Earlier this month, Rosita, Faaiuga, and I, members of our Ora’anga team, had the privilege of attending the 2025 GPS (Global Pacific Solutions) Conference, hosted by Le Vā at the Due Drop Centre from Thursday 10 to Friday 11 April.
The theme, “It is he moana that binds us, it is the whenua that defines us,” deeply resonated with us as it honoured the shared connections we hold across Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa while grounding us in the importance of our indigenous lands and identities. It was a powerful reminder that our roots and relationships carry us forward in this mahi.
The conference brought together a rich range of talanoa across key areas such as mental health, addiction, disability, suicide prevention, and public health. It was an inspiring space filled with thought-provoking dialogue and courageous leadership.
We were especially proud to see our very own Caren Rangi take the stage as one of the main speakers. We heard that she brought so much mana and insight to the space — it was a proud moment for our entire team and wider Pacific Homecare whānau.
As a team, we gained renewed inspiration, practical frameworks, and insights into culturally anchored solutions, which we will weave into how we support our aigas.
The GPS Conference was more than an event—it was a celebration of Pasifika excellence, a call to action, and a safe space to dream bigger for our communities. We returned to our roles feeling recharged, grounded, and more committed than ever to uplifting the well-being of our Pacific families.
Ia manuia,
Leo Fauena | Ora’anga Clinical & Cultural Advisor/Co-Lead
