"We can choose the kind of future we want to foster for our community. We can choose empathy. We can choose love, and a future where people feel that they belong," they said. 

Shaneel’s insights set the stage for a dynamic panel featuring Dr. Siale Foliaki, psychiatrist at Middlemore Hospital; Tanaki Fasi, a student at Cashmere High School; Janet Maoate-Breen, physiotherapist; and Peati Mene-Vaele, clinical psychologist at Etu Pasifika Canterbury. 

Dr. Foliaki shared valuable insights from his extensive experience as a psychiatrist, highlighting the importance of understanding mental health within a cultural context. 

Tanaki Fasi shared his struggles with navigating his Niuean heritage and New Zealand culture, detailing the mental health toll of feeling disconnected and facing bullying. He called for more efforts to normalise mental health support among Pacific youth, emphasising that "culture is important for our wellbeing and needs to be handled carefully." 

Maoate-Breen highlighted the importance of physical health, sharing her journey from basketball to physiotherapy and her commitment to educating youth on the benefits of staying active for long-term wellbeing. 

Mene-Vaele discussed Etu Pasifika Canterbury’s work in youth mental health, addressing issues like grief, family violence, and parental alcohol dependence. She emphasised the need to interpret challenges carefully to provide the right support. 

The panel spoke to the urgent need for inclusive healthcare, greater mental health awareness, and holistic support systems for Pacific youth, paving the way for healthier futures. 

The PMA Conference is taking place Tuesday 26 November – Wednesday 27 November at the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre. You can find the full programme here.  

For any media inquiries, please email communications@pmagroup.co.nz