In recognition of Dietitians Week NZ, we share the story of Finau Taungapea, Director of Health Services and Senior Dietitian at Pacific Trust Otago. Finau’s journey into nutrition and health promotion is deeply personal, sparked by the sudden loss of her father and her commitment to breaking the cycle of poor health in her own family.

Lilo Dr Oka Sanerivi, physiotherapist, academic, and PMA member, is the first Pacific PhD in Physiotherapy! 💥 For Men’s Health Week, he shares some light-hearted but practical insights, plus a bit of his own journey as a Pacific male in health. He is also a proud member of the Centre for Men’s Health at the University of Otago.

Talofa lava, meet Salima Dr Olataga Alofivae Doorbinnia who hails from Sa'anapu and Apolima. For Samoan Language Week, she shares her background as general practitioner living in Southwestern, Sydney.

Noa’ia ‘e Mauri, ‘Otou asa le Rowena Sokimi, faiaksea gagaj atakoa. Meet Rowena Sokimi who is of Rotuman, Fijian, Samoan and German heritage.

Solomon Islands Language Week is a timely and important occasion to celebrate the rich linguistic and cultural diversity of the Solomon Islands, and to raise awareness about the challenges of preserving native languages in an ever-changing world. Dr Maryanne One’asi Harihiru Koraa’i, a paediatrician with a special interest in paediatric cardiology, is one such advocate for preserving her heritage.

Meet Dr Whitney Ato Ruape, hailing from the beautiful island of Papua New Guinea. She is currently a Paediatric Registrar training in Goroka Provincial Hospital, located in the Eastern Highlands Province.

Meet Dr Tarucilla Tatui, Pasifika Medical Association Member and General Practitioner at Etu Pasifika South Auckland. Born and raised in Niue, hailing from the beautiful village of Fineone, Hakupu Atua, located om the southeastern side of Niue. This year for Niue Language Week, Dr Tatui shares her passion for her culture and her efforts promoting Vagahau Niue – Niuean Language.

To close Fijian Language Week, we highlight the invaluable contributions of Dr Nanise Sikiti, a dedicated consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist based at Lautoka Hospital.

In the spirit of Fiji Language Week, we celebrate the journey of Dr Silipa Naiqiso, a Gynaecological Oncologist whose roots and heart are deeply intertwined with Fiji. Based in Auckland, New Zealand, she represents the cultural heritage of her homeland while focusing on women's health and wellbeing, particularly within her Pacific community.

Meet Dr Linda Laine Elia (Dr Laine) a proud daughter of Tuvalu's stunning islands of Vaitupu and Nanumaga. Growing up surrounded by the natural beauty of her homeland, she has turned her childhood dreams into a powerful mission to improve health care for the people of Tuvalu.

As we observe Gynaecological Awareness Month (GAM), it's crucial to spotlight the voices and efforts of those dedicated to advancing women's health. Dr Amanda Noovao-Hill stands out as a prominent figure in this field, with a rich background in obstetrics and gynaecology, and a commitment to improving sexual and reproductive health across the region.

Rasela-Joy Gibson is committed to inspiring more Pacific students to pursue careers in health and to explore the diverse opportunities within physiotherapy. Hailing from Gataivai, Savaii, and Salua, Manono in Samoa, as well as Ashburton, New Zealand, she currently leads the Allied Health Inpatient Team at Kenepuru Community Hospital, Capital & Coast, and Hutt Valley.