Launch of Atoatoali’o: A milestone for Pasifika tangata whaikaha and their aiga

After many months of community consultation and co-development with more than 1,000 Pacific leaders, disabled people, their aiga, carers and advocates, Le Va was proud to host the launch of Atoatoali’o – Whaikaha’s National Pacific Disability Approach on April 24.

Atoatoali’o represents hours of talanoa and contributions from Pacific communities across Aotearoa New Zealand to uplift the wellbeing goals and aspirations of Pacific disabled people and ensure their voices are heard.

From February to April 2024, Le Va and the Faiva Ora Leadership Group led a nationwide series of talanoa across Aotearoa, creating culturally grounded, safe spaces for Pacific communities to share openly and honestly.

Atoatoali’o is the result of this powerful process. It reflects the authentic voice of Pasifika disability communities capturing their lived experiences, challenges, cultural identity and hopes for a more inclusive future.

Hon Louise Upston, Minister for Disability Issues, and Paula Tesorioro, Chief Executive of Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People, were guests of honour at the launch event held at Le Va’s office in Manukau.

Minister Upston said of the event, “I was privileged to launch Atoatoali’o — the National Pacific Disability Approach — a major milestone for the community.

“The priorities from this work will help shape the refresh of the New Zealand Disability Strategy later this year.”

Denise Kingi-‘Ulu’ave, chief executive of Le Va, said, “It has been an honour for Le Va to engage with our Pacific disability communities and the wider sector around the motu, and to hear their stories of stories of strength, challenges, resilience and success.

“We are grateful for the trust Whaikaha has placed in Le Va to coordinate the talanoa series and host the launch of Atoatoali’o, with strong leadership shown by our senior manager for public health and disability – Ben Tameifuna – and his team.”

You can learn more about Atoatoali’o and download the full document at Whaikaha’s website.