Connecting with Communities: Pacific Education Foundation Stakeholders & Providers Function
Last Thursday evening, the Pacific Education Foundation (PEF) hosted its first Stakeholders and Providers Event in Wellington, bringing together industry training providers, school educators and cross-government representatives to learn more about the PEF Programme and the opportunities it provides for Pasifika communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.
The event provided a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to better understand the work of PEF, ask questions of PEF Board members, and share their insights and experiences from within our communities. These conversations are an important part of ensuring the programme continues to grow and respond to the needs of the people it is here to support.
It was an insightful and successful evening, made even more meaningful by hearing from PEF alumna, Salote Tu’ungafasi, who shared her personal journey and spoke about how the PEF Programme supported and motivated her to complete her nursing degree.
“I remember the night when I received the email saying my scholarship had been approved. I remember I was struggling to finish my assignment. I was lost, unmotivated and struggling. When the PEF email came through, I couldn’t believe it. I think no one would know how much this scholarship has helped and motivated me throughout my time. It felt like I had a place to lean on, like I had someone who had my back.”
Salote’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that the right support and encouragement can have on a person’s journey. Her success is one of many stories that demonstrate the importance of investing in the aspirations and futures of our Pasifika communities.
This is only the beginning for the Pacific Education Foundation Programme. We look forward to seeing the programme continue to grow, creating more opportunities and supporting many more success stories from communities across Aotearoa.
A heartfelt thank you to the PEF Board for sharing their insights and messages, and to all our stakeholders, providers, educators and community representatives who joined us and contributed to such a meaningful evening.
