respect, spirituality, leadership and family, only to name a few. As a young Pasifika woman, I have always wanted to be a part of an establishment that works with our community. I am privileged to be in a position where I can be a voice for our Pasifika people to encourage and uplift them to unleash their full potential.

It takes a village to raise a child, and I owe all of who I am today to my family. I am blessed to be made of the heart and rock of the Pacific.

Navigating two worlds, although an amazing experience, can often be challenging. I have learned to infuse the learnings from my ancestors and the modern world to allow me to live by traditional values with a contemporary execution all of which Le Va’s work incorporates.

My late Grandfather, Elipo Muliamalu Petelo Lui, taught me the value of “Alofa” (love) – which is where my love for our people derives.

My Great Grandmother, Mokalaniti Tafoulua, instilled in me the importance of being present. By being present we are able to better understand, listen, learn and appreciate. I continue to listen, I continue to learn, and I always continue to appreciate the heritage that has made me, me.

I now desire to take these learning and apply the teachings and sacrifice of the ones before me, in the hope that future generations flourish.