13TH Tongan Research Association Conference,

International House, University of California,

 Berkeley, USA 3-6 December 2009.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTIONS
Schedule at a Glance……………………………….3
Welcome……………………………………………5
BACKGROUND
Tonga Research Association……………………….7
U.C. Berkeley Campus…………………………….9
International House………………………………..10
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Planning Committee……………………………….11
TRA Officers………………………………………12
Sponsors……………………………………………13
Keynote Speakers…………………………………..14
SCHEDULE
Thursday, December 3, 2009………………………15
Friday, December 4, 2009………………………….17
Saturday, December 5, 2009……………………….19
Sunday, December 6, 2009…………………………21
EVENING EVENTS & MEETING AGENDA
Launching of Books………………………………..23
General Meeting…………………………………….24
Sunday Worship……………………………………25
ABSTRACTS ……………………………………………..26
BIOGRAPHIES……………………………………………46
3
SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2009
9:00 AM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Registration
9:30 AM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Welcome
10:00 AM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .. Keynote Address
10:30 AM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Plenary Panel
“Tongan Diaspora – Identity Issues/
Takamuli 'a e Tonga – 'Uhinga 'o e Tonga”
1:45 AM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Plenary Panel
“Tongan Diaspora - Health & Well Being Issues/
Takamuli 'a e Tonga – Mo'uilelei & LangimÂlie”
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2009
9:00 AM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Registration
9:30 AM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Plenary Panel
“Moana Theories, Concepts, & Indigenous Language /
Ngaahi Vavalo Fakaako, Tefito'i Fakakaukau, & Lea
Tu'ufonua 'a e Kau Moana”
2:15 PM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Plenary Panel
“Education & Research / Ako & Fekumi”
Evening Event
7:00 PM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . .Launching of Books / Ouau Hifoaki Tohi
4
SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2009
9:00 AM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Closing Keynote Address
9:30 AM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Plenary Panel
“Tongan Theology / Tala-'otua Faka-Tonga”
11:15 AM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Plenary Panel
“History & Migration / Tala-e-Kuonga & Hikifonua”
3:15 PM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Panel Discussion
“Education, Family and the Economy: A
Community Outlook on the Lives of Tongans in the
Bay Area / Ako, Famili mo e 'Ekonomika: Ko Ha
Vakai fakaekolo ki he Mo'ui 'a e Tonga 'i he Bay
Area”
EVENING EVENT
4:15 PM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TRA General Meeting /
TRA Fakataha Fakakātoa
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2009
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Worship / Lotu
Laurel United Methodist Church (Tongan)
5
WELCOME
6
Dear Conference Participants,
Welcome to the Tonga Research Association Conference! This year’s
conference theme: "Siu’alaimoana: Voyaging Through the Oceans of
Tongan Theories and Practices” reflects the core values of the Tonga
Research Association (TRA) as it promotes and addresses the importance of
research in our Tongan communities. As the only association of its kind
focusing on Tonga research worldwide, our work is characterized not only
by research but by a community-based participatory approach – one that
relies heavily on community engagement and efforts in the development of
successful research and dissemination.
Since its inception in 1987, the Tonga Research Association has made
significant strides in promoting and bringing research on Tonga to the mass.
The TRA continues to promote working closely with students, professors,
researchers, community partners and members with interest in Tonga
research. Quality research on Tonga can make a difference in the lives of
future Tongan generations.
We are very grateful to this year’s conference organizers, speakers and
presenters. Your work is testament to the significance and value of
community and academic partnerships in understanding, addressing and
promoting researches that bring attention to health disparities, education
inequities, importance of identity, power of language - the significance of
investing and re-investing in our communities in its various fields. We
thank you for your strong support of our common efforts and for your
continued dedication to Tongan issues. We also thank you for joining us at
the 13th biennial Tonga Research Association conference. Enjoy the
conference, the San Francisco bay area and Happy Holidays!
Sincerely,
‘Asinate Samate
Rev. Dr. ‘Asinate Samate
Tonga Research Association President
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BACKGROUND
of Tonga Research Association
The Tongan History Association was established after the Second Tongan History
Conference in Ha'apai, 1989. Chaired by the first President of the Association the
late Reverend Dr. Sione Latukefu and a number of like minded scholars, the Tongan
History Association was established as an association whose main purpose was to
preserve, study and discuss Tongan History at a micro‐level, from the past right up
to the present. It has since expanded to include all disciplines and researchers
examining “things Tongan” have increased.
(Originally Foreword by Rev Dr Sione Latukefu)
This volume is a result of a truly historic occasion originally conceived as a small and
singular event. However, changing circumstances altered the original concept from a
small history workshop for local scholars interested in Tongan History into an
unexpectedly successful international conference at the Australian National University,
Canberra, in January 1987. A few people were responsible for initiating the original idea
and also for the changing circumstances that followed. They deserve our grateful thanks.
It all began at the Department of Pacific and SouthEast Asian History in 1985 when it
was envisaged that several scholars including the present writer, would be at the
Department in 1986/87. It seemed a good opportunity to hold a Workshop in Tongan
History, and Dr. Niel Gunson set about arranging it. A grant was obtained from the
University through the Department for this purpose for this purpose in 1986. When Dr
Gunson went on leave during the second half of the year he asked Phyllis Herda, at that
time a PhD student, and me to organise the workshop for january 1987. The plans
changed when a friend and colleague who was also doing some research at the ANU at
the time, Dr Caroline Ralston, remarked that it would be a pity if a workshop in Tongan
history did not include scholars form Tonga itself. When told that our problem was lack
of funds she immediately offered to pay the fares for two participants to come from
Tonga.
The then Head of the Department, Dr Anthony Reid, who was very supportive, was able
to find some additional funds from within the Department, which he donated to the
workshop, and thus it was possible to bring Tongan scholars from Tonga and from other
parts of Australia and New Zealand. Dr Reid emphasised a need for the workshop to
result in a publication.
Another unexpected source of inspiration was Dr Adrienne Kaeppler's reaction to our
invitation to attend. By sheer coincidence she happened to work back late one evening in
her office at the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, when I rang her. I explained we
had no funds to help with her fares and so on, but she responded that she would attend the
workshop and she would pay for herself. Inspired by this enthusiastic response from one
of the most well-known international scholars of Tongan culture, Phyllis and I set about
issuing similar invitations to other scholars in various places including Tonga itself. The
8
response was overwhelming. Hence the change from the humble beginnings to a
successful international conference.
Others who contributed to the overall success included the former New Zealand High
Commissioner to Tonga, Priscilla Williams, who kindly offered her delightful residence
as venue for the closing function. Members of the Tongan community in Canberra
generously offered to help prepare a feast and entertainment for the beautiful closing of
the conference. To the Department of Pacific and SouthEast Asian History, Research
School of Pacific and Asian Studies, ANU, and all those mentioned above whose
individual efforts contributed significantly to this first international Conference on the
History of Tonga we give our grateful thanks.
Because of its tremendous success, it was decided that a second conference should be
organised for January 1988 either in Tonga or in New Zealand. This was held in
Auckland with similar success and enthusiasm. Then a third conference was organised in
Tonga in January 1989, held on the island of Foa in Ha'apai. Here a Tongan History
Association was formed and Princess Pilolevu Tuita was elected Patron and myself
President. A fourth conference in New Zealand was held in May this year, 1990, with
enthusiastic response and participation.
The small seed with uncertain future which was placed on the ground at the ANU,
Canberra, in January 1987 has now grown into a healthy young tree with a promising
future. It is to be hoped that the present and future activities of the Tongan History
Association (THA) concentrating on micro histories will lead eventually to a situation, in
the not too distant future, where a sound general and up-to-date history of Tonga can be
produced, based on thorough and scholarly research. It is also hoped that this volume is
only the first of several others to follow.
Sione Latukefu
President, Tongan History Association, 1990.
9
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIABERKELEY
Founded in the wake of the gold rush by leaders of the newly
established 31st state, the University of California's flagship campus at
Berkeley has become one of the preeminent universities in the world.
Its early guiding lights, charged with providing education (both
"practical" and "classical") for the state's people, gradually established
a distinguished faculty (with 20 Nobel laureates to date), a stellar
research library, and more than 350 academic programs.
This California institution became a catalyst of economic growth and
social innovation — the place where vitamin E was discovered, a lost
Scarlatti opera found, the flu virus identified, and the nation's first nofault
divorce law drafted. Scholars at Berkeley have conducted
groundbreaking research on urban street gangs and on basic human
nutritional requirements, identified why wartime supply ships were
failing at sea, invented technologies to build faster and cheaper
computer chips, and imaged the infant universe.
To date, 20 UC Berkeley faculty have won Nobel awards.
In recognition of broad and deep excellence, respected sources have
repeatedly ranked UC Berkeley at or near the top in fields ranging
from engineering and the "hard" sciences to the social sciences, arts,
and humanities. The National Research Council, in the most recent
version of its highly regarded report on U.S. public and private
universities, ranked Berkeley no. 1 nationally in the number of campus
graduate programs (35 out of 36) among the top 10 in their fields.
In accordance with UC's "public" character, the university has long
served talented individuals regardless of means. As early as 1897,
financial aid was available for "needy and deserving" students. More
than a century later, UC Berkeley combines outstanding teaching and
research programs with broad access for students of all means —
educating more federal Pell Grant recipients from low-income families
than all eight Ivy League universities combined. Close to 30 percent of
UC Berkeley freshmen are the first in their families to attend college.
10
INTERNATIONAL HOUSE
Welcome to the INTERNATIONAL HOUSE
International House at UC Berkeley is a multi-cultural campus
residence and program center serving students, the local community
and alumni worldwide. Its mission is to foster intercultural respect,
understanding, lifelong friendships and leadership skills for the
promotion of a more tolerant and peaceful world.
11
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
2009 CONFERENCE PLANNING COMMITTEE
Dr. Helen Lee Rev. Dr. ‘Asinate Samate
Dr. Tevita O. Ka’ili Dr. Winston Tseng
O. Fahina Tavake-PasI Mataele Finau
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Tonga Research Association Officers
Patron: HRH Princess Pilolevu Tuita
Executive
President: Rev. Dr. Asinate Samate: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
VicePresident:
Dr Helen Lee: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Secretary/Treasurer (Tonga): Tau’atevalu (Josh Fonua)
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Secretary/Treasurer (O/seas): Fay Yule ‐ This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Overseas Representatives: Christine Liava`a (NZ), Fahina Tavake-Pasi (USA
& Canada), Martin Daly (UK & Europe)
Coopted
Committee Members: (until 2009 General Meeting): Tevita Ka`ili
and Fuifuilupe Niumeitolu
Honorary Members
HRH Princess Nanasipau’u Tuku’ako
Dr Elizabeth Bott Spillius
Dr Ruth Latukefu
Dr Elizabeth Wood‐Ellem
13
CORPORATE SPONSORS
14
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Opening Keynote Speaker: Hūfanga `Okusitino Māhina
Title: MOANA: Our Sea of Theories and Practices
Abstract: The title of this paper is inspired by the most celebrated Tongan/Moana
anthropologist, the late Professor Epeli Hau`ofa. In his seminal essay, “Our Sea of
Islands”, Professor Hau`ofa argues a highly convincing case for a consistent radical
change in thinking and practice of Moana anthropologists and peoples from theorising
about the Oceania/Moana as “islands in the far seas” to thinking about it as “our sea of
islands”, i.e., a movement from idealism to realism. In realist ways, I will examine
primarily the fuo (form) and uho (content) of my subject matter of investigation, leaving
its `aonga (use) for secondary considerations. In reality, the ontological questions, i.e.,
quality of knowledge, always logically precede the epistemological questions, i.e., utility
of knowledge. Given that theory is concerned principally with the independent
operations of things as they positively are, across nature, mind and society, in stark
contrast to their use for the satisfaction of human wants, I will critique a selection of
traditional historico-cultural concepts and practices, such as ako (education), `atamai
(mind), talanoa (theorising) and fonua (land and its people), in the context of our newlyemergent
tā-vā, time-space theory of reality. This new line of theoretical development is
a result of many years of closely dedicated collaboration with Moana scholars and artists,
notably Dr Tēvita `O. Ka`ili, Dr Nuhisifa Seve-Williams, Sopolemalama Filipe Tohi and
Sēmisi Fetokai Potauaine. Herein, I will reflect on some of the polemical relationships
between theory and practice, in reference to a range of problematic institutional,
instrumental, formal and cultural, intellectual, informal distinctions over knowledge
production and knowledge application.
Concluding Keynote Speaker: Dr. Tēvita O. Ka'ili
Title: Fekumi: A Communal Research Approach
Abstract: This keynote address argues that Tongan research is rooted in communalism.
Fekumi, a Tongan term for research, signifies that Tongan conceptualize research as a
mutual act (fe – mutual/reciprocal + kumi – to search, to look for, to seek) – to do
research together. This reciprocal research approach is rooted in the communal
arrangement of time (tā) in space (vā). For example, the mutual performance of
sociospatial responsibilities (vaha'angatae) between the researcher and the participant is a
communal arrangement of time in space. The communal research approach is based on
four related processes. First, it involves tracing genealogies (hohoko) and connections
(fetu'utaki) to establish social ties with research participants. Second, it utilizes a process
of performing (tā) sociospatial roles (vā'ifaiva) and sociospatial responsibilities
(vaha'angatae) to the research community. Third, it uses a practice of ongoing
conversations (talatalanoa) to unravel the meanings of cultural concepts. Lastly, it
involves developing and giving critical attention (fokifokihi) to all sides of a cultural
concept. I use detailed ethnographic data from my research among Tongans in Maui
(Hawai'i) to illustrate fekumi.
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CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2009
9:00 – 9:30 a.m…………………………………………………………………Registration / Lēsisita
9:30 – 10:00 a.m…………………………………………………………………….Welcome / Talitali
Winston Tseng, PhD
Assistant Research Scientist
University of California, Berkeley
Rev. Dr. 'Asinate Sāmate
President, Tonga Research Association
10:00 – 10:30 a.m…………………Opening Keynote Address / Tafimala'e: Lea Tefito
Hūfanga Dr. 'Okusitino Māhina
“MOANA: Our Sea of Theories and Practices”
10:30 – 10:45 a.m Break & Refreshments / Mālōlō & Fakaneifua
TONGAN DIASPORA – IDENTITY ISSUES /
TAKAMULI 'A E TONGA – 'UHINGA 'O E TONGA
Moderator / Tauhi Paenga – Mataele Fīnau
10:45 – 11:15 a.m…………………………………………………Dr. Tangikina (Tangi) Steen &
Dr. Nancy Drescher
“Fie‐Palangi and Fie‐Tonga: The degree of Separation
in the Perspective of the Tongan Diaspora”
11:15 – 11:45 a.m……………………………………………………………………………Sione Tu'itahi
“Mei Siu‐i‐Moana ki Siu‐i‐Maama: Tongans Navigating
from the “Sea‐of‐Islands” Context to the Global Arena”
11:45 – 12:15 a.m…………………………………………………………………………… Dr. Helen Lee
“’It's a Third World Country so I Wouldn't Wanna Live
There!’ Second Generation Views of Tonga from the
Diaspora”
12:15 ‐1:15 p.m. Lunch / Ma'ume'atokoni Ho'atā
16
1:15 – 1:45 p.m…………………………………………………………………………………Linda Ghys &
Dr. Tangikina (Tangi) Steen
“Media Representation of Pacific Islander Youth by
Others': A Space for Continual [Mis]Construction of
Individual and Diaspora Identities”.
TONGAN DIASPORA - HEALTH & WELL BEING ISSUES /
TAKAMULI 'A E TONGA – MO'UILELEI & LANGIMÂLIE
Moderator / Tauhi Paenga – Dr. Helen Lee
1:45 – 2:15 p.m……………………………………………………………………………………Seini Taufa
“South‐Pacific Teenage Births in New Zealand”
2:15 – 2:45 p.m…………………………………………………………………………………… 'Ofa Dewes
“Investigating Determinants of the Obesity
Epidemic in South Auckland Adolescents. Is
There a Role for the Church?”
2:45 – 3:15 p.m………………………………………………………………………………Langitoto Helu
“Health and Wellbeing of Young Tongans
Brought Up In an Extended Family Home Setting
in New Zealand”
3:15 – 3:30 p.m. Break & Refreshments & Mālōlō & Fakaneifua
3:30 – 4:00 p.m………………………………………………………………….......Fāhina TavakePasi
"Lele atu 'o 'omai ha Mekitānolo!": Frequent
Fast‐Food Flyers”
4:00 – 4:30 p.m…………………………………………………………………………..Jacob Fitisemanu
“Moanan Perspectives on Cultural Competency
within the Doctor‐Patient Relationship”
4:30 – 5:00 p.m………………………………………………………………………………….Taitoko Tafa
“THE POPAO MODEL: A Pacific Recovery and
Strength Concept in Mental Health”
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CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2009
9:00 – 9:30 a.m…………………………………………………………………..Registration / Lēsisita
MOANA THEORIES, CONCEPTS, & INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE /
NGAAHI VAVALO FAKAAKO, TEFITO'I FAKAKAUKAU, & LEA
TU'UFONUA 'A E KAU MOANA
Moderator / Tauhi Paenga – Dr. Tēvita O. Ka'ili
9:30 – 10:00 a.m……………………………………………………….Dr. Ema WolfgrammFoliaki
“'Piki piki hama kae vae vae manava' – A Cultural
Framework for Supervising Pasifika Research
Students”
10:00 – 10:30 a.m…………………………………………Siosiua F.P. Lafitani (Tofua'ipangai)
“Western‐Moanan Theory of Space (Vā), Time
(Tā) and the Categories ('ū Tefito'iangama'u):
Obligation/Fatongia a Philosophy of Life”
10:30 – 10:45 a.m. Break & Refreshments / Mālōlō & Fakaneifua
10:45 – 11:15 a.m………………………………………………...Hūfanga Dr. 'Okusitino Māhina
“Takohi: Drawing in Tongan Thinking and
Practice.”
11:15 – 11:45 a.m………………………………………………………………….. Sēmisi F. Potauaine
“Tatau: Intersecting Times, Intersecting Spaces”
11:45 – 12:15 p.m……………………………………………………...Dr. Melenaite Taumoefolau
“The 'Uhinga (meaning) of 'Uhinga (identity)”
12:15 – 1:15 p.m. Lunch / Ma'ume'atokoni Ho'atā
18
1:15 – 1:45 p.m………………………………………………………………………..Helen Ferris Leary
“Implications of Moana Functional Versus
Western Mechanistic Categorization in Tongan
Word Comprehension”
1:45 – 2:15 p.m………………………………………………………………………………..Vavao Fetui &
Dr. Melenaite Taumoefolau
“Comparison of Tongan and Samoan Respect
Vocabularies”
EDUCATION & RESEARCH / AKO & FEKUMI
Moderator / Tauhi Paenga – Fāhina TavakePasi
2:15 – 2:45 p.m………………………………………………………..Dr. 'Ema WolfgrammFoliaki
“Koe Hala Kuo Papa – Multiple Pathways to
Literacy”
2:45 – 3:15 p.m………………………………………………………………………………Malia Talakai
“GEM Tonga”
3:15 – 3:30 p.m. Break & Refreshment / Mālōlō & Fakaneifua
3:30 – 4:00 p.m…………………………………………………………………...Dr. Nancy L. Drescher
“Bilingual Education in Vava'u”
EVENING EVENT / KĀTOAGA EFIAFI
7:00 – 9:00 p.m…………………………………….Launching of Books / Ouau Hifoaki Tohi
19
CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2009
9:00 – 9:30 a.m……………………………..Closing Keynote Address / Tātuku: Lea Tefito
Dr. Tēvita O. Ka'ili
“Fekumi: A Communal Research Approach”
TONGAN THEOLOGY / TALA-'OTUA FAKA-TONGA
Moderator / Tauhi Paenga – Rev. Dr. 'Asinate Sāmate
9:30 – 10:00 a.m………………………………………………………………………'Ikani Fakasi'i'eiki
“Lea mo e Taimi; A Study on the Language of the
Tongan Hymnbook”
10:00 – 10:30 a.m………………………………………………………………….Rev. Dr. Jione Havea
"Lōlenga Fakamotu: Talanoa‐'eiki‐o‐Tonga."
10:30 – 10:45 a.m. Break & Refreshment / Mālōlō & Fakaneifua
10:45 – 11:15 a.m…………………………………………………………………………Lousiale Uasikē
"Ko e 'Api 'a Fafine" and Women Doing Theology”
HISTORY & MIGRATION / TALA-E-KUONGA &
HIKIFONUA
Moderator / Tauhi Paenga – Mataele Fīnau
11:15 – 11:45 a.m…………………………………………………………….Professor David Burley
“Tonga's First Lapita Pots and What They Can
Tell Us of Polynesian Origins”
11:45 – 12:15 p.m………………………………………………………………………..Viliami Toluta'u
“Hikusila 'o e Talafa'unga”
12:15 – 1:15 p.m. Lunch / Ma'ume'atokoni Ho'atā
20
1:15 – 1:45 p.m...........................................................................................Professor David Burley
“A Very Long Way from Home: The Context, Age
and Implications for a Hawaiian‐style Petroglyph
Site at Houmale'eia, Foa Island, Ha'apai”
1:45 – 2:15 p.m…………………………………………………………………………Dr. Tēvita O. Ka'ili
“Takavaha: Ancient Contacts between Tonga and
Vaihi (Hawai'i)”
2:15 – 2:45 p.m.................................................................................................................Lisa Lavulo &
Sela Fo'ukimoana
“Untitled: Tongan American Pioneers”
2:45 – 3:15 p.m. Break & Refreshment / Mālōlō & Fakaneifua
EDUCATION, FAMILY AND THE ECONOMY: A COMMUNITY
OUTLOOK ON THE LIVES OF TONGANS IN THE BAY AREA/
AKO, FÂMILI MO E 'EKONÔMIKA: KO HA VAKAI
FAKAEKOLO KI HE MO'UI 'A E TONGA 'I HE BAY AREA
Moderator / Tauhi Paenga – Fāhina TavakePasi
3:15 – 4:15 p.m………………………………………………………Panel Discussion / Felāfoaki
Rev. Maile Koloto, United Methodist Church, Oakland
Rev. Heilala 'Ahio, United Methodist Church, Palo Alto
Leafā Taumoepeau, Community Leader, San Mateo
Janine MoleniMoa,
Community Nonprofit API Community, Oakland
Malina Wolfgramm, School Teacher, Oakland
Pres. Taimani Lautī, LDS Stake President, Oakland
EVENING EVENT / KĀTOAGA EFIAFI
4:15 – 5:15 p.m……………………………………….General Meeting / Fakataha Fakakātoa
21
CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2009
Worship & Free Time / Lotu & 'Atā
3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m……………………Laurel United Methodist Church
3525 Kansas Street
Oakland, CA 94619
22
EVENTS & AGENDAS
23
POLOKALAMA HIFOAKI TOHI/ BOOK LAUNCH PROGRAMME
December 4, 2009, 7pm – 9pm
TUKUPĀ KI SI`I FĀNAU KOTOA NE MOLE `ENAU MO`UÍ HE FAKATU`UTĀMAKI `I TONGĀ / DEDICATED TO
ALL THE BELOVED CHILDREN WHO LOST THEIR LIVES IN THE TRAGEDY IN TONGA
Tataki ‘o e Ouau / Master of Ceremony: Fahina Tavake-Pasi
6:45pm Social Reception / Acoustic Band
7:00pm Lotu Fakaava / Opening Prayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rev. Dr. Jione Havea
7:05pm Talitali / Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rev. Dr. ‘Asinate Samate
TRA President
7:15pm Lea / Remarks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dr. Tevita O. Ka’ili
“About the Authors and Book”
Brigham Young University-Hawaii
7:30pm Lea / Remarks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hufanaga Dr. ‘Okusitino Mahina
“Translation of Book”
7:40pm Fakame’ite / Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Youth
7:45pm Hifoaki Ngaahi Tohi / Launching of Books
Dr. Melenaite Taumoefolau
8:05pm Lau Tohi / Readings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sione Tauifahi
8:15pm Lea / Remarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dr. Melenaite Taumoefolau
“About the Authors”
8:25pm Hifoaki Ngaahi Tohi / Launching of Books
Hufanga Dr. ‘Okusitino Mahina
8:45pm Fakamālō / Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dr. Tevita O. Ka’ili
8:50pm Lotu Tuku / Closing Prayer
Tapuaki Me`a’ilo / Bless Refreshments. . . . . . . . . . . . ‘Ikani Fakasi’i’eiki
8:55pm Refreshments and Social
24
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2009
4:15 PM – 5:15 PM
TONGA RESEARCH ASSOCIATION
GENERAL MEETING 2009
OPENING OF MEETING : President of TRA
MINUTES:GENERAL MEETING 12 JULY 2007 (as published in newsletter 2007)
ITEMS OF BUSINESS
1. Reports from the Overseas Representatives
2. Report of the Tonga Secretary/Treasurer
3. Report of Overseas Secretary/Treasurer
4. Conference Publication: report from publishing sub-committee
5. Publications committee
Proposal: elected publications committee for decision-making on TRA publications.
6. TRA membership fees and fee structure. Current: $10/per year ($5/student) or
$40/six years, paid in own currency to local representative.
Proposal A: to change fee structure so there are no one-year memberships, given that
conferences are held every two years.
Proposal B: to increase fees to $30 for two years ($15 for students), $50 for four years
(no student reduction).
7. TRA communication
Proposal: that at least two members of the executive have access to the full email and
address list of all TRA members.
8. TRA conferences
Proposal A: future calls for abstract submissions and guidelines.
Proposal B: future TRA conference functions to celebrate achievements of TRA
members, such as publications, research grants, new appointments, etc.
9. Executive committee
Proposal: add a graduate student representative on the committee to encourage student
participation and develop TRA student activities. Proposal would require an amendment
to the TRA Constitution or co-opted between conferences.
7. Election of Committee Members for 2009-2011
President – currently ‘Asinate Samate
Vice-President – currently Helen Lee
Secretary-Treasurer (Tonga) – currently Tau`atevalu (Josh Fonua)
Secretary-Treasurer (Overseas) – currently Fay Yule
Newsletter Editor (already TRA VP) – currently Helen Lee: wishes to be replaced
Overseas Representatives - currently Christine Liava`a (NZ), Fahina Tavake-Pasi (USA
& Canada), Martin Daly (UK & Europe)
8. Next conference
9. Other business / Adjourn
25
Sunday, December 6, 2009
3:00pm - 5:00pm
Combined Tongan Research Association &
Laurel United Methodist Church worship service
Misinster Rev. Maile Koloto
Sunday Worship Program
Preachers will include TRA ordained ministers
Speakers include TRA members and local congregation
Tongan choirs
Location:
Laurel United Methodist Church
3525 Kansas Street
Oakland, CA 94619
26
ABSTRACTS
“Fie‐Palangi and Fie‐
Tonga: The degree of
Separation in the
Perspective of the
Tongan Diaspora”
Dr. Tangikina (Tangi)
Steen
Nancy Drescher
A number of literary works have been published
on the subject of social adjustment of migrants to living
and integrating successfully to the way of life of their
adopted country (see for example Smolicz, 2001 and
Hage, 1998). The literature clearly demonstrates that the
majority of the processes of social adjustment are
mainly left at the discretion of the migrants, in relation
to their rate of adjustment and/or adoption, and
consequently their ‘successful’ integration into their
adopted country’s way of life. In this world of cultural
hybridity, the Tongan notion or concept of ‘fie-palangi’
is often used as a derogatory term to describe Tongan
migrants who have somehow adjusted and may have
formed a viewpoint or adopted a certain set of
behaviours which are more akin to the ‘palangi’ than the
Tongan way. In contrast, if a ‘palangi’ is seen to be
wanting to adopt or live the Tongan way of life or ‘fie-
Tonga’, the behaviour often associated with this process
of adjustment is that of acceptance and willingness to
show the ‘palangi’ the Tongan way. While one process
depicts exclusivity, the other is that of nurturing and
inclusivity towards adopting a Tongan lifestyle.
In this paper, two academics, a Tongan and a
Palangi, present a narrative of their perspectives of the
notion of ‘fie-Tonga’ and ‘fie-Palangi’ in the contexts of
their professions, mix-cultural families, and their
respective Tongan diaspora communities. The narration
will be highlighted by evidence from relevant literature
on what is construed by the Pacific Island communities
of the USA and Australia as a workable ‘set of
behaviours’ for social inclusion.
“Mei Siu‐i‐Moana ki Siui‐
Maama: Tongans
Navigating from Our
Sea‐of‐Islands to the
Global Arena”
Sione Tu'itahi
This paper outlines the migration patterns of
Tongans over the last 50 years from Tonga to
metropolitan centres for the purpose of socio-economic
progress. It analyses some of the major challenges and
issues that Tongans encounter in these new contexts.
Furthermore, it explores possible strategic directions and
development frameworks that can contribute to
improving the holistic wellbeing of these pockets of
Tongan communities.
27
Arguing that western models of socio-economic
development are largely materialistic and, therefore, not
fully compatible with Tongan needs and aspirations, this
paper proposes employing the Tongan development
framework of Fonua as a more appropriate approach for
Tongans in this increasingly globalised society. Fonua
is a socio-ecological framework that is holistic, covering
both the material and spiritual dimensions of human
development, and therefore, can complement western
models of development.
Ultimately, the aim of this paper to encourage a
more strategic focus and systematic approach to Tongan
development, and to enable and empower Tongans to
take greater ownership and leadership of their holistic
wellbeing and destiny.
"It's a Third World
Country so I Wouldn't
Wanna Live There!"
Second Generation
Views of Tonga from the
Diaspora”
Dr. Helen Lee
The children of Tongan migrants have views of their
parents’ homeland that are shaped by their experiences
in the diaspora and, for some, varying periods of time in
Tonga itself. Their views range from highly critical and
disparaging to romantic and idealistic, and are
complexly entangled with these young peoples’
identities. My paper explores this entanglement, and the
ambivalent and sometimes contradictory views of Tonga
and ‘the Tongan way’ expressed in the context of
interviews about transnational engagements with the
homeland. Second generation Tongans aged 18-30,
living in five cities and one regional centre in Australia,
were interviewed about their connections to Tonga. As
they reflected on these connections – or lack of them, in
some cases – they drew on their diasporic perspective
not only to describe Tonga but to offer critiques of
Tongan practices and values and assert their identities as
overseas-born Tongans.
28
“Media Representation
of Pacific Islander Youth
by 'Others': A Space for
Continual
[Mis]Construction of
Individual and Diaspora
Identities”
Linda Ghys
Dr. Tangikina (Tangi)
Steen
As more and more people from the Island
nations of the South Pacific migrate for one reason or
another to countries such as the USA, Australia and
New Zealand for instance, the study of the
notion of what they construct as their social and
cultural ‘space’ and what it means to the social
shaping of their identities and that of their diaspora
communities is an interesting and continuing
field of social research. ‘Space’ is claimed to have a
number of properties, not only physical as in a
specific location, but space has vocality, can be
politicised, it is culturally relative and historically
specific (Rodman, 2004). In other words, ‘space’ has a
multiplicity of social constructions and its
specificities are continuously reproduced (Massey,
1994). The process of [re]creating a Pacific
Islander ‘space’ and that of their identities in diaspora
communities is influenced by a number of
factors. Besides being defined and influenced by their
own traditions and cultures, a more sinister
dimension of this construction is often overtly created
by ‘others’
This paper provides an analysis of media
representations of Pacific Islander ‘youth gangs’ by the
Australian media during 1997-2007. What is of interest
to this analysis is the variety of formation
and social [mis]constructions of Pacific Islander youths
by the Australian media. Of particular interest here is
the ‘space’ created by mainstream print and electronic
media of Pacific Islander migrant groups in relation to
‘youth gangs’. For instance, there was a clear use of
language, intentional or not, to create a specific ‘space’
for Pacific Islander youths dominated by images of
dysfunctional youths, families and migrant
communities.
"South‐Pacific Teenage
Births in New Zealand”
Seini Taufa
Dr. Elizabeth Craig
Prof. Diana Lennon
Dr. Melani Anae
Background: In New Zealand following the mass
migration in the 1970’s a young urbanised Pacific
population has emerged. New Zealand teenage births
(33.4 per 1,000) are second only to the U.S.A (55.6 per
1000) in the OECD. Pacific teenage pregnancy rates are
three times higher than for European/Pakeha teenage
pregnancy.
Aim: To explore the demography of Pacific teenage
births using a variety of different ethnicity
classifications, and to understand the experiences faced
29
by Tongan teenage mothers leading up to, and after the
birth of their child.
Method: De-identified birth registration data from
44,768 teenage mothers were analysed for 1996-2006.
The outcome of interest was teenage birth, with
explanatory variables including maternal ethnicity
Prioritised Level One ethnicity (Maori, Pacific Island,
Asian, Other, European), and the Level 2 Sole Pacific
(belonging solely to one Pacific Group) and Any Pacific
(belonging to a Pacific group, alongside other ethnic
groups) classification systems) and socioeconomic
deprivation (using the NZ Deprivation Index).
Qualitative analysis was undertaken during 2008. This
involved 21 semi-structured face-to-face interviews with
Tongan Teenage mothers in New Zealand and Tonga.
Results: When prioritised ethnicity was used, Pacific
teenage birth rates were intermediate between those of
Maori and European women. When the Sole / Any
Pacific classification was used, teenage births were
significantly higher for the Any Pacific category, than
the Sole Pacific Category. By Island group, teenage birth
rates were also significantly higher for Cook Island
Maori and Niuean women, than for Samoan or Tongan
women. For all Pacific groups, teenage birth rates were
higher for those living in the most deprived areas.
Themes that emerged from the qualitative analysis
highlight the importance of family support and the lack
of awareness of services available for Teenage mothers.
Conclusions: Pacific women in New Zealand are a
heterogeneous group, with significant differences in
teenage birth rates being evident for different Pacific
groups. Despite this, a unifying theme was exposure to
significant socioeconomic deprivation, a finding which
has significant policy implications, if the ongoing
wellbeing of these young mothers and their babies is to
be ensured. In addition, the qualitative analysis
suggested that family support was crucial to both the
teenage mother and the baby and that more needs to be
done with regards to delivery of services for Teenage
mothers.
30
“Investigating
Determinants of the
Obesity Epidemic in
South Auckland
Adolescents. Is There a
Role for the Church?”
'Ofa Dewes
R. Scragg
R. Elley
D. Thomas
Background: Obesity is a risk factor for many chronic
diseases including diabetes type 2. 65% of Pacific
adults were obese compared with 43% Maori and 23%
NZ European and Other (2006/07 Health Survey). Up
to 97% of Pacific ethnic groups reported an affiliation
with a Christian religion (2006 Census). Studies aimed
at improving the health of Pacific peoples have been
implemented in Pacific churches however it is not
known whether church attendance is associated with
obesity.
Aim: Investigate the determinants of the obesity
epidemic in Pacific adolescents who attend church, as
well as the attitudes and values of church leaders.
Method: Baseline data collected from 4,250 students in
South Auckland included 2,495 (59%) students of
Pacific ethnic groups*. Information on lifestyle as well
as home, school and church environments was collected
on paper questionnaires, and electronically using
Personal Data Assistants (pdas). Anthropometric
measurements were also collected. Data for the
qualitative investigation was collected from individual
meetings with 20 ordained leaders, a community
workshop attended by 60 ordained and lay leaders, and
by semi-structured interviews with 23 ordained and lay
leaders. The research was guided by both western and
Pacific theoretical frames.
Results: 1,928 (78%) of Pacific adolescents selfreported
church attendance. Although obesity is a key
health issue facing the church, there was a low level of
food consumption and physical activity at church. The
protective factors for obesity outweighed the nonprotective
factors among Pacific adolescents. In spite of
this, church attendees were found to have higher levels
of obesity than non-attendees.
Conclusion: Higher levels of obesity in Pacific
adolescents and the functional role of church leaders,
support the need for church-based obesity intervention
programs. These should be responsive to the needs and
lived realities of Pacific peoples as well as address
lifestyle strategies around food, physical activity and
behavioural support.
* Samoan, Cook Island Maori, Tongan, Other Pacific
31
“Health and Wellbeing
of Young Tongans
Brought Up In an
Extended Family Home
Setting in New Zealand”
Langitoto Helu
Extended-family home setting is a result of
distribution of major decision making responsibilities
beyond parents to include either grandparents, other
relatives, spouse partners or friends. Extended-family
home setting is more obvious when those that act as
parents are others but not the real parents or when
children have more than one home.
Supportive, safe and caring homes and families
are essential to the health and wellbeing of young
people. Young people need adults who care about them,
support them, supervise and look out for them
(McLaren, 2002). They also need meaningful
participation in family life, high expectations for their
behaviour, and safety from physical and emotional harm
(Osofsky, 1995). These qualities can be more tenable in
an extended-family home setting than the norm which is
a Pakeha single home setting.
Young Tongans brought up in an extended-family
home setting is a common practice in Tongan culture
and communities and is regarded as an advantage in
parenting, as summed up by the saying that 'it takes a
village to raise a child' (Mahina, 2009; Potauaine and
Mahina, 2009; Helu, 1999).
However, most (75%) of Tongan students
surveyed in New Zealand lived in one home, with 25%
living in two or more homes. While mothers and fathers
were the most common people acting as parents for
students, a parent’s partner or other relatives acting as
parents were relatively common.
Of the Pacific students living in one home 83%
lived with both parents, whereas for those having several
homes, 66% lived with both parents in their main home
and a further 26% lived with both parents in their second
home.
I will attempt to contrast health and wellbeing of
Young New Zealand Tongans brought up in a single
home (Pakeha home setting) and those nurtured in a
natural Tongan extended-family home setting, using
findings from the University of Auckland Youth’07
Survey.
32
"Lele Atu 'o 'Omai ha
Mekitānolo!": Frequent
Fast‐Food Flyers”
O. Fahina TavakePasi
Brenda Ralls, PhD
About 27% of all meals in the U.S. are eaten away
from home, a good proportion of which are purchased at
fast food restaurants. Fast-food flyer’s consumption is
linked to obesity and related health problems. Pacific
Islanders have high rates of obesity. The National
Tongan American Society (NTAS), based in Salt Lake
City, invests considerable resources in improving health
and reducing obesity among Pacific Islanders in Utah.
Anecdotal information suggests that fast food
consumption is a major contributor to obesity in the
Tongan population.
In 2008, NTAS conducted the “Healthy Living in
the Tongan American Community Survey” to better
understand demographic and lifestyle-related links to
obesity rates among its community members. This study
was limited to Tongan adults, aged 18 and over (n=347).
Logistic regression and cross-tabulations were used in
the analyses.
More than half (54.2%) of respondents were
obese (BMI 30+). Two-fifths (42.7%) reported
consuming fast food three or more times a week
(frequent-flyer consumers). Unadjusted odds for obesity
among frequent consumers were twice (2.0) that for less
frequent consumers (p<.01). Characteristics significantly
associated with frequent consumption included: (1)
engagement in physical activity less than three times a
week, (2) living in households with seven or more
residents, (3) being under age 35, (4) being U.S.-born,
and (5) regularly consuming either sugar-sweetened or
diet soft drinks.
Obesity is a complex issue, but identifying one
lifestyle behavior and understanding it in depth helps
increase the effectiveness of interventions and healthychoice
community education, as promoted by NTAS.
Learning Objectives:
• Participants will understand the link between
fast-food consumption and obesity among Utah
Tongan Americans.
• Participants will learn characteristics associated
with frequent fast-food consumption.
• Participants will be aware of interventions
developed to increase healthy food choices.
33
“Moanan Perspectives
on Cultural Competency
within the Doctor‐
Patient Relationship”
Jacob Fitisemanu
Anecdotal reports from PI communities support
the body of literature that suggests that institutional
racism and cultural insensitivity pose significant
problems in America’s healthcare systems. Focus group
discussions and dyadic interviews with ethnic Tongan
and Sāmoan patients were conducted to formally gather
qualitative and quantitative information regarding
patient-provider interactions at Salt Lake County
healthcare facilities. Oral reports reveal that a
significant cohort of participants feel uncomfortable
with modern healthcare due to communication barriers,
"unfriendly" and "impatient" medical providers,
perceived intolerance of indigenous healing customs,
and financial obstacles. It is also noted that many
participants who regularly seek Western medical care
also seek treatment by traditional practitioners,
indicating perpetuation of indigenous healing arts such
as fotofota, amoamo, tolotolo, and vaihaka in Salt Lake
County, Utah.
“THE POPAO MODEL:
A Pacific Recovery and
Strength Concept in
Mental Health”
Taitoko Tafa
The Popao or outrigger canoe has been used as a
metaphorical model for mental health service users’ and
professionals’ shared understanding of the treatment
process as a ‘journey’ towards recovery and strength
within a Pacific paradigm.
The popao is primarily designed for use within the
lagoon, not for open sea. Thus, the need to be well
prepared for the journey and being familiar with both the
lagoon and the use of the popao will ensure a desired
destination is reached.
AIM :
The intended outcome of this recovery and
strength model is for consumers to ultimately become
34
independent and able to charter their own journey, with
the reassurance that professionals can re-embark the
Popao if and when the need arises.
The Sea represents the sea of Life.
The Consumer board the canoe they bring their
paddle/oar, which symbolises their strength. They would
occupy the place where they can both row and steer the
canoe, and therefore direct the journey. They are in
control of their destination.
The professionals come on board, they bring their
strength (oars) so that they can contribute to the journey.
The environment consists of the physical nature of a
lagoon, which may include:
Reefs Sea weed Sand bars Fish traps Waves Wind Sun
Sea current
BEACH :
When a person reaches their goal, we call that ‘Arriving
at the Beach’. We celebrate the achievement with the
community.
WELCOME HOME :
The ‘MA’U KAVA’ is the traditional concept of
welcome and relates to the complex rituals of encounter
which is an ongoing tradition within the Tongan culture.
The ‘ouau’ or protocol of the ‘Ma’u Kava’ is based on
the concept of ‘Tauhi ‘Eiki’ (responsibility towards the
Royals and Nobles-status) and tapu (sacredness of
relationships). This is how peace, harmony and power are
observed in Tongan society.
THE COMMUNITY :
The ‘Fofola e Fala ka e fai e Talanga Model’ is based on
the traditional concept of NGAFA duty/responsibility)
and VA (relationship/negotiation space). The consumer
35
is back home to his own people.
CONCLUSION :
It is believed that this model, a Tongan based framework
towards a clients recovery plan, is useful in measuring
client progress and most applicable.
“Piki piki hama kae vae
vae manava' – A Cultural
Framework for
Supervising Pasifika
Research Students”
Dr. Ema WolfgrammFoliaki
‘Piki piki hama kae vae vae manava’ is a Tongan
metaphor used in this context to re-conceptualise the
relationship between supervisors and Pacific (Pasifika)
research students.
Piki piki in Tongan is to hold on, and ama refers
to the outrigger of the canoe. Hence, the phrase means
‘to hold on or (re)connect with the outrigger of the
canoe’. The outrigger of any canoe symbolises balance,
whenever there is movement it is without hesitation that
the fisherman holds onto the outrigger in order to
maintain balance and ultimately to ensure survival. Vae
vae in Tongan means to share and manava is one’s
stomach or rather the place where life originates from
and is therefore symbolic of life. As manava is where
life begins thus in referring to vae vae manava one is
making reference to the ultimate sharing – the sharing of
life.
In the early history of Tonga, this metaphor was
used to refer to a fleet of canoes travelling towards a
common destination. Along the journey the canoes
would stop to (re)connect their outriggers in order to
redistribute resources such as food and water and to
ensure the welfare of all travellers. This system ensured
that each boat reached their final destination and goal.
Supervision of research students has been
described as the most advanced level of teaching in
higher education, but at the same time, is also one of
many complexities. What exits in the literature strongly
points to good supervision as pivotal to successful
completion of research students. However, there is a
lack of literature on cross cultural supervision and of the
research journey of indigenous students. What we do
know, is that there is a need to reconceptualise how
supervisors work with indigenous students, in this case
Pasifika students, and for a different approach to
research support. Thus the present paper suggests that
the relationship of Pasifika research students and their
supervisors can be constructed within the cultural
framework of the above metaphor. This paper also
explores how both parties can maintain and nurture their
36
relationship based on a greater sense of understanding
and cultural responsibility towards one another.
Emphasis is placed on the need for support to be at
regulated points throughout the research journey and for
students and supervisors to recognise that ‘nurturing’
their relationship is critical to achieving successful
outcomes.
“Western‐Moanan
Theory of Space (Vā),
Time (Tā) and the
Categories ('ū
Tefito'iangama'u):
Obligation/Fatongia a
Philosophy of Life”
Siosiua F.P. Lafitani
(Tofua'ipangai)
This is a new work in progress with its emphasis on the
scientific and philosophical analysis regarding the
changeable, pluralistic, complex and conflicting
characters of the Western and Moanan theories of space
(va),time (ta) and the categories (‘u tefito’iangama’u).
Logically, the scientific and philosophical writings of
Aristotle, Immanuel Kant, Samuel Alexander and John
Anderson are examined with a particular reference to
Mahina and Ka’ili’s Moanan theory of ta (time) and va
(space) with its fuo (form) and uho (content)
connection and Helu’s theory of change in spatiotemporality
(space-time). As a case in point, this
presentation further highlights a theoretical conception
of perceiving obligation/fatongia as a philosophy of life
(i.e. way of working) within, and across, different
genders, ages, social classes and cultures in va, ta and
‘u tefito’iangama’u inter-connectedness. This
scientific and philosophical analysis of such theories
has signified that the claim of fatongia as a philosophy
of life is universal within va, ta and ‘u
tefito’iangama’u inter-connectedness. Fatongia
therefore occurs within the medium of genders, ages,
social classes and cultures in va, ta and ‘u
tefito’iangama’u, and its characters are determined and
characterized by the nature of such an interconnectedness,
with the permanence of fuo and uho
within themselves. In short, such characters are based
on the ontological explanations of ta, va and ‘u
tefito’iangama’u, as well as, how they are
epistemologically perceived and arranged by
individuals in a given social milieu.
37
“Takohi: Drawing in
Tongan Thinking and
Practice”
Hūfanga Dr. 'Okusitino
Māhina
This paper will examine the Tongan concept and
praxis takohi (drawing), critiqued in the broader context
of the tā-vā (time-space) theory of art, a derivative of the
new tā-vā theory of reality. Philosophically, here are a
couple of general and specific tenets: that all things, in
nature, mind and society, stand in eternal relations of
exchange, giving rise to conflict or order; and that
conflict and order are of the same logical status, in that
order is itself a form of conflict. These ever-lasting
exchange relations formally and substantially exist in
physical, psychological and social terms, such as
intersecting lines, opposing ideas and competing human
demands. Art can be generally defined as tā-vā
transformation, where conflicts in the fuo (form) and uho
(content) of things are symmetrically arbitrated in the
creative process. A tool of line-space intersection, takohi
will be reflected upon, in both abstract and concrete
ways, with specific examples drawn from across the
three divisions of Tongan art, viz., tufunga (material),
faiva (performance) and nimamea`a (fine) arts.
Examples from our new series on children’s books will
also be used. This paper relates to Sēmisi Fetokai
Potauaine’s paper on tatau (symmetry). However, the
term takohi can be generally accounted for as the tā
(marking) of vā (space) by means of kohi or tohi (lines).
Specifically, the word takohi points to the rhythmic
production of `ata (images) through kohi-vā (line-space)
intersection. The temporal production of images involves
the mediation of opposing formal and substantial
tendencies at the interface of line and space. By
symmetrically mediating tensions underpinning the fuo
and uho of subject matters under investigation, they are
spatio-temporally transformed from a condition of
felekeu (crisis) to a state of maau (stasis). This sustained
yet intensified state of potupotutatau (harmony) is itself
mālie or faka`ofo`ofa (beauty).
“Tatau: Intersecting
Times, Intersecting
Spaces”
Sēmisi F. Potauaine
This paper is based on a chapter of my MA thesis in
architecture at the University of Auckland, New
Zealand, titled “Tectonic of the fale: Four-dimensional,
three-divisional”. My theorising of the paper, as well as
the thesis, has been highly influenced by the works of
Professor `Okusitino Māhina, Dr Tēvita O. Ka`ili and
Sopolemalama Filipe Tohi, in the fields of anthropology
and aesthetics. In particular, these strong influences are
38
grounded in the tā-vā, time-space theory of reality,
jointly developed by Professor Māhina and Dr Ka`ili,
and the master art tufunga lalava, developed by Tohi.
The concept of tatau, which, amongst other things,
basically means symmetry, mirror-image, same and
equal, is historically rooted in cultural practices of
people, linking nature, mind and society. My theoretical
inquiry into tatau revolves around the tā-vā theory,
which recognises the fact that all things, in reality, stand
in eternal relations of exchange, giving rise to order and
conflict, and tufunga lalava, the material art of linespace
intersection.
“The 'Uhinga (meaning)
of 'Uhinga (identity)”
Dr. Melenaite
Taumoefolau
This paper is an exploration of the Tongan
concept(s) of ‘Uhinga. I use techniques from historical
comparative linguistics as well as notions in
morphology and phonology to investigate ‘uhinga for its
various meanings and senses. I hope to be able to
establish the etymology of the word, its cognates in
various related languages, its doublets, and a listing of
meanings and senses, including figurative meanings.
From a consideration of the meanings and senses of
‘uhinga, I share some ideas about identity. One of these
is that “identity” is something of a foreign concept in
Tongan, and this is partly shown by the fact that it has
no ready translational equivalent. In the Tongan worldview,
one’s identity is less about one’s individuality or
self as one’s collective genealogical ties and places of
origin. Tongan language has literary genres used to
express this notion of identity. I consider these literary
practices called laumātanga (reciting scenic spots) and
laukakala (reciting fragrant flowers), providing
illustrations from some of Queen Sālote’s compositions.
I hypothesise that these speech forms romanticise and
thereby consolidate one’s vā (space between,
relationship) with one’s roots, giving one feelings of
nostalgia for and emotional attachment with the fonua
(land). I touch also on the Tongan practice of using
hingoa matāpule. Use of such ceremonial names further
strengthens one’s vā with the homeland and provides
solidarity among Tongans everywhere. Without the
Tongan language, Tongans raised overseas may lack
these emotional ties expressible through the language.
39
“Implications of Moana
Functional Versus
Western Mechanistic
Categorization in
Tongan Word
Comprehension”
Helen Ferris Leary
An exploration and comparison of approaches to,
and implications from categorizing Tongan words
according to post-translational Western mechanistic
linear meaning groups, versus their native Moana
circular four dimensional relational (functional)
groupings.
It is proposed that Tongan words and their deeper
meanings can better be accessed and understood by
grouping them with other Tongan words based on their
apparent native Moana relational qualities. Contrary to
this, it is proposed that categorizing words and word
meanings in post-translational mechanistic linear
conceptualized groups, such as Western subject
categories, can be at best misleading. When the same
words are categorized under apparent relational
(functional) groupings within their native Moana based
circular four dimensional relational identity group for
instance, entirely different meanings and relations may
become explicit, and further layers of relational
meaning and comprehension may more easily emerge.
“Comparison of Tongan
and Samoan Respect
Vocabularies”
Vavao Fetui
Dr. Melenaite
Taumoefolau
In this paper we take a close look at the Samoan
and Tongan respect vocabularies with a view to
discovering the extent to which they are similar or
different. We begin with an introduction on the
different social levels of Tongan and Samoan,
identifying the context where the respect vocabularies fit
in. Tongan has the regal vocabulary, the chiefly
vocabulary, the polite (but non-chiefly) level of speech
used formally (lea fakamatāpule), the neutral level of
speech used between social equals, the self-derogatory
level, and the language of abuse. Samoan has similar
social levels to Tongan. Attention will be focused
mainly on fa‘amatai, which has within it varieties
appropriate for ali‘i (chief), tūlāfale (orator), and
members of the clegy and elite classes. We hypothesise
that the vā (relationship) between a commoner and a
chief is tapu (delicate), because a chief’s person is tapu
(sacred). So addressing a chief requires a particular way
of speaking (respect vocabulary) so that one does not
break the tapu. Respect words are used to speak
“around” the person of the chief, so instead of
addressing the chief’s person, one addresses the place
where he/she is (feitu‘u na). Words for bodily functions
and everyday actions tend not to be used of chiefs
40
because they are too direct. Respect words for such
actions are metaphorical and tend to soften and
euphmise the action. Thus, instead of saying to a
paramount chief/ king, “Come and take a bath (ha‘u ‘o
kaukau)”, one says “Proceed hither (hā‘ele mai) and be
soothed (‘o fakamālū)”. We discuss terms that have a
general literal meaning in the neutral everyday language
which is replaced in the respect vocabulary by a respect
word that is metaphorical. Moreover, it seems that
several Samoan words, or adapted forms of those words,
appear in the Tongan respect vocabulary. We
hypothesise that in the past, many Samoans were chiefly
in Tonga and had to be addressed respectfully in
Samoan, hence the Samoan words in the Tongan
respectful terminology.
“Koe Hala Kuo Papa –
Multiple Pathways to
Literacy”
Dr. 'Ema WolfgrammFoliaki
‘Ko e Hala Kuo Papa’ is a Tongan metaphor
used here to illustrate the multiple pathways that Tongan
children take to acquire literacy. The metaphor is widely
used within the Tongan context to refer to a path that is
well used or frequently walked; as such leaving a visible
pathway for others to follow. For those that use this well
trodden pathway, it can be argued that there is
reassurance in knowing that the path has been travelled
by others. Therefore, the danger of losing one’s way is
minimised as the path is clearly obvious.
This study examines the literacy practices of a
group of Tongan preschool children across three sites:
home, a language nest and Sunday school. A significant
feature of the study is its ability to capture the essence
of what takes place in these sites, which have previously
been described as lacking in literacy, by providing
detailed descriptions of families’ literacy activities. In
doing so, this study proposes that the above sites are
indeed ‘resource full’. More importantly, the sites
provide this group of Tongan children with
opportunities to experience and develop multiple forms
of literacy before entering school. The role of the church
and Sunday school in early childhood education was
also found to be critical to the experiences of the
children.
The methodology used is borrowed from several
Pacific frameworks, as an attempt to conduct this
research in a way that is culturally appropriate. The
results provide us with detailed descriptions of each
child, his/her family and their literacy practices. Central
41
to the findings of this study are parents’ and caregivers’
own reflections of their practices together with their
ideas and beliefs around those practices. Further, the
results of this study offer possibilities of how continuity
between sites can be enhanced to ensure that effective
transition takes place for Tongan children.
“GEM Tonga”
Prof. Robert Davis
Malia Talakai
Dr. Asoka Gunaratne
Malama Solomona
Stephen Cox
Judith King
The Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) is a
not for profit academic research consortium. The
consortium has as its goal making the production of high
quality international research data on entrepreneurial
activity which can be readily available to as wide an
audience as possible. GEM is the largest single study of
entrepreneurial activity in the world. It was initiated in
1999 with 10 countries and in 2008 it conducted research
in 43 countries. In 2009, GEM Pacific was launched
with the first phase starting in Tonga. The research in
Tonga consisted of a 1) household survey and 2) of a
national experts’ survey and interviews. This
presentation will focus on some key findings from the
national experts’ quantitative and qualitative part of the
project, highlighting 1) factors that constraint
entrepreneurial activities 2) factors that promote
enterprise and 3) key areas that the national experts
recommended for improvements.
“Bilingual Education in
Vava'u”
Dr. Nancy L. Drescher
Many issues are involved in the examination of
any bilingual education program, but the situation in
developing countries such as the Kingdom of Tonga is
even more complex because educational systems in
many of these countries are largely modeled on
Eurocentric beliefs, contexts, and practices. In Tonga,
the Ministry of Education has traditionally provided a
uniform syllabus/curriculum for teachers throughout the
country. Despite the fact that Tonga is the only
Polynesian country that has never been colonized, the
education system is still largely based on a British
system of education. The model of bilingual education
to which the kingdom officially subscribes provides that
students begin learning English in their first year of
formal education and by the equivalent of 5th grade are
taught 50/50 in Tongan and English. Their secondary
education is then taught primarily in English, with the
exception of Tongan Language and Culture classes.
Though the expectations are said to be uniform
42
throughout the country, the actual practices and
definitions of bilingual education vary greatly from
school to school and even class to class. Additionally,
the levels of preparation and ongoing professional
development vary widely from place to place. The
curricula and the various practices associated with it,
therefore, have a full range of results.
The current research study used ethnographic
research methods. Data were gathered by attending a
range of schools in Vava’u to observe practices and
participate in teaching. Interviews were conducted with
education officers, administrators, teachers, and students.
The participants in this study suggested many issues and
improvements that might be made as the country
undergoes its current education reform.
“Lea mo e Taimi: A
Study on the Language
of the Tongan
Hymnbook”
'Ikani Fakasi'i'eiki
This bilingual presentation will explore the
language of the Tongan Wesleyan hymn book: 1) to use
the hymns as a window to reveal the life experience in
Tonga at the particular time when the hymns were
composed and translated (from English to Tongan), 2) to
show through comparing these hymns that they were
composed by Tongans and not by the missionaries, 3) and
to revisit the theology and ideology in the hymns in
relation to the divisions in the church.
"Lōlenga Fakamotu:
Talanoa‐'eiki‐o‐Tonga"
Rev. Dr. Jione Havea
This bi-lingual presentation will (1) challenge the
privileging of Western modes of thinking and
theologizing, (2) call for island-conditioned ways
of imagination and making connections (fakahoko,
fakafetu'utaki), (3) by shifting the theological-navel from
"tala 'Otua" (usual translation for theology), which tends
to be a Western project, to "talanoa-'eiki-o-Tonga," which
will both affirm the practice of talanoa and engage the
presence of the divine ('eiki) in Tonga. At the theological
front, I will shift attention from the transcendent 'Otua to
the manifested 'eiki-o-Tonga; at the cultural front, I will
unpack the illusion that hou'eiki are 'eiki (divine) and
argue that 'eiki-o-Tonga has more to do with manatu
(memory), fonua (land) and 'inasi (struggle). Those make
up the fa'unga of lōlenga fakamotu, to which others might
add and interweave.
43
"Ko e 'Api 'a Fafine"
and Women Doing
Theology”
Lousiale‘
oLopakitea
Uasikē
Some Tongan women are now dancing so
gracefully to the melody of a changing time since the era
of our former beloved, Queen Salote of Tonga. They are
active participants in production, consumption, and to
certain extend decision making relating to their health,
access to education, economy, legal and political rights
and their vast emerging important roles in church such as
doing theology.
However, in performance as women of God, they
often met oppositions that question their “rights, and
qualifications” to be leaders and arbiters of such important
issues to women such as ideas, actions, vision, and hope.
Thus, the traditional social concept of “’Api ‘a fafine”
(home belongs to women) is frequently brought to the
forefront. It is associated with the traditionally ascribed
status of women as “highly respected,” “superior,” and
“occupying privileged positions in society.”
This paper attempts to explore how this concept of
“’Api ‘a fafine” is sometimes used in arguments against
women who “step out of their place” (the home). At times
such arguments make the ‘api sound like a detention
centre for women (wives, mothers and daughters), and
may have the result of trapping women in a situation of
denying, diminishing or distorting their full humanity.
Theologizing around this situation will lead this paper to a
consideration of what it means for Tongan women to “do
theology,” and will suggest ways in which Tongan women
who are involved in theological reflection can promote the
full humanity of women.
“Tonga's First Lapita
Pots and What They
Can Tell Us of
Polynesian Origins”
David V. Burley
William R. Dickinson
Radiocarbon dates, Lapita ceramic styles and other
data securely identify the village of Nukuleka at the entry
to Fanga’Uta Lagoon on Tongatapu, Tonga, as
Polynesia’s first settlement. Excavations in 2007,
combined with earlier research in the mid 1960s,
recovered ceramic shards from a minimum of 16 Lapita
pots that, visually, are aberrant relative to earthenware
pottery typical of Tongan archaeological sites. Both xray
fluorescence spectrography and petrographic microscopy
indicate a source origin foreign to Tonga. Many of the
decorative motifs on these pots are characteristic of early
Lapita sites in island Melanesia leading us to suggest their
transport on founding canoes. Identification of the
geological source for the pottery serves as a proxy to
identify the immediate origins of Polynesia’s first settlers.
44
These data challenge orthodox interpretations of Lapita
colonization of Remote Oceania.
“Hikusila 'o e
Talafa'unga”
Viliami Toluta'u
Earlier in history, when a sailboat or a ship is seen
from afar; the first sight of it, as noticed above the horizon
- is the tip of its top sail (hikusila). From the tip of the
sail, one can tell the nature of the ship - whether is a
'kalia' or an European tall ship.
Figuratively speaking, 'heliaki' is like the 'hikusila' in the
Tongan language; it is (as the hikusila) the proverbial
form of Tongan linguistics wherein the depth of its oral
traditions and cultures are hidden. Europeans who first
arrived in Tonga were confused by this metaphoric nature
and indirect meanings of this poetic form (heliaki); as a
results their historical documentations were based on their
partial understanding of 'heliaki'. They documented the
cultural history of the Pacific based on their own
interpretations of what they understood it to be.Such
misconceptions of 'Tongan heliaki' adds different flavors
to the traditions and history. It is necessary to correct such
misinterpretations, so that most of Tongan oral traditions
and history can be recited as actual historical events, and
not be catagorized inclusively with folklores and legends.
“A Very Long Way
from Home: The
Context, Age and
Implications for a
Hawaiian‐style
Petroglyph Site at
Houmale'eia, Foa
Island, Ha'apai”
David V. Burley
Shane Egan
In December of 2008, the authors recorded a
Hawaiian-like petroglyph site at Houmale‘eia on the
northern end of Foa Island in the Ha’apai group of Tonga.
Triangular bodied people, human feet, dogs, turtles and a
variety of other images provide an artistic tapestry
comparable only to Hawaiian rock art sites of the period
1400-1600 AD. Aspects of the imagery, including
possible representations of the Hawaiian god Lono, a
Hawaiian chiefly headdress, and a surfer, further suggest
Hawaiian cultural knowledge. The implications of
Houmale‘eia as evidence for long distance voyaging,
East/West Polynesian interactions and cultural exchange,
as well as Tongan/Hawaiian traditional histories are
addressed.
45
“Takavaha: Ancient
Contacts between
Tonga and Vaihi
(Hawai'i)”
Dr. Tēvita O. Ka'ili
This paper examines the ancient contacts between
Tonga and Vaihi (Hawai'i). It proposes that there were at
least two major waves of ancient migration between
Tonga and Vaihi. The first wave began in the time of the
Tangaloa (Kanaloa) and the Maui clans. The second wave
occurred in the era of the Lo'au chiefly class (La'au Ali'i) –
also known as the tufunga (kahuna) class or the Tongafisi
(Konohiki) class (e.g., Lo'au Tongafisifonua). This papers
uses oral traditions (e.g., Maui Kisikisi & Maui Ki'iki'i)
and linguistics (e.g., Lo'au & La'au) to provide evidence
for the ancient contacts between Tongan and Vaihi. It also
employs the Tongan concept and practice of takavaha – to
circulate in the open sea – to argue that Moana (Oceanian)
ancient migrations were manifestations of the circular
arrangement of tā (time) and vā (space). Takavaha is an
expression of tā (taka) and vā (vaha). The paper uses the
tā-vā, time-space, theory of reality – developed by
Hūfanga Dr. 'Okusitino Māhina – to explain why takavaha
(ongoing migrations) between Tonga and Vaihi were
important in ancient times.
“Documentary on First
Tongan Americans to
Immigrate to San
Francisco”
Lisa Lavulo
Sela Fo'ukimoana
On September 24th, 1964, President Lyndon B.
Johnson signed legislation recognizing the Kingdom of
Tonga as an independent nation. Untitled: Tongan
American Pioneers documents the challenges leading up
to this momentous occasion through the eyes of some of
the first Tongan American immigrants, and the attorney,
who represented them while fearlessly challenging the
U.S. State Department’s discriminatory immigration laws
of the 1950s and ‘60s.
“Education, Family and
the Economy: A
Community Outlook
on the Lives of
Tongans in the Bay
Area/
Ako, Famili mo e
'EkonÔmika: Ko Ha
Vakai fakaekolo ki he
Mo'ui 'a e Tonga 'i he
bay area”
As the San Francisco bay area was, and continues, to
be an entrance porter for Tongan migration, it is important
to look at how Tongans fare in the Bay Area, what
challenges, barriers and successes they face and how that
may affect current and future Tongan generations not only
in the Bay Area but in the United States as a whole.
Panelists:
Rev. Maile Koloto
Rev. Heilala 'Ahio
Leafā Taumoepeau
Janine MoleniMoa
Malina Wolfgramm
Pres. Taimani Lautī
46
BIOGRAPHIES
David V. Burley
Topics of general interest and teaching specialty areas include archaeology and
ethnohistory, chiefly societies, historical archaeology, archaeological resource
management, Oceanian, and northwest North America. Recent field projects have
been carried out in the Republic of Fiji, the Kingdom of Tonga, and the Yukon
Territory of Canada.
Dr. David Burley is with the Department of Archaeology, Simon Fraser University,
Burnaby, B.C. This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
‘Ofa Dewes
‘Ofa Dewes, MBA, is a Research Fellow with the Obesity Prevention in
Communities (OPIC) project at the School of Population Health (Pacific Health),
University of Auckland. The focus of her doctoral thesis is obesity prevention in
47
Pacific churches. Before joining the University of Auckland in 2005, ‘Ofa worked in
management roles in the private sector in NZ and the United Nations Development
Program in Fiji.
Other research experience include collecting the OPIC baseline data, training
research teams in Fiji and Tonga, consulting with church leaders and organising a
community workshop to develop the church intervention objectives, coordinating a
development program for emerging Pacific health researchers, facilitating Pacific
consultations on the review of the evidence base and development of the national
guidelines for the management of overweight and obesity, recruiting participants to
eGAME study, and presenting to local and international conferences.
‘Ofa is Fiji‐born of Rotuman, Tongan and Tuvaluan descent.
Nancy L. Drescher
Nancy L. Drescher is an associate professor at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
Her primary teaching responsibilities include courses in the MA:TESL program and
the K‐12 ESL licensure program. Her research focuses on Second Language
Acquisition, language teaching, computer based language analysis, and is
particularly interested in the sociolinguistic and pragmatic elements of language
use. Her interest in Tonga began with a Peace Corps assignment with the Ministry
of Education and Taufa’ahau‐Pilolevu College in 1992‐1995 and has continued and
grown over the years as she has continued her education in the field.
48
‘Ikani Fakasi’i’eiki
'Ikani Fakasi’i’eiki is a Ph.D. student at the Graduate Theological Union. I did my B. Div.
at Siaatoutai Theological College, an M.T.S. at Pacific Theological College in Suva, Fiji,
M.T.S. courses at Claremont School of Theology towards an M.A. in Biblical Languages
from PSR/GTU.
Vavao Fetui
Vavao Fetui is convenor of Samoan courses in Pacific Studies, Arts Faculty, the
University of Auckland. Vavao graduated with an MA and BA in Education from the
University of Auckland, a postgraduate Diploma of Teaching English as a Second
Language from Victoria University of Wellington, and had obtained a New Zealand
Trained Teacher Diploma after attending the former Ardmore Teachers` Training
College at Papakura. Vavao has wide teaching experiences both at primary and
secondary schools in Samoa and in New Zealand. He was appointed by the New
Zealand Ministry of Education as principal writer of the Samoan in the New Zealand
Curriculum Framework. He was one of the reviewers of the same document Ta`iala
mo le Gagana Sāmoa – The Gagana Sāmoa Guidelines in 2008/09. Vavao`s research
interest lies in the field of sociolinguistics, lexicography, and Samoan linguistics. He
is currently researching the Samoan language of respect as well as accentuation in
Samoan.
49
Jacob Fitisemanu
Jacob James Mālietoa Talavou Siu Lung Fitisemanu was born in Te Whanganui‐a‐
Tara, Aotearoa (Wellington, New Zealand) to Karen Jun Lin Dang of Kaimukī,
Hawai‘i and Jacob Sauaga Seiuliali‘i Fitisemanu of Falefā, Sāmoa. Jake studied Social
Sciences and Anthropology at Westminster College in Salt Lake City where he lives
with his wife, Lucia. An avid fan of reggae music, Asian food, and outrigger paddling,
Jake is currently a second‐year medical student at the University of Utah School of
Medicine.
Sela Foukimoana
Born and raised in Seattle, WA, Sela Foukimoana moved to Los Angeles in 1998 to
earn her Bachelor of Arts from Loyola Marymount University (LMU) where she
studied Visual Arts and Asian Pacific American Studies as an LMU Leadership
Scholar. With a strong interest in film and media, Sela has worked on various
narrative and experimental films and commercials, and written numerous music
video treatments for a variety of local artists. While at LMU, she explored the use of
documentary and experimental films as a means for Asian/Pacific Islander identity
development. In her extracurricular time, Sela established LMU’s Asian Pacific
American Student Organization, its annual Asian/Pacific American Film Festival, and
Passion, an alternative campus‐wide publication highlighting the arts and social
justice issues. She is currently in production on a feature‐length documentary about
the first Tongan American immigrants to the San Francisco area.
50
Linda Ghys
Linda Ghys is a PhD candidate with the School of Communication, University of
South Australia and is the holder of an Australian Postgraduate Award and a Full
Spectrum Scholarship. Her current research critically examines print media
discourse in representations of Indigenous Australians who are substance abusers.
This research will also consider how application of some of the aspects of the
cultural safety concept might be applied to journalism education/journalism
practice. Linda also coordinates the external component of the course
Communication, Culture and Indigenous Australians and is completing the Graduate
Certificate in Education (University Teaching).
Jione Havea
Rev. Dr. Jione Havea (BA, MDiv, MTS, PHD) is a lecturer in Biblical Studies (Hebrew Bible) and Old Testament.
Rev. Dr. Haavea is a native of Tonga, ordained by the Methodist Church of Tonga, but now living in Australia, learning various cultural modes of thinking, reading and
behaving, as those relate to, and are driven and coerced by, biblical and popular
texts. Now and then he congregates with islanders at Parklea Prison, listening to
their stories and giving of himself to their experiences. At other time, he enjoy a
good laugh with the Fofo‘anga mob over a bowl of kava and a deck of cards.
51
S. Langitoto Helu
Research Fellow
Adolescent Health Research Group
School of Population Health
University of Auckland
Tevita Orson Ka’ili
Tevita Orson Ka'ili's parents and grandparents are from Kolofo'ou, Kolonga, Hā'ano,
Pangai, Neiafu, Tu'anuku, and Koloa. He also has ancestral ties to Fiji, Rotuma, and Samoa. He is married to Elizabeth Rago Tekaha – a Maori from the Ngāpuhi tribe in Aotearoa. Tevita graduated from Brigham Young University Hawai'i, University of Utah, and the University of Washington. He has bachelor's degrees in accounting and psychology, master's degrees in social work and anthropology, and a Ph.D. in anthropology. His doctoral dissertation used the general tā‐vā, time‐space, theory of reality – developed by Hūfanga Dr. 'Okusitino Māhina – to examine the sociocultural expression of tā‐vā within the Tongan practice of tauhi vā, the spatiotemporal maintenance of social relations. He conducted his ethnographic fieldwork among Tongans in Maui, Hawai'i from 2004‐2005. Tevita's research interests include the cultural arrangement of tā (time) and vā (space), indigenous anthropology, transnationalism, and Tongan classical language. Tevita is currently an assistant professor in the International Cultural Studies & World Languages department at Brigham Young University Hawai'i. He teaches courses in cultural anthropology and
Pacific Islands studies.
52
Siosiua F.P. Lafitani
Siosiua F.P.Lafitani (aka.Tofua’ipangai)
Australian Catholic University, Signadou Campus & Lo’au Research Society,
Canberra Branch, ACT AUSTRALIA, International Conference, Tonga Research
Association, . Elizabeth “Lisa” Lavulo
Elizabeth Lavulo studied Media and Visual Arts at Emerson College in Boston, MA
and after serving a Mormon mission, had her heart set on pursuing a career in her
field of study. This goal led her to Hollywood in 2005 and since then she has worked on various productions in both the music and film industries. She is currently producing a feature‐length documentary and hopes to continue producing work that promotes family roots, heritage, and the ever‐evolving Tongan American culture.
53
Helen Ferris Leary
After a long professional career as a choreographer and dancer,
specializing in indigenous dance forms, I am now completing my PhD in
Pacific studies at Auckland University.
Helen Lee
Helen Lee is an associate professor in anthropology in the School of Social Sciences
at La Trobe University. Since the 1980s her research has focused on the people of
Tonga, both in their home islands in the South Pacific and in the diaspora,
particularly in Australia. Her doctoral research on Tongan childhood was published
in 1996 as Becoming Tongan: an ethnography of childhood (Helen Morton). Helen’s
more recent work has been with the Tongan diaspora (see Tongans overseas:
between two shores, 2003) and more recently she has been researching second
generation Tongan transnationalism. She co‐edited with Steve Tupai Francis
Migration and transnationalism: Pacific perspectives (2009). The key themes of
Helen’s research have been children and youth, cultural identity and migration and
transnationalism.
54
Hūfanga `Okusitino Māhina
Hūfanga `Okusitino Māhina holds BA, MA (Hons) and PhD degrees in Sociology,
Anthropology and Pacific History. He was awarded several prestigious awards:
Senior Scholar in Anthropology, University of Auckland (UoA); Te Rangi Hiroa/Sir
Peter Buck Senior Scholar in Anthropology, including Maori Studies, NZ Universities;
Annual Excellence in Anthropology Prize, MA, UoA; and Creative NZ Heritage Arts
Award. Hūfanga has taught at Tonga’s `Atenisi University and Auckland’s Massey
University, as well as Moana political economy and Moana arts in Anthropology at
UoA. He was Director of `Atenisi Institute, and Dean of `Atenisi University, where he
was Professor of Tongan Studies, 1997‐99. Hūfanga is Founder‐Director of Vava`u
Academy for Critical Inquiry and Applied Research, where he is Professor of Tongan
Studies. He has authored, co‐authored and co‐edited six books and a journal’s
Special Issue. His research interests include, inter alia, time and space, development
and governance and transcultural aesthetics and psychology.
Sēmisi Fetokai Potauaine
Sēmisi Fetokai Potauaine was born, bred and schooled in Tonga, where he was exposed
to such arts as tool-making, house-building and kafa-sinnet-plaiting through music,
oratory and dance to mat-weaving and bark-cloth-making. Sēmisi left Tonga for New
Zealand for further education, gaining a NDAT Diploma and BAS and BArch degrees.
He is a design tutor and a Master of Architecture student at the University of Auckland,
55
doing a thesis, entitled “Tectonic of the Fale: Four Dimensional, Three Divisional”. He is a multi-media artist working across architecture, sculpture, tattooing, painting, weaving and computer graphic designing. Sēmisi won a coveted Commonwealth Connections International Arts Residencies award for 2009. He has co-authored a book and a book chapter, and authored a journal article, as well as the principal illustrator of a new Pacific book series for children. His research interests encompass time and space, culture and language, theory and practice and art and literature.
Tangi Steen
Tangi Steen is a Polynesian woman from the Kingdom of Tonga. Tangi is a Senior
Lecturer and Portfolio Leader ‐ Teaching and Learning at the David Unaipon College
of Indigenous Education and Research (DUCIER) within the Division of Education,
Arts and Social Sciences, University of South Australia. Tangi teaches a number of
ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) courses in the undergraduate
programs as well as supervising Honours, Masters and PhD students.
Tangi’s research interest is in the area of ICT education, its roles in teaching and
learning and the social diffusion of such technologies in Indigenous cultures. Tangi’s PhD research focuses on the problem solving strategies that both Indigenous and non‐Indigenous tertiary students use when they encounter difficulties in ICT. These strategies not only depend on students' level of ICT competencies but also on a number of social and cultural factors. Tangi is also interested in studying the social adjustment of Tongan diaspora in Australia.
56
Taitoko Tafa
Taitoko Tafa ( co‐ author )
Popao Tongan Group coordinator
Cultural Advisor / Counsellor and
Family Therapist
Takanga A Fohe – Pacific Mental Health and Addictions Services
Waitemata District Health Board
Auckland . New Zealand.
district Health Board catchment,
West Auckland/Northshore, Auckland,
NEW ZEALAND.
Malia Talakai
‐From Faleloa, Fakakai and Kolomotu`a
‐Currently completing PhD at University of Nijmegen, The Netherlands
‐Acting Director
Centre for Pasifika Teaching, Learning and Research
United Institute of Technology
Auckland
New Zealand
Popao Tongan Group
Established in 2005
Popao and its journey in the lagoon
Was chosen to model the recovery journey
Of the mental health Tongan consumer in
the Waitemata.
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Seini Taufa
Seini Taufa is currently studying towards a PhD in Paediatrics at the University of
Auckland. A member of the New Zealand Child and Youth Epidemiology Services
and a Senior Tutor at the School of Population Health (Social and Community
Health) her PhD looks at South Pacific Teenage Pregnancy in New Zealand.
Melenaite Taumoefolau
Dr Melenaite Taumoefolau is Senior Lecturer in Pacific Studies, Arts Faculty,
University of Auckland and Director of Pacific Language Studies.
Melenaite holds an MProfStudies (First Class Hons) and PhD from The University of
Auckland, an MA from The University of Wales (University College of North Wales,
Bangor), and a BA and CGCEd from The University of the South Pacific, Suva.
Melenaite was previously Principal of Tonga College and Senior Education Officer
(Curriculum) in the Tongan Ministry of Education. She was the first Pasifika Woman
to graduate with a PhD from the University of Auckland.
Melenaite is interested in languages as both grammatical systems and
conceptual systems. She is currently researching topics in Polynesian linguistics,
such as tense and aspect in Tongan, and stress in Samoan. She is also currently
researching words and lexical items in Tongan language for inclusion in a
monolingual Tongan dictionary.
58
Otolose Fahina TavakePasi
Fahina was born in Tatakamotonga, Tongatapu, grew up in the San Francisco bay
area and currently reside in Holladay, Utah with her family. She received her A.S. in
aeronautics, her B.A. in sociology, and currently attending the University of Utah
working on her MS degree in Health Education and Promotion. Fahina’s studies
focuses on obesity and its affect on chronic diseases among Tongans. Fahina is
currently the Executive Director for the National Tongan‐American Society where
she works to decrease health disparities among Tongans and Pacific Islanders. She is also active in promoting education, cultural promotion, legal access and injustices, etc. Fahina sits on various boards and committees. On the national level, she is currently the Chairperson for the National Diabetes Education Program (under CDC and HIH) Asian Pacific Islander workgroup, Secretary to the American Public Health
Association – Asian Pacific‐Islander Caucus. On a state level, she is an appointed
member to the Governor’s Martin Luther King Commission, and sits on the
Multicultural Health Network, Utah’s Multicultural Legal Advisory Committee, Utah
Health Department’s Diabetes Committee among others.
Fahina is the daughter of Sione Titali Tavake from Fatumu and Laumanu
Kanongata’a from Tatakamotonga. She is married to Tevita ‘Alapuku Pasi and has
five children and five grandchildren.
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Viliami Toluta’u
Birth Place..............................Pangaimotu, Vava'u
High School............................Liahona High School, 1971
Bachelor of Fine Arts........BYU‐Hawaii, 1980
Master of Fine Arts........... BYU Provo, 1983
Teaching................................ Wasilla High School ‐ Alaska, 1984‐86
Liahona High School ‐ Tonga, 1987‐91
BYU‐Hawaii, 1991‐Present
Art Commissions..............'Arrival of Captain Cook 1777' 8' X 15' bas‐relief (cement)
Tonga High School, 1976
'Taufa'ahau Tupou IV' 11foot bronze, Fua'amotu Airport 1983
'Mariner and Finau' 6' 0'' bronze Liahona High School 1997
Sione Tu’itahi
Sione Tu’itahi is an educator, public health strategist and writer. A former
journalist‐broadcaster with senior positions in editorial and management roles in
Tonga, Sione retrained and changed career when he migrated to New Zealand for
medical reasons some 15 years ago. He now shares his time between public health and education. The first Pacific Manager at the Auckland Regional Public Health Service, Sione is currently the Deputy Executive Director of the Health Promotion Forum of New Zealand. At Massey University he is a policy and strategic planning adviser. At present Sione is the Acting Director Pasifika, leading the implementation of the Pasifika@Massey Strategy, a university‐wide strategy that he co‐led its establishment in 2005. Sione has gained a Master of Public Policy (Hons) and is a PhD scholar at Massey University. He has gained qualifications in teaching,journalism, and management. As a writer, he has published bi‐lingual Tongan and English stories for children as well as non‐fiction publications.
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Lousiale 'OLopakitea Uasike
An Ordained minister of the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga, or the Methodist
Church in Tonga. A faculty member of Sia'atoutai Theological College (STC)
teaching Theology (1993‐96) and Biblical Studies: New Testament (1999‐June
2005). She is on study leave doing a Doctor of Ministry at the San Francisco
Theological Seminary (SFTS), San Anselmo, California‐U.S.A. She comes from Fahefa, Ha’ano and Vaotu’u; has two adopted children, Tonga.M.I. Uasike Jr. (nephew) and Mele Taufa'eva Uasike Jr. (niece). Participating in the process of making the connection between our faith and action. It is her interest and vision to work with the poor and marginalised especially women.
‘Ema Wolfgramm Foliaki
Dr. ‘Ema Wolfgramm‐Foliaki with her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts
(Honours) in Education from The University of Auckland in 1992. She then started
working at the Student Learning Centre as a learning advisor for the Centre's Pacific
Island programme, Fale Pasifika. Her PhD thesis examined the literacy practices of
book reading, early writing and story telling in a group of Tongan preschool children
and their families in Auckland across three sites (a Tongan language nest, their
homes and Sunday school).
'Ema is currently the Acting‐Director of the Student Learning Centre and she
plans to publish her thesis findings in various journals and to continue research into
the achievement of Pasifika students in mainstream education.