National Shake Out Earthquake & Tsunami drill...

 

I've been so busy lately that was just reminded that tomorrow is our National Earthquake and Tsunami drill.

This year, I've registered and will take part with my family to also consider what our Emergency plan would be too i.e. better to be prepared than not.

Tomorrow the drill will be enacted by mostly schools and organisations nationwide but individuals, families, and other groups can also register and join in. The idea is that at 9.30am everyone drops, covers and holds and then considers what other preparations need to be made and kept in mind.

It's called the nation 'Shake out' and all are encouraged to have an emergency plan and to check out what potential natural threats you might have close by eg. Tsunami for those close to open waters, Earthquakes (NZ on Pacific Fire Rim) etc...

Books as special wedding gifts...

Last weekend, two of my former students who were a couple were getting married and asked after some of my books as gifts for some special family members.

It was a real honour and privilege to be asked of this for their special day and I obliged willingly. As I must say that I've had a few couples come through my class as part of their learning journey together as a couple which has been a really neat.

The pics you see are bundles of books that I had made up for them and you are most welcome to contact me if you are interested in any book bundles too.

I'm also looking forward to the end of the year as I have some new titles being released and looking forward to seeing how they are received.

I've also been very encouraged by such requests as it reminds me that these ancient Samoan stories are still relevant today as they were when they were first being told. As there are a lot of information that's shared when these stories are brought to life through books or theatre (films & plays)...
 

Latch-hooking break from academia...

 

One of the neat things that's been keeping me busy and connected with my artsy side has been latch-hooking with a kit that I picked up not so long ago.

It was real helpful for my thesis writing too as it's a creative practice-led thesis that allowed me to add in pics and ideas from some of my art work then when it got too wordy and I wanted to take a break from academia I started hooking this rug.

I started this artform back in my late teens early 20s but it was quite expensive to do back then as the kits were coming from abroad and I only had a big rug that I've kept for ages.

Since then, I've hooked a cushion cover, another two smaller rugs and am going for another cushion cover that I'll be giving away as gifts for some unsuspecting family member who would appreciate the time and effort put into these works of art.

It's definitely not something that I see a lot of people doing as it's not as accessible but there are definitely more kits at affordable prices these days. It's also good for one's mental health in creating an artistic piece from a different type of medium that's not so commonplace...

Anticipating WIPCE 2025 Nov...

I'm so looking forward to the WIPCE World Indigenous Peoples Conference of Education for 2025 that's taking place in Auckland next year.

It has one of my fave academics who will be one of the keynote guest speakers whom I've been following over the years regarding indigenous education and research.

Her name is: Prof. Linda Tuhiwai Smith and she has received awards for her groundbreaking work on Indigenous research and has made a lot of positive in our indigenous communities and western university institutes.

She's challenged research paradigms and has been pivotal as one of many pioneers of encouraging Māori language medium schools to thrive throughout New Zealand as prior to the year 2000 there were few and far between indigenous Māori schools in the nation. 

Now there are many throughout the nation and that's so encouraging for the Māori language to continue to grow. It also encourages 'Indigenous Research' to take place as a very different way of finding out new information...

Just "Own it!"...

 

During the weekend noho (overnight stay) of two nights with my cohort of post grad' students, my colleague asked us all to pick a card from her pack of inspirational sayings and I picked "Own it".

This was quite fun because there's so much I've been through in the last few years that there's nothing left to do except to 'own it'. I interpret that as the way one talks, and walks, thinks and sings.

Your swagger (if that's how you rock) and they way you move your hips (if that's how you roll). It was just funny to pick out this card as I'm also there now in getting my thesis ready to roll out the door.

Sayings like this are encouraging because it reminds me that we don't have to be like everybody else but can be our authentic selves without having to compromise to be who anyone else wants you to be. 

I've gotta say that especially in reaching over 50s, it's my perogative to enjoy life without worrying about what anyone else thinks and encouraging women in similar situations to just enjoy the freedom of 'owning it!'. To be unapologetically me...

Manawa Bay Parking exclusivity not inclusivity...

 

This weekend, I got to have a look at the opening of Manawa Bay Outlets stores during its opening week with their specials. The car parking was free for the first four days and then it reverts to paid parking.

I was honestly surprised. I've been to big stores in different parts of the world, most recently in Melbourne, and to find out that there was paid parking was alarming. 

As a social Geographer (from back in the day) such ploys made by businesses could be seen as a way of excluding certain peoples from shopping there i.e. the locals as it is situated near a lower socio-economic location.

It makes me wonder why they used a Māori word in their naming of the Shopping outlet centre. They should have just used an English word because when using a Māori word there are certain esoteric values that go with using that language. They should have just named it 'Heart' instead.

I guess it concerns me because there are a lot of Māori and Pasifika people who live nearby and I read this as a hostile move by the powers that be to exclude certain people from the local community from shopping there. I mean why else would they make such a bold move in a time of a socio-economic crisis (still in NZ).

Or are they chasing after the mighty dollar of overseas tourists and don't really care about the local community. It just reads as privilege and discrimination and yes, I'm a local who won't be shopping there either. I'd also encourage other locals who have the monetary discretion to refrain from shopping there also. 

Obviously, they don't need our money and they don't want to be inclusive so I'd rather take my discretionary monies elsewhere and if you feel the same spread the word. There are just some people who are about elitism and not inclusivity....

New Post-graduate Office space at TWOA...

 

Here's a pic of my work desk moved into our newly refurbished Post-Graduate office here at TWOA Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. Loving the new space and looking forward to the window treatments to come.

I'm all for windows in any rooms that I occupy as I've been in teaching classrooms where there are no windows and it's just not the same.

I also like a bright and airy room with lots of space as I've also been in cramped working conditions with offices spaces where people are almost on top of each other. Definitely not cool!

As you can see, the first thing I put up after sorting out the desk were the artworks. I've got my lil' sister's art piece that she created for me last Christmas which was such a joy and also smaller art canvases that I painted a while back.

Having double screens is a real plus too because I can work on my documents and also check on my emails and multiple other sites too. So I guess I'm not so minimalist as some people are in there workspace. I'm definitely all for making the space mine i.e. you can tell it's mine with all the artworks around and almost always a lot of colour i.e. that's my bright Samoan side :)...

"Heartbreak Anniversary" song by Giveon...

 

I heard this song on the radio and thought I hadn't heard this tone before. It's a song about heartbreak, and it's around three years old, but I still thought I would share it, especially for those going through difficulties with relationships at this time.

I also heard the radio announcer speak on the artist's name, Giveon. She said that when he was named, his mother chose it for the purpose that he would "give," and he's definitely lived up to his name with this song.

I also found it really interesting with his music video setting that apart from the bedroom setting, the music video looks like it's set in an urban industrial area where there's a lot of barrenness in terms of greenery and I guess that echoes the barrenness in his soul...

"Mini Challenge" changing lives...

 

Have you ever had an unexpected conversation that changed the trajectory of your life? That happened to me almost 10 years ago, on January 23rd, 2015. 

I had a conversation with a business mentor called Maria and it was my sister Maria's birthday. The conversation was only supposed to take a 30 minutes but a couple of hours later I walked out with a plan in my mind and determined to make my dream come true in throwing caution to the wind and self-publishing my first book.

It was a 'mini-challenge' but it had an astronomical effect on me and it cut through all of the years of self doubt and considerations that had held me back for years. In fact, it's hard to believe that I'm coming up to the 10th anniversary since self-publishing that first book.

I blogged about it, at the time, because three months later, I launched my first book of the bilingual picture book series called "Samoan Origins series". Now I've published 20 books in several genre of: bilingual picture books, poetry, short stories, plays, non-fiction and now I'm considering novels.

My first book sold out twice with the small print runs that I started and on its 10th Anniversary next year in March, I'm looking to re-launch it again using markers as the art medium. The book itself is the most popular in the series and its been distributed all over the world in University libraries and in local community libraries and with families too.

As I move into completing my thesis, I'm interested in moving into a new space in supporting and coaching other women of colour to throw caution to the wind and go for their dreams. If this sounds like you and you'd like to consider me as your coach then drop me an email for a free "discovery session" via a virtual meeting and we can go from there.

At this stage, I want to grow it organically and am not interested in putting out ads. I believe that if you've been reading my ad-free blog over time, you probably understand what I'm about and my interests in supporting people in my teaching, and with friends and family.

If you think this is for you? then email me on: helenftauau@gmail.com and we'll go from there. The graphic that this blog leads with is some artwork that I'm considering for the virtual coaching platform and I'm using with my maiden name in honouring my late father who was my first mentor and believed that I could achieve anything I put my mind to...

New Māori Queen ushers in great expectations...

 

Yesterday, at the tangihanga or funeral of the late Māori King, Te Arikinui, Kīngi Tuheitea Pōtatau te Wherowhero VII before he was laid to rest atop Taupiri maunga (mountain), it was interesting to note that he was taken by a flotilla of Māori waka or canoes to the maunga.

It would have been such an amazing experience to observe this occasion and I learned that some of my students and colleagues were going with their families to be present at the tangi or funeral.

It was also interesting to note that upon the passing of the King that an announcement was made by the Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage that all New Zealand flags be flown at half mast until the day of his funeral which was yesterday.

I remember over the last few years of teaching tikanga (Māori cultural practices and protocols) I learned more about the Kingitanga movement and the prospects of who might become the next successor with many believing that it would be his youngest daughter and not her two elder brothers. Now she has rightfully been honoured by the privilege yet saddened in the passing of her father.

The new Māori queen has been given the title of: Ngā Wai hono i te Pō it's an interesting name and would have been given after much deliberation. She is second to the only other Māori Queen who was her grandmother.

At 27 years old, she has a lot of expectations to meet as her late father and Māori King was seen as a person of kotahitanga (bringing together as one). He earlier invited iwi (tribes) to come together for discussions at his Marae of Turangawaewae in Ngāruawahia.

This was especially in the wake of the new coalition government's policies that have been confronting to Māori and many people who have lost jobs, or had their government jobs restructured under the tight economic squeeze of this present government's fiscal belt tightening. This comes at a time when NZ's unemployment rate has soared with new government policies.

We wish her well, as this will not be an easy time to ascend as a young Māori women steeped in tikanga of which she has a Masters degree with the expectations of many for her to rein similarly to her paternal late grandmother and late father.

Aotearoa New Zealand now ushers in a new monarch, although not constitutionally recognized, she still holds great mana (esoteric power) and prestige in her position. I believe that she will carry her role with dignity and the high expectations of her people in this post-modern age...

"The Forge" recommended movie for men...

 

I'm loving this first official week of Spring as the mornings are lighter and the days stretch out into the night. During the week, I got to watch the movie "The Forge" and would highly recommend it, especially for men. It is a faith based movie with some good wisdom for our times.

I've always enjoyed viewing the Kendrick brothers films, over the years, ranging from: Fireproof (2008), Courageous (2011), War Room (2015), Overcomer (2019) which is currently on Netflix and their current offering.

No spoiler alerts here, except to encourage mom's to take their sons, women to take their partner / husband, young women to take their boyfriend / fiance and especially for young men to see. I think it's particularly hard for women to understand the battles that men face on a daily basis and it's better for men to tell men how to be good men...

Upcoming Ah Siu Family Reunion in Samoa...

 

This year, I'm looking forward to attending our Ah Siu Reunion which is set for 19 - 22 December in Samoa at a Marist Brothers school with details still to be confirmed.

It will be our second reunion but already there are many who won't be attending as it was just announced around April but many had already made travel plans with families a year ahead.

Last week, I was asked to be a guest speaker at a class at our neighbouring Wānanga (that I happen to be a student at) called Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi translated as the house of higher learning of Awanuiārangi.

The class was a Zoom class and there were about 20 adult students attending. My topic was on genealogy and indigenous research methods and I shared my story about my search over 30 years on my family tree.

In starting with only knowing the names of 1:16 of my great, great grandparents and now I know 10 of them. The pic on the left is a pic that I just recently found that was shared on a family reunion Facebook page. It's a pic of my great, great grandmother Asia Ah Siu who was married in an immigrant to Samoa from Shanghai, China named Shing Ah Siu.

It was really interesting because in joining the first Family Reunion, I was able to find out so much information about her and her husband and the homestead that they had in Samoa which is still standing and I hope to be able to visit the grave sites of my ancestors as well as the places of significance.

Interestingly enough, their eldest son was named Aialaisa George Ah Siu and he was the eldest of the children. His daughter was my grandmother and she was named after her grandmother Asia and my brother, George, was named after our great, grandfather, in his memory.

I'm quite looking forward to the Family Reunion, as I'm hoping to learn more about my ancestors and the lands they were guardians of and lived upon. I did stay in Matāutu, near Apia in 1989, with my grandmother and got to safe on our ancestral lands there at my great, grand uncle Paulo's house. He was my great-grandfather's brother and the last of his generation...

Happy Father's day in commemoration of my hero, my late father...

This Father's Day, I commemorate my hero and late father Faalavaau Aiolupo Fasavalu Uilitone Tauau. He's my role model who taught me many things about life not only in fa'aSamoa but also about living an authentic Christian life and caring.

Today as I went on my usual weekend 5km walk, I walked past a car that was parked outside a home and the lady that was standing beside the car asked me to stop. I turned around and she recognized me as her English teacher when she was a teenager many moons ago. It was such a lovely reminder of making a positive impression that she stopped me to tell me.

It reminded me of my dad whom I thought was very strict, growing up, but now I realize that he was trying to protect me from the unsavoury things of this world that are harmful (including people). He taught me about what's good and healthy and strong and I'll always be thankful and grateful to God for giving me such a dad as he was to me.

In fact, we went over today to visit his grave as many families were visiting their loved ones, with three generations including my mum, myself, my sister and youngest. We remembered the great times we had together. It didn't mean that he was perfect but the memories we had of him were perfect, lighthearted and beautiful.

To all those beautiful dads out there who love their children before themselves and who often sacrifice for their childrens' dreams and just love on them, I wish you the best. There are some uncommon men out there who I've been told are great men (in the words of Steve Harvey) "they love their wife and take care of their children". They love with unconditional love and they inspire people to do good in their own humility. 

Those are the men that aren't intimidated by their wife's success and encourage their children to live out their dreams and when they are older, their wife/partner and children want to be around them as well as their grandchildren. These are the uncommon men who other men strive to be like and I'm glad I got to meet my dad, my hero in life (of course my mother is my heroine)...

The passing of the King (Māori)...

 

Yesterday, it was announced all over the news that King Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII had died at the age of 69 years.

I acknowledge the special legacy that he came from as a King who was gracious and often unassuming, however, he leaves a legacy behind of a King who cared for his people.

He is indeed a King for all of NZ, however, not all Māori tribes subscribe to him as their king and not all New Zealanders are aware of him or if they do, they see him as the Māori king as seen in this news clip from RNZ (Radio New Zealand). 

It is a sad day for New Zealand and especially for the Kingitanga, a movement that was grown out of the the 1950s as a answer to lots of land being taken from Maori (mostly illegally) and then resold to Europeans and other immigrants so much so that Māori own only 10% of New Zealand's land to date.

There have been tributes pouring in from all over New Zealand and all over the world from many nations who recognize his sovereign state as King as his mother was also known as a gracious Queen when he succeeded her.

According to the news, he is lying in state at the Kingitanga marae at Nguruawahia where only two weeks ago, he was at the celebrations of his coronation or Koroneihana. Many will be visiting his tangihanga or paying their respects for his passing before his burial on Thursday.

I visited the marae (or meeting house) called Turangawaewae Marae and observed a Koroneihana one year with a group of kaiako or teachers and students. At the time there were many speeches and singing waiata (Māori songs) and they catered for everyone there.

This time around it will be a massive undertaking with so many tribes and people paying their last respects to him i.e. NZ's politicians and Indigenous leaders from Pacific nations arriving to pay their last respects. There has also been speculation as to who will succeed him, which is a discussion for the leaders to make. 

There is a Maori proverb or whakatauki that when translated says that a mighty tree has fallen in the realm of Tane (god of the forest). It reminds me of a similar Samoan alaga upu or proverbial saying which says the heart and the earth weep at the passing of a beloved chief or leader...

Neat new Cafe & Eatery "The Gaff" with eldest...

 

Had a neat lunch with my eldest yesterday as she took me to a newish local Cafe and Eatery called "The Gaff" in Māngere Bridge, a 5 - 10 minute drive from home.

My eldest ordered our food, after we made our choices. I have to say that it was the first time I'd tried 'Camomile tea' (my eldest's choice for me) which I think doesn't stand a chance next to my usual 'Green tea' option but it wasn't too bad either.

She told me that there was information on the history of the place and that the concept for the name 'The Gaff' came from England which means a person's home.

What's neat is that I watched the conversion (over a few years) of what I thought was a early 1900s old colonial styled home into a Cafe complete with settings to eat outside, inside, and on the landing around the skirting of the house. There's even a little play house for the littlies to run around and climb up.

The menu was superb and made with love! as we ordered a steak sandwich, chicken burger and a sweet 'n savour dessert made of waffle, edible flowers, meats, banana and maple syrup. I loved the way that the plating was set up with rich colours especially for the waffle.

You'd have to taste it to believe it! as it definitely wasn't something that I would have tried by my eldest is quite daring in her palette choices plus she's gymming almost everyday so I threw caution to the wind and enjoyed it too :)

It's safe to say that I would highly recommend this Cafe and Eatery to any as there were so many people there having lunch when we were there and I would definitely recommend the outside setting too complete with overhead umbrellas where we were seated.

The prices were definitely reasonable given the amount of care and love that went into the cooking and plating up of the food that we ordered. I like that it was very diverse in it's clientele with corporate groups, friends and locals attending and I think I'll definitely be making my way there again...

New sounds "Hinamoeaki"...

 I heard my lil' sister listening to this song that she had heard/seen on TikTok. It was the first time that I'd heard it and thought that some of the words were definitely from our Poly languages it's from French Polynesia. 

I've had the blessings of having travelling to the Cook Islands, Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji, American Samoa and Tonga (but didn't venture out of the airport - does that count? :) all with their own unique sounds, traditional dance music and songs, dance costumes etc.

In my youth (not as much these days) I've danced traditional Niuean, Cook Islands drum dances, Samoa siva and tried the Hawaiian hula and Tahitian drum dance and just love the sounds. So when I listened to this song that was released this last year, it was neat to listen to but not so sure of the lyrics although some of the words have a Pasifika or Poly sound...

"Die with a Smile", new song by Bruno Mars & Lady Gaga...

 

When I first heard this song by Bruno Mars & Lady Gaga, I had to stop and listen as it carried a very interesting tune. Then I listened to the lyrics and thought - Wow! then when my eldest pulled in her car on the weekend to go out, she had this song playing on full blast.

I laughed as I thought to myself that great minds think alike (of course she is my child and I'd say that) then the next day after we watched a movie she drove me (she likes driving me around now) and we had it on full blast and took the scenic route whilst listening a couple of times to the song.

I guess we're both 'hopeless romantics' and have similar tastes in music although mine spans back to the 70s with a little wider repertoire of genres of music and eclectic going back to my classical piano training and taking music in high school and that I took piano exams but that's a whole other story.

Suffice to say that if you haven't heard this ballard then I'd highly recommend it. I've got it on repeat in my head and on YouTube it has already had over 10 million views from over the weekend. This could be the big hit of the year!

Anyway, see what you think as I really like how Bruno's smooth vocals blends in well with Lady Gaga's edgey tones. Simply beautiful - like my feedback on their official music video site. I had to laugh when I saw their Cowboy/Cowgirl costumes as it just gave it that interesting vibe. Enjoy!...

"It Ends with us" movie - domestic violence is not okay!...

 

Had a great day yesterday spent with my elder two: firstly joining me at our local youth White Sunday morning service at church which brought back a lot of memories of my early forays into writing productions for Christmas, creative dances, choir singing etc.

The church is definitely a place that a lot of artists have been able to develop their talents through music production, singing, performing on a stage and acting including myself.

After having lunch together I had a nap after spending some time on my thesis. Into the evening we decided to go to watch a movie encouraged by my eldest. It was an interesting to watch with them as it tackled the topic of domestic violence that can be both physical and psychological. The movie was called "Ends with us".

After the movie we went out for a bite to eat and reflected on the movie in which a (spoiler alert!) spouse is beaten up by her husband and then her daughter goes through domestic violence as well with her new spouse. She has a daughter but then decides that she doesn't want that life to continue and divorces him unlike her mother who stayed in the abusive marriage until his death. 

It was an interesting movie as we women know lots of women who have gone through domestic violence whether it's physical or psychological and then find it hard to understand why they stay together. It's definitely something that's been on my radar as I've watched lots of friends and family go through it with different outcomes. We had a dinner conversation about it in my not ever wanting any of my children to go through life in domestic violence - physical and/or psychological.

I believe that safety for women is important (or men if the shoe is on the other foot - so to speak). Often it's hidden and the perpetrator tries to either pretend it never happened by not speaking about it  or cos it's a power play tries to normalize it and make it the victim's fault i.e in denial and not getting help. It can get real nasty, as I've seen and leaving the perpetrator is the only way forward to see if things can be resolved or to end it like in the movie.

The movies' main character showed resolve as it does take courage and consideration for the families involved but at the end "It ends with us" is a call to action for women (and men who are experiencing it) to end this type of violation that treats individuals as if they have less worth or value. To call out the perpetrators to get help through therapy or speaking a men's group to be accountable and never go back to normalizing domestic violence as it's not normal and it's not okay!...

Borderlands movie...

 Watched the Borderlands movie last night and it was better than I had expected as it had action (plenty of it) and an interesting storyline and backstory that has a climatic twist at the end. It was also interesting to see Australian actress, Cate Blanchett, in the role of a bounty hunter which was very different from her earlier roles, i.e. Lord of the Rings, Thor Ragnarok, The Curious case of Benjamin Button etc.

It was interesting to also see comedian Kevin Hart playing the role of a supporting actor and in the action of a soldier and he plays the role very credibly as well. Then to add well known seasoned actress Jamie Lee Curtis to the mix and young actress Ariana Greenblatt then you have an interesting treatment.

No spoiler alerts as in making a choice between Deadpool & Wolverine and this movie, I think this movie would fare better as one is not always impressed with the lengths to which the character Deadpool goes to in order to get a laugh...

Manawa Bay new Outlet store coming soon...

 

A big congratulations to my middle child who will be working at the new Mānawa Bay Outlet store that opens up near Auckland International Airport, in Māngere on 19th September, next month.

It was really interesting to note that we had driven past the location last month and I had wondered out loud what the construction was about.

I've since learned that the new construction boasts being a new shopping experience with over 100+ Outlet stores and new eateries experiences. It's only 5 minutes away from Auckland Airport and easy to drive to with rail links to hook up at some time and with parks galore for those driving there.

I'm very interested in how many of us locals weren't even aware of it as its nestled close to the Airport on land that was formerly a Golf course that has now been shortened to allow for this new development from the Airport Group.

I'm also interested in that it's supposed to be bringing in at least 500 new jobs to the area with the opening of this new adventure. Too bad it doesn't have a cinema setting or offering a two storeyed experience. However, it does say that there will be alfresco seating for dining.

I'm looking forward to seeing what it entails as I live and work not so far from it. I also look forward to the new experiences that my child will have there and especially that it was relatively new with plenty of potential for it to take off...

Spring is on the way...

 

I took this picture today when I was going for my usual 5km walk in an hour. I loved seeing the three different trees juxtaposed together.

There is a palm tree on the left (I'm not so sure of the one on the right—deciduous tree?) and a pink flowering magnolia in the bottom middle.

It's getting warmer and I can feel Spring coming a lot earlier with the sun waking up earlier in the mornings with earlier sunrises.

Spring's my favourite season (my birthday's in late Spring) so can't help getting excited for the new season ahead which is not until next month.

Have got some goals that I'm trying to meet so looking forward to the end of the year too with a family trip going to Samoa before Christmas for our Ah Siu family reunion which is my late father's great grandfather Sing Ah Siu from Southern China as we know.

So looking forward to that too but in the meantime we're over 60% of the year already completed and now only around 4 months to go before Christmas and the end of the year. As they say, so much to do but so little time. Definitely putting the hand to the plow and going to make it all happen with God's blessings...

Zoom class and upcoming conference...

 

Last night, I had another online class with my student. I'm definitely blessed to be living at an age where my students can Zoom in from all parts of Aotearoa, NZ.

I have students living up North near remote areas that do have WiFi and then I also have others living in the deep South Island of the country.

But what brings us together every Tuesday night is the camaraderie of working as a class on various engaging and challenging assessments for the Post Graduate Diploma.

The cover pic on the left is the cover that was used for the conference publication of last year's speakers. There are usually two classes of at least 15 students each and their end of year project is to present a 20 minute end-of-year presentation as a culmination of their year's work.

I've had the privilege of working in this space for only a short time but have been quite impressed by the level of skills and consideration that went into writing the curriculum. 

The other neat thing is that the course that I taught for the past few years on tikanga Māori or customary practices and traditions has been very helpful in supporting the teaching and learning of my class. Being able to support students in learning ways of validating indigenous knowledge and learning about ancestral principles and values has been a blessing.

Looking forward to our end-of-year conference on 1 - 2 November and getting my students ready for their presentations. It's quite exciting but a little daunting for some as it's the first time that they would have presented at a conference. 

I remember my first time, in the 1990's presenting a Pasifika play that got accepted at a Conference in Auckland and I had fun as the writer and actor in the play as well. It was a group of us youth, at the time, and one of the actors in my play went on to become a TV host and is still doing today...

Pink magnolias, placentas and land...

 

It's been some 21 years since I first planted this pink magnolia outside our house. Buried beneath it is the placenta of our eldest which is a cultural practice that was lost when many Pasifika people first came to NZ and hospital nurses would take them to be destroyed.

Nowadays, it's common practice for Indigenous women to ask for them, often to take to places where they will be buried. For some Maori women it's about take it back to their whenua (land) where they are from or like me it is buried where they now call home.

I know that this used to be a common practice in Samoa many, many years ago. I don't hear about it often but I do know that the word fanua (land) in Samoan is that same as the word for placenta which is also fanua. This is similar in the Maori te reo (language) in which they are the same word with a different meaning i.e. homonyms. (I can't help it as I used to be a high school English teacher).

It was interesting because last week, I went driving with my children and my eldest saw a beautiful large tree with large pink flowers from a distance that we were driving towards. I reminded her that it was the pink magnolia tree that we had outside our house and that her placenta had been buried under that she had quite forgotten about. 

I then reminded her of the pink cherry blossom tree and the red camellia tree that also had placentas of my other two children buried beneath them. It was good to talk about as now that two of them are adults with one still at high school, it will be a cultural practice that they can decide to do with their families with the understanding of the important unbreakable bond, of old, between the whenua, fanua, land and the placenta of people...

Creativity in teaching and learning...

 

One of the things that I did do on the weekend noho (Māori word for stay or overnight stay) with my class was to attend a workshop using clay and modeling clay.

I had a lot of fun but decided to just take it easy and make some cute artistic art i.e. the letter "H" and a music clef symbol, a small worm-like creature and a footprint.

It's a great idea by a colleague of mine who also teaches the same course i.e. two classes. Having creative activities is definitely relaxing and a great de-stressor as well.

Definitely something that I didn't have as an option in my degrees albeit undergraduate or post-graduate. But with our classes, it has been a welcome relief. Having creative activities offers problem-solving scenarios too and measurement, decision making and satisfaction of finishing or something creating something unexpected...

Kelly Tarlton's Sealife...

My Young-guns at Kelly Tartlon's

Yesterday, went with my young-guns to Kelly Tarlton's (like Sea-world underground) and had a good time looking around at the different exhibits.

The pic is taken at a replica of a replica of Scott's Hut as one of the first British expeditions to Antarctica. It was interesting to view as I hadn't been there since the elder two were very young.

It was interesting to also view the Emperor penguins but having watched a lot of different documentaries and movies about animals and birds in captivity, I couldn't help feeling sad for them especially in the small spaces that they occupied.

However, with the viewing of stingrays and varieties of fish swimming above us in the dome-shaped glass viewing areas, it was quite fun to watch as they swum above us.

 Afterwards, we had a look at the gift shop and I couldn't help buying souvenir turtle earrings, a cup and a souvenir for my youngest.

There were a lot of exhibitions to view but we did miss out on the virtual eye mask as there wasn't enough time before it was to close. All in all, highly recommended for children and those who are interested in viewing sea life up close and person...
 

An article reminding of celebrating 10 years as a Pasifika writer in 2025...

 

I had an interesting surprise this morning when I was searching for information and came across an article, written in 2015, when I first started self-publishing my books almost 10 years ago (I've attached on the left) and can be found on: https://www.usp.ac.fj/library/wp-content/uploads/sites/33/2021/05/PaCfika_Sept_2015.pdf

It was found on an online article for an online and physical newsletter called "Pasifika Libraries" Vol. 11, No. 3 which was associated with USP University of the South Pacific and published in Fiji.

It's such a timely article to read as next year I will be celebrating my 10th anniversary of being a self-published author and will be re-launching some former titles that have been sold out for a time as a fresh updated version for new readers.

It was especially touching as it was an article about the plays that I had written that had been performed at various South Auckland High schools that I had been associated with at the time.

It's hard to believe where the journey has taken me of being a Pasifika albeit Samoan NZ female writer especially in that I never thought it could be possible when I was a creative writer at High school. With my books in libraries and universities around the world (earlier blogging articles) it has simply been a blessing and a humbling experience.

Now I'm teaching / lecturing and supporting other adult students to write their indigenous stories through essays, presentations and critical reflections using APA Referencing (7th edition) ha ha ha. Yes, formal writings in order to gain their Post-Graduate qualifications in Bicultural Professional Supervision at our local Wānanga or Māori Indigenous Educational Institute for Higher learning (similar to a Community College or University).

I'm also considering to start coaching and developing some online courses for those overseas who might be interested in being supported in goal setting and particularly in achieving those goals. Over the years I've mentored many students and family members into achieving goals and reaching their (often hidden) potential.

Looking forward to the celebration next year for 10 years of publishing and beyond...

Dreams can come true...

This weekend, I spent it with my class and we had the privilege of having one of my former students be a guest speaker to talk about her journey.

From her initial studies (of two years with me) in the Cert. in Indigenous Studies, in 2017, then in the following year with the Cert. in Tikanga i.e. Te Kunenga o te Ao Tikanga, both level 4 programmes.

She then continued her studies with two other important papers before continuing in her studies in the Applied Masters in Indigenous Studies, of which she completed successfully and is now working on her Ph.D. studies.

It's such a blessing to have witnessed her journey and to have been there at the beginning of her journey at Te Wananga o Aotearoa, was a real privilege. So when she spoke to my students it was a true inspiration that dreams can come true with a love for God, a good work ethic, love and respect for parents and family, and caring for others.

I was especially touched as, like me, she looked after her older aged parents until their passing and it was a bittersweet sacrifice in spending time with them in their twilight years until they passed. Now she is working for an organization where she is able to support many others in her line of work. Yes, dreams can come true.

Josh Tatofi's latest Samoan release...

Just listened to Josh Tatofi's new release a couple of days ago called "Le Tu'una Oe". Really interesting as a Tongan artist living in Hawaii and singing a Samoan song. Gotta give it to him for singing this beautiful song.

It's a love song about a couple who are together but there's no commitment yet as one is asking (not sure if it's rhetorical) if they would turn their back or if the person is on the other's mind and wants to hug to keep the memory. It feels like the love is one-sided at this stage.

I found it interesting to hear his group sing the word "sogi" because it's an old Samoan word that you don't hear often. As it's similar to the Māori word "hogi" which is the touching or pressing of the noses which Māori still practice with their greetings (although sometimes people choose to hug instead).

I've also practiced it on many of the Marae or hui (meetings) that I've attended with Māori present but it's a cultural practice that Samoans no longer practice. Some people say that the word is equivalent to kiss but it isn't really.

 

Creative HQ...

 

Had another great day with Creative HQ coaches for my PD Profession Development at Parnell, Central Auckland. Again, it is a real privilege to be with inspired and aspiring people.

The business company has been around for about 20 years, I've been told and their very state of the arts type of information tech business with link and have partnerships with NZ government other innovative enterprises and then with the likes of people like us.

It's a really interesting space to be as I'm in a group of 17 of us who are looking at Innovate ways of problem solving a case-study type of setting.

I'm totally inspired and it's given me time and resources to journey together with other like-minded people. The only problem is that I've got a well-overdue thesis that's supposed to be handed in very soon and then this amazing opportunity came along.

It's just simply a blessing as it wasn't something that I was out looking for but they hand-picked a group of us to go through their amazing programme and wow! simply blessed! as it's given me time to consider what the future might look like in the things that I'm aiming for.

Just an incredible space to be in as we have one more major full-day professional development and will then continue on with the coaching. Later on, I'll be having a look at some of the AI Artificial Intelligence or large language models to utilize and considerations for a revamp of my Social media. 

So much to do but so little time...

A.R.T. sings Song on Radio with some Samoan lyrics...

I first heard this song on MaiFM (88.6 FM) a couple of months ago and thought to give it a shout-out as it's by a NZ (Pasifika) Girl Group called A.R.T. I don't know much about the group but I like their sound and harmonies.

Especially the Samoan lyrics too! it's great to hear my language belted out on a contemporary Māori Radio station which a lot of youth listen to but also normalizes other Pasifika languages as another indigenous language that's being spoken in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

I've also heard their other song W.T.F. (yes, you heard it right). I probably hasn't had much traction because of what the acronym stands for but I still like the harmonies. I just wish they could get a bigger budget to give them some stage presence as the video was shot in the recording studio.

All in all, a real fine effort and enjoying their sounds. I hope they continue to put out more music and neat music videos that will encourage and inspire other Pasifika musicians and singer/songwriters to give it a go as you never know what could happen if you put your dreams and goals into action!...

Treasure Island mini-golf...

Had a great afternoon at our local Treasure Island mini-golf with my three in taking out some time to spend with my youngest in starting back on the second half of the year at school tomorrow.

So the four of us took to the 18-hole mini-golf course that was spread around the Treasure Island golf course complete with a half-sunken ship, cave, etc. that took us up and down the course.

Funnily enough, I had bragging rights for the rest of the night with the least amount of swings. My team also won as we had paired up.

All in all, it was a neat evening and without a drop of rain that was threatening to fall throughout the cloudy evening. We all really enjoyed it and have decided to have another go at another mini-golf course.

Afterwards, we decided to go out to our local family restaurant to have a light meal and dessert to top off the night. I did take some time for the waitress to take our order but glad to have had some time together as a family...

 

Watching "A Quiet Place: Day One"...

 I'm a bit of a movie buff and enjoy watching various genre of movies and as it's the last week of the holidays, I asked my youngest what movie she would like to watch with me and she suggested for us to watch "A Quiet Place: Day One".

Now, I've watched the first two movies in the "A Quiet Place" franchise and found it very interesting especially with Emily Blunt as the main actress and the family dynamics in having a character, who is deaf, in the movie.

It's not my usual genre of movie but the general story has elements of suspense and quite a thriller as well. I found in parts that the movie theatre patrons were painfully quiet as many enacted the expectations of keeping quiet whilst the enemy monster was lurking around in corners like the movie.

For this particular movie, it was interesting in viewing African actress Lupita Ngony'o play the main character in a mainstream franchise. She did it particularly well and her Joseph Quinn who played the supporting actor made it an interesting dynamic portraying feelings of fear, anxiety and having panic attacks.

I'd definitely recommend this movie if you're interested in suspense, aliens and thriller qualities. It's not a movie that I would particularly choose to watch for myself, but it did bring about some interesting and endearing qualities of a 'family-like' relationship in caring for each other i.e. the family of humanity against an alien threat. Definitely food for thought again...

Book Fair Frenzy...

It's been a while since I visited a Book Fair but last week my two eldest daughters picked me up and we went to a book Fair that was sponsored by the local Rotary club.

It was interesting to visit but because it was on the 4th day of the Fair, by the time we got to it, a lot of the newer books had already been sold.

When I spoke to one of the coordinators, she said it had been packed in the first couple of days but people were still coming to visit even days after it had opened.

I still prefer to read physical books as opposed to e-books although it has been good to be able to read in bed with an e-book without the lights on but it's just not the same.

I saw a lot of the books that I had read and a lot of books that had fan bases but I chose not to buy them as I still have a lot of books at home. 

Although I did think that I probably had enough books to attend a book fair of my own! and so I ended up only buying one book which was more for sentimental value as a book from the "Chicken Soup" series that I enjoyed reading back in my 30s.

It's probably a good fundraiser too that I thought I would have liked to have organized for a school or Early Childhood centre to clear people's garages and homes from books that they didn't want or need and give it a second life with another family and then just gift the remaining to a second-hand bookshop (although there aren't a lot of those around either). But food for thought...

 

Kirk Franklin's "Love Theory" this Sunday...

 

I listened to Kirk Franklin's song "Love Theory" the other day and thought about how inspiring and encouraging it was to listen to. It also reminded me of how sometimes we get so caught up in the worries and sometimes mundane things in life that we forget to look around us and marvel at the complexities and beauty of nature.

I also think that dance and music have been gifted to us to lift our spirits in times such as the video depicts and I'm so glad that we have inspirational leaders in gospel music who are able to lift our spirits out of the mundaneness with songs such as these.

So whilst listening to this song, why not get up and have a little dance with a little joy in reminding yourself that there is a time of stillness in church but also a time to get up and enjoy the music and life that's been gifted to us.

I hope that this song can be inspirational to your life today and be reminded not to stay in life's mundaneness or misery but to rise up and be thankful that we have another day to add to our lives and to make it count for those around us and especially for us too... Enjoy...

Symbolism Vision board second half 2024...

 

This past week, I decided to make a Vision board with images that are symbolic of some of the goals that I have till the end of the year.

I'd read about how powerfully focusing they can be as inspirational and also reminds through physical presence to see.

What's so neat about it is that I added it to a corkboard so that I can always change it if need be. Plus I used push pins to change it up.

I'm thinking about changing it up monthly and adding or switching it up as is appropriate. Probably something that's really neat for those who like visual clarity which is something that I enjoy to do as well.

So why not give it a go. The pics can be symbolic of the goals that you want to accomplish and you can source your materials from magazines or photos etc. In fact, anything that appeals to you that resonates with your goals, dreams etc. can be used...

Inside Out 2 movie review...

It was a blessing going on a family movie night last night with my children to watch "Inside Out 2". Interestingly enough, it was the eldest who had been anticipating it so we went along to see what it was all about.

I must confess that I hadn't watched the first one as I had caught bits 'n pieces when the kids were watching it but I really wasn't interested but when we made plans to go watch the second installment, I thought that it would be important for me to watch the first so that I could have a better understanding of the first.

I only got through half of it after watching it on "Disney+" before we had to head out to the movies. I found it interesting and thought they must have had to discuss the concepts through with psychologists etc. to make sure that they got it right.

However, upon watching the second movie, I must say that I thought that it was a bit OTT (over the top) with all the things happening with the main character and when I expressed that "I didn't get it" with my children they just laughed and said that it was all about puberty! (It's been decades since I went through for me :)

I then realised that I'd watched the older two go through puberty with varying results and was still going through it with the youngest so it was very interesting to listen to their perspectives of the movie. I'm just glad to not have to go through it myself as it was an interesting time, and dare I say, with more to come with my youngest teen...

Random Acts of Kindness...

 

Spirit works in mysterious ways. (Crayon with dye)  

Yesterday, I had the privilege of picking up my daughter after school from the local bus stop which is just outside our local town centre.

When I was waiting for her to approach the car, I saw a young mother holding a young child on her hip and with other children surrounding her and following after her.

My daughter arrived into the car and we acknowledged each other but my eyes followed the young mum with 7 children that I counted with varying heights and ages.

As I pulled out of the parking lot, I followed her to the entrance of the shopping centre and she entered with her entourage. I then parked the car and thought to pick up a treat for my youngest as it was the last day of the term and she was entering the holidays for two weeks plus I hadn't started cooking yet.

I kept thinking about this mum and how difficult it must be to take care of seven children but upon walking into the shopping centre area, I had already lost site of her. I decided to go look for her as I had already purposed to put aside some monies for a church annual membership and decided to instead gift some of it to this mother.

I finally found her in line at the local fish and chip shop with the children all seated waiting for her to return. I then too fell in the same line (thinking to buy the same for my child) and then thought to ask her a question when she returned to the table with a tray of food. 

I thought she might think I'm weird, so I first excused myself and asked if these were all her children. She replied that the younger two of them were hers and the others were her sister's children. I then gave her a $ gift which she wouldn't take but I insisted and placed in her hand. I then said that I knew what it meant to be a mother and quickly left. I heard her reply 'thank you' as I acknowledged but she couldn't see me.

I clean forgot about the encounter as I returned to my daughter in the car with a treat and then returned home to continue with my studies. I'm not writing this to extol my virtues but more as a reminded to any who are interested to consider doing a random act of kindness.

It reminded me of my late father whom I watched when he gave $ gifts to complete strangers when they were celebrating a birthday and he walked and acknowledged the importance of the occasion. It wasn't so much the monetary value but the fact that someone was 'seen' and acknowledged with love by a complete stranger who asked for nothing in return except to have been a small part of that joy.

A possible challenge for any out there as I felt compelled (by the Spirit) to reach out to this mother not knowing what the circumstances were for her and the children in having compassion and even feeling a bit stupid for thinking that she might think that I was stalking her. 

However, the infinite joy and power that I felt in being able to gift her and the children to see that families were valued and especially with the high cost of living and economic climate. It's important to reach out and share what we can (for those who can) and to walk away expecting nothing in return...

Kirk Franklin - African American gospel artist...

 I came across Kirk Franklin and his inspiring gospel music that came through one of my Social media feeds. If you haven't heard of him then you were very similar to me in that he has an interesting soulful, R & B, Hip-hop fusion of African American Black gospel music.

It was really interesting to read up on him as he also has scored lots of attention in racking up so many gospel music awards in the US. I don't think we have anyone in NZ that equates to his up tempo style of music that incorporates dance as well.

You just have to watch him move, in dance, and you'll see what I mean. His dancing style reminds me of a cross between the late Michael Jackson, Prince, and James Brown who were all fantastic dancers and signature singers in their own right.

Why not check out this video clip which is an oldie but a goodie in the sense that this kicked off what was to become a living legend in the Black American gospel charts. However, his music purports to bring people together of diverse peoples and also point them to a living God!...

Josh Totafi's latest release...

 This long Matariki weekend's been a neat time of reflection of the past, checking out the current projects that are on tap and considering new moves for the future with a whole lot of neat positive vibes. 

Being that this season marks the Māori new year calender. During which I listened to some music and came across this latest offering from one of my new fave tongan/Hawaiian artists Josh Tatofi's latest music video which had me laughing.

It's called "Who's that Girl?" and I just 'cracked up' (my Poly humour) when I watched it as it took me back to first watching the origin "Grease" movie with John Travolta in the 'T-birds' gang and the late Olivia Newton John who played his co-star of Sandy.

His latest song has a 50s vibe and the video shows the same. I had to shake my head though when watching Josh singing inside a 50s type car. Man, he should show some 50s moves cos that could add to the video too.

So why not check it out and see what you think. Again, like the original 'Grease' they had adults acting out the teenage characters and especially the guys were so funny cos they looked so much older than the teen counterparts that they were playing....

Matariki National holiday extra day...

 

This is some artwork that I completed at our last class noho (weekend stayover). My colleague is into art, as I am, and this is a depiction of the Matariki star cluster of nine stars.

I used white crayon on Watercolour paper then added the aquamarine blue dye which gives it a really rich affect.

It's neat that the Māori Indigenous educational organization that I work with has given us an extra day holiday today to celebrate our third national Māori Indigenous holiday tomorrow.

What's also neat is that the theme is about: Remembering (those who have passed away during the year) yesterday, acknowledging where we currently are and planning for the future. I'm also glad that the organizers of this special holiday have stipulated that it's not about having mad rush sales and shopping i.e. retailers cutting into the holiday.

But it's more about spending time gathering together with your family whether it be back at the Marae, at home or at a special place to regroup and plan for the Māori new year ahead. Traditional this is the time of the new year before the Gregorian calender that we use internationally.

Each star in the 9-star cluster also are named and represent important information that have spanned the generations. It's been really exciting to learn of these properties and to also learn that when Captain Cook landed on New Zealand, that he had no idea of the depth and breath that Māori culture already had in their understandings of the weather systems, astronomy and so much else that I have learned over the years in working at this indigenous institution.

Suffice to say that it's truly been a blessing and a real tip of the iceberg stuff and it has been an amazing challenge in learning all of the things that were never taught to me in high school and in the other educational organizations that I had post graduate studies classes in... 

New Whittaker's Macadamia Creamy milk chocolate bar...

 

Just in case you haven't heard, this new Limited Edition Whittaker's chocolate bar is my fan favourite. It's just been released and I hope that it's a keeper.

It reminds me of the oval chocolate-covered macadamia nuts that are sold in Hawaii and that I'd usually buy in bulk before boarding the plane to come home from a stopover or flight there.

I was really surprised to see this particular chocolate on our supermarket shelves and I think they may be even checking to see how it goes as to whether it will stay on the market shelves.

Either way, it's okay as I definitely enjoyed the taste but didn't like the fact that it was in bars as I still prefer the oval shape of the Hawaiian chocolates that I so enjoyed.

But hopefully, in the same breath, they will remain and I'd add them to my trolley every now and then as too much of a good thing isn't always a good idea.

So well done, Whittaker's, on bringing about another new flavour to add to your repertoire but also a fan favourite for many chocolate connoisseurs, like me (ha ha). Just joking, definitely nice but still prefer the Hawaiian origins...

Congratulations on Graduating Class of 2024

 

A big CONGRATULATIONS to my sis/cuz Aunei Lita (at my left) and her daughter, Mariana (at my right), for graduating with two certificates (level 4) from the course that I taught last year of Te Kunenga o te Ao Tikanga at Te Wananga o Aotearoa. 

I also had some other beautiful Wahine Toa (brave Māori women) students who attended from my class and congratulations go out to them all as some were also unable to attend the graduation ceremony.

The pic was taken at yesterday's graduation ceremony at Church Unlimited out in West Auckland at Glendene. It was an interesting venue having our graduation at a church but it worked out just beautifully as well.

It was a neat opportunity as an amazing fees free course that I taught for, a number of years, where I got to teach, learn, and grow in my understanding of te tikanga Māori or Māori protocols and customs which in turn helped to solidify my understandings of fa'aSamoa or Samoan customs and protocols.

Now that I am teaching in the new post graduate department in the course of Kaitiakitanga: Bicultural Professional Supervision, I'm glad that I got the opportunity to lean into cultural protocols and traditions that have also informed my own lived experiences and ultimately my thesis.

I invited my two elder children along for the graduation ceremony and it was neat for them to show support as they were shouting and 'cheeho-ing' from the audience in support of their aunty and cousin. It's such a blessing as the course can pathway to degree courses and whatever they choose to do.

I'm now halfway through teaching this new course that I've now turned my attention to and it's really been interesting, challenging, postgraduate and a wonderful opportunity to hone my skills and support  graduate students along their journey.

As always, I'm encouraging them also, like my sis/cuz to consider further challenging post-graduate courses like the Master's degree but I'll leave it up to them as it does require commitment, perseverance, especially pushing through adversities but the cherry on the cake is the graduation ceremony which makes it all worthwhile (plus the certificate) and memories of the journey...

Weekend 40 Hour challenge...

Over the weekend, two family members joined me on 'World Vision's' 40 Hour Challenge formerly known as the 40 Hour Famine.

The earlier commitment was about fasting or going without food from the Friday at 8pm to Sunday at noon. This is where we would usually have a feast as a group or organization to celebrate finishing the fasting challenge.

I have been supporting this organization and this challenge since I was in high school and I remember having sleep overs at a local church hall or at a school hall with other fellow supporters.

I remember playing badminton and having fun with all sorts of activities to get the mind off food although drinking water was fine. Nowadays the challenge can incorporate not using social media, mobile phones or the internet over the weekend, a now more popular challenge than the fasting.

Afterwards, we would gather our money having sort sponsorship from family members or friends so that the money gained from the sponsorship would go back to World Vision to use for their project work in different nations.

Nowadays, I just make a donation and last year I bought a Tshirt but left it in Samoa. The colours of the organization are orange with black and white. Next time I'll ensure that my Tshirt is around as I prefer the orange on black than the white on orange.

Anyway, another one of the charities that I love to support as there are so many that I have supported over the years but now have committed to only supporting a few that align with my Christian and cultural principles and values...

 

Independence and freedom as a writer and/or poet...

 

Today, when I was searching through my names with the ideas of rebranding, I came across a blog called 'NZ Poetry Shelf' and an article written by Paula Green.

She wrote a piece reviewing the Pasifika poets anthology, which one of my poems recently featured in. It was a delight to find that when interviewing one of the three editors called Mere, she was quoted as saying...

"A high was discovering poets who were writing outside the scrutinizing glare of the literary establishment. I am referring to poets like Maureen Fepuleai and Faalavaau Helen Tau'au Filisi who take on print publication projects on their own without the involvement of presses like AUP, and OUP..."

Incidentally, AUP is Auckland University Press (my being an alumni from my first University of Auckland University) and OUP (Otago University Press). Both presses are attached to their respective universities.

Although I had considered AUP, it's only ever been a consideration as I've enjoyed my independence and freedom of speech. The independence of being able to write about topics that are important to me and may not be to an established publisher keeps me independent and not chasing after the mighty $$$.

It's also an encouragement for would-be writers to try some pioneering self-publishing. My parents and grandparents were pioneering especially when moving to a new land, putting down roots and trying to navigate in a new location.

It was indeed a highlight to have been gifted with an opportunity to have some of my writing added to a published in a Pasifika poetry anthology. It certainly validated for me that one does not have to "ask for permission" from the academy to write and publish poetry but that through an authentic journey of writing discovery, one may just decide to publish their own...

 

Professional Development...

 

For the last two days, I've been on some Professional Development in the CBD Central Business District of Auckland City.

It's been a great privilege as it was a type of scholarship whereby there were 17 of us shortlisted for business startup support. 

Through some pretty amazing funders and philanthropic organizations that offered scholarships for us to attend workshops. 

One was regarding AI or Artificial Intelligence, Planning and pitching workshops, and much, much more which was plenty of food for thought.

The other great opportunity was being in a building that had an amazing view of the harbour, the seascape, and great views from our office windows. I especially enjoyed the ambiance and the like-minded group that I was with.

I also wanted to thank my elder two children for looking after my household, two of whom caught COVID and were isolating whilst I was away. Really appreciate the care and attention that they took as it was such a blessing.

Now the mentoring starts 10 sessions which is a pretty amazing venture and I'm looking forward to my first one this Friday. In fact, there's so much going on that I think I need to catch up on my sleep but it was ultra exciting.

So if you ever get the opportunity to apply for some neat opportunities, why not go for them, like me, you never know what it's like until you take a chance and then thank God for such neat opportunities. So much for me to consider even when I'm trying to finish and submit my thesis...

The 'Conqueror' Te Araroa virtual challenge medal...

 

Today, I received my 'Conqueror' Te Araroa medal having completed the virtual challenge last month. It's a little heavier than expected and it came with an explanatory note on the design.

It is likened to a replica of an axe head and has some intricate Māori designs on it which is what I've seen on other Māori greenstone of pouname that I've received.

I think it's such a nice medal to receive and especially as it's my first one from the 'Conqueror' brand. However, I still like the Pacer medals as they come in a gift box but they don't have the explanatory note which is a nice touch.

I'm now also awaiting for the 'Jesus trail' medal from the Conqueror brand that I completed this month. It was top on my list as I had wanted to learn more about the bible stories that I had learned about growing up and the places that Jesus walked. Although hoping that one day I get to visit it too.

My next walk that I'm contemplating to do with Conqueror is a 1,000 km walk over a year similar to the challenge that I'm trying to finish with Pacer of the Silk Road trek that's taken me around 3 years since 2021/2022. It's a 3,800km virtual challenge and I'm in it's last couple of months so getting there...