For Etu Pasifika's Clinical Director, the award was an unexpected and deeply humbling recognition of a career grounded in service rather than recognition. 

“I am truly humbled and blessed to receive this award and an unexpected highlight,” she said. “When you love and do your work, it is not for the recognition but simply to serve your community and try to make a small difference each day.” 

Dr Heather credits her family, mentors and the many people who have supported and challenged her throughout her career. 

“I acknowledge my family who have always supported me, prayed for me, sacrificed for me and for the many mentors I have had along the way who encouraged me and challenged me to do better and to be better.” 

She describes the award as belonging to everyone who has been part of her journey, reflecting the Māori whakataukī: Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini — my success is not my own, but comes from many others. 

A longstanding connection with PMA 

Dr Heather’s connection with PMA stretches back to the early days of the organisation, when she attended one of its first meetings as a house surgeon at Waikato Hospital. 

After working overseas for several years, she returned to New Zealand and became increasingly involved with PMA. 

Since 2019, she has been involved with PMA’s Pacific Medical Assistance Team (PACMAT), supporting deployments across New Zealand and the Pacific. 

Her connection with Etu Pasifika Clinics began in October 2021, when she joined as a Consultant General Practitioner. She later became Clinical Director and served for five years on the PMA Membership Board. 

Dr Heather describes her time on the Board as an important part of her professional development and her introduction to Pacific governance and leadership. 

“It was the best training and introduction to Pacific governance and leadership,” she said. 

She credits the experience, training and support she received through PMA with helping build her confidence and skills in governance, while also creating lasting friendships and opportunities. 

One of her highlights has been being involved in PMA’s scholarships and conferences, supporting the development of the next generation of Pacific health professionals. 

Shaping the future of Pacific primary care 

Across her career, Dr Heather says her work has always centred on serving Pacific communities, whether in New Zealand or throughout the region. 

One of her greatest highlights has been her work with Etu Pasifika Clinics, helping to lead change for the younger generation and contributing to the development of the clinics’ model of care. 

For Dr Heather, this work is about creating an environment where every member of the team has an important role to play. 

“Working together as a team where no one is left behind and recognising that everyone in the team is a leader and has an important role to play,” she said. 

She says Etu Pasifika provides an opportunity to be innovative, celebrate Pacific uniqueness and bring the best of ourselves to work each day. 

Alongside her clinical work, Dr Heather continues to balance teaching, research and committee roles advocating for change in Pacific health. 

But PACMAT remains another particularly significant part of her journey. 

She reflects with pride on the work the team has undertaken across New Zealand and the Pacific, guided by the Samoan phrase Tautua nei mo se taeao manuia — serve today for a better tomorrow. 

Leading with resilience, humility and service 

For Dr Heather, one of the most important lessons throughout her career has been the importance of knowing where you come from. 

“It is never forgetting your roots, who we are and where we come from. Be proud of our Pacific heritage.” 

She speaks of the importance of faith, values and service, and the responsibility health professionals carry to their families and communities. 

“We carry the hopes and dreams of our families; our communities and we have an obligation to do our work to the best of our ability.” 

Her advice is also to embrace opportunities, recognising that the people and experiences encountered along the way can change the trajectory of a career in medicine. 

Challenges, she says, are inevitable — but they can also build resilience. 

Drawing on the Tongan saying Holo pe tu’u, he ko e ngalu ‘e fasi — stand firm, for the waves will break — she encourages others to remain patient and resilient during difficult times. 

“And last but most important, never forget to be kind, this goes a long way in everything you do.” 

A message for the next generation 

To the next generation of Pacific leaders, Dr Heather’s message is clear: “Never forget to remain grounded, remain humble and be an advocate, a voice for our communities.” 

She encourages young Pacific health professionals to get involved, help lead change and strengthen the organisations and communities they are part of. 

“Most of all bring your best each day to your studies or work.” 

Above all, she believes in the strength that comes from collective action and lasting relationships. 

“As a collective we are strong together – remain connected, build relationships that last a lifetime.” 

Dr Heather’s PMA Service Award celebrates a career shaped by service, leadership, advocacy and a deep commitment to Pacific communities. 

Her journey is a reminder that meaningful change is rarely achieved alone. It is built through relationships, collective strength and a willingness to serve — today, for a better tomorrow.