Southern Community of Practice brings Pacific stories to life

On 21 May, Pacific Access & Choice providers from across the Southern region gathered in Ōtepoti Dunedin for a primary mental health and addiction workforce Community of Practice (CoP), creating space for connection, shared learning and reflection.

A highlight of the day was hearing from Pacific Trust Otago (PTO) founders Keni Moeroa and Maria Lucas, who shared the story of how PTO came to be.

Through talanoa and storytelling, participants gained insight into the many years of volunteering, community advocacy, relationship building, and quiet determination that helped establish and grow Pacific wellbeing services in Otago.

Keni and Maria painted a vivid picture of a time when resources were scarce, but the freedom to innovate and respond to the needs of Pacific communities was real.

They spoke about the power of working collectively, building trust, and ensuring representation reflected the full diversity of Pacific ethnic groups across the southernmost regions of Te Waipounamu.

For many in the room, the talanoa offered something that isn’t always captured in reports or organisational profiles. It gave a rich understanding of the relationships, community leadership and dedication that helped shape PTO and still influence its work today.

The day also included a hands-on sensory modulation workshop facilitated by the Pacific Island Advisory Charitable Trust (PIACT), giving participants practical tools and strategies to support emotional regulation and wellbeing. The session sparked rich discussion about how sensory approaches can be applied within Pacific primary mental health and addiction settings.

The whole event was a reminder of the unique value of Communities of Practice. Beyond sharing knowledge and resources, they create space to hear the stories that are often untold, to learn from those who have paved the way, and deepen our understanding of other organisations and ways of working.

As Pacific primary mental health and addiction providers across the South continue serving our communities, stories like those shared by Keni and Maria highlight the importance of connection, service and collective effort in building something that lasts.