Voices of strength: Storytelling to uplift disabled communities

“The idea of suffering scares people, but that’s what it’s all about – you have to suffer to succeed.”
– Kauri Murray, Voices of Strength / Le’o Malohi

The premiere of documentary series ‘Voices of Strength / Le’o Mālohi’, hosted by Disability Sport Auckland, was an evening centred on the strength, voices and lived experiences of disabled people in our communities.

Natasha Barber, Ona Manu, Kauri Murray

Hosted by Disability Sport Auckland, the screening brought together whānau, community and advocates to witness something rare and precious – three people sharing their lives with honesty.

Through the stories of Kauri Murray, Ona Manu and Natasha Barber, the audience was invited into an empowering reflection on navigating work, sport, relationships and everyday life in systems not always designed with accessibility or inclusion in mind.

This was a celebration of overcoming barriers, of resilience, identity and joy, and the importance of being able to participate fully in community life.

Le Va’s Ben Tameifuna and Jasmine Leota were among those in the audience, and they left deeply moved.

“The generosity shared throughout the evening was profound,” said Ben. “Ona, Natasha and Kauri, your voices left a lasting impact on everyone in the room. Thank you for sharing your beautiful stories with such authenticity.”

A strong thread woven through the three-part documentary series was the impact of community and care. It was a celebration of the people who stand beside us, and the power of storytelling to create understanding and belonging.

The creation of ‘Voices of Strength / Le’o Mālohi’ was supported through the ‘Inasi Fund, a partnership between Le Va and Foundation North, which supports initiatives that amplify community voices and lived experience.

We are grateful to Disability Sport Auckland for creating a platform where disabled voices are celebrated through storytelling, connection and sport.

Learn more about our ‘Inasi Fund initiative: ‘Inasi Fund