Pacific evaluation, Pasifika research, Māori engagement
Tangata o le Moana
O le maota e fola i le tōfā, ae pola i fetalaiga.
The house that is laid with principles, and protected with oratory.
We prioritise the importance of inclusion and respect for all
stakeholders’ perspectives and knowledge.
Our approach to our work is premised on components of the Fa’afaletui, Kakala and Tivaevae Pacific research methodologies.
Thaman, K. (1992) Cultural learning and development through cultural literacy, in: B. TEASDALE & J. TEASDALE (Eds) Voices in a Seashell: Education, Culture and Identity, pp. 24-36 (USP, Suva, Institute of Pacific Studies)
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Experience
About me
What are your favourite parts of your role?
What are your areas of interest?
Our Tangata o le Moana team
Dr Lana Perese
Magiagi ma Fasito’o-Uta, Sāmoa
PhD, BA (Hons), BA
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Dr Roannie Ng Shiu
Savaia Lefaga, Leone Sāmoa ma Manu’a Amelika Sāmoa
PhD, MA (Hons), BA/BCom
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Fofoa Pio-Bentley
Iva ma Ti'avea, Sāmoa
MPH (Hons), BHSc
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Jane Apoiliu Stephen
Salelavalu, Savai’i, Sāmoa
BHSc Hons (First Class)
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Pasifika evaluation consultants, Pacific data sovereignty, Pacific research
We recognise and acknowledge our diverse Pacific communities.
We draw on our extensive relationships with national and regional Pacific networks across academic institutions, NGOs, community and church groups. The following Sāmoan proverbs demonstrate how we practice our TIRIA values across our projects.
Pasifika research, Process evaluation, Transparency in Pacific evaluation
Transparency
Aua le naunau i le i’a, ae manumanu i le upega. – It is wiser to be mindful of the weight and impact of a catch, than to break the net and lose all hope.

We ask ourselves questions such as those posed by Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese (2005).

“Who will benefit from this production of knowledge? Research is not exempt from the structures and from the ideologies of the dominant culture. What steps can be taken by researchers to ensure that the knowledges they produce do not further marginalise Pacific people? Does this research contribute to the self-determination, freedom and liberation of Pacific peoples?” (Tamasese, 2005).
Pasifika Policy development, Integrity in Pacific evaluation, Pacific evaluation consultants
Integrity
E sui faiga, ae tumau le fa’avae. – We have different methods but the foundation remains the same.

We gather and interweave different perspectives throughout the life of our evaluation and research projects.
Māori and Pasifika evaluation, Pacific research, Respect in Pacific communities
Respect
Teu le vā. – Nurturing relationships as a collective approach to research and evaluation.

We maintain respectful and meaningful relationships with all.
Pacific research, Innovation in Pacific evaluation, Strengths-based Pacific approach
Innovation
E fofō e le alamea le alamea. – The cure for the toxic sting of the star fish is the star fish itself.

We take a strengths-based approach and work with our communities to identify and enhance solutions.
Accountability in Pacific research, Pacific evaluation, New Zealand policy review company
Accountability
O lupe sa vao ese’ese ae ua fuifui fa’atasi. – We are doves from different parts of the forest but connected in one cause.

We engage to listen and ensure our Pacific voices are represented.
Examples of our Pacific-specific projects