Sonia Pope

Colossians 3:17 ‘And whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ giving thanks to God our Father through him. All praise and glory to God first and foremost.’

I am a Tongan / Niuean woman who proudly represents the villages of Tongoleleka – Ha’apai, Koulo – Ha’apai, Holonga – Vava’u, Halafo’ou – Tongatapu and Alofi North – Niue.

Appointed as project manager, my role at Le Va is to focus on youth development with current projects centred upon Pacific wellbeing, cultural identity, student success and student voice.

Prior to my role at Le Va, I was an Educational Psychologist for the Ministry of Education. My five years of experience in frontline practice grew my passion for working with young people, and I enjoyed upskilling professionals, parents, and educators on how to better support and engage with all kinds of young people.

My area of expertise and research includes and is not limited to topics of wellbeing, mental health, student success, suicidality, neurodiversity, self-care, challenging or extreme behaviours and education systems. I take pride in the talanoa I have with communities and problem solving and simplifying complex situations. I bring with me all these skills to Le Va.