Elizabeth Le’man is a Senior Pacific Community Health Worker of Samoan descent, working at Te Toka Tumai – Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora.
Elizabeth’s leadership legacy
I am guided by the values of tautua, respect and integrity
I see Pacific people leading the way for Pacific people
I hear the voices of my colleagues, mentors and community
I hope to inspire others to lead with humility and purpose
I try to lead by example in my workplace, supporting others to grow
I live this out by listening, mentoring others, restoring relationships
I will continue to lead with humility, serve with love, and champion Pacific leadership
I am a mother, firmly with her hand on the plough
Le Tautua will simply grow what is already within you – your courage, culture and connection.
Le Tautua provided the foundational necessities to strengthen and enhance my cultural understanding and practice, and helped me overcome the imposter syndrome I felt being surrounded by Pasifika people of calibre.
I learned that by listening deeply to people’s narratives and cultural contexts I gained an in-depth understanding of the value of both Pacific knowledge and clinical expertise.
In so many ways, my approach towards others at work is that of a servant leader. I can embrace my role with purpose, as I now have the knowledge to support colleagues in understanding our cultural values in modern day practice.
Thanks to Le Tautua, I am more confident to speak and actively participate in leadership discussions where my input is needed. I can help staff understand the importance of creating safe and inclusive spaces where Pacific families feel seen, respected and empowered.
Le Va has helped me in many ways on my leadership journey, through my leadership in health it has opened pathways to contribute to collective growth – from serving on interview panels to shaping systems and processes that strengthen equitable outcomes for our people and communities.
Alofa is at the heart of my practice and beliefs – I am a mother, grandmother, a guardian of the ‘Vā’. I have a duty to safegard people so that they feel safe and valued.
For anyone thinking about applying to Le Tautua, it is a journey that builds lifelong networks, connecting you to mentors, colleagues and community leaders.
Believe that you belong there, trust your voice, values and contribution in spaces of leadership and decision-making.
Le Tautua will simply grow what is already within you – your courage, culture and connection.
Ma la’u fa’aloalo lava, fa’afetai tele Le Va for the opportunity to hold steadfast to my learnings. Through the Le Tautua programme, I have identified my calling – a servant leader.
