21/07/2025\r\n\r\nLast Wednesday, the Waikato Pacific Action Plan Fono united Pasifika leaders, businesses, and community members in Kirikiriroa under a shared vision of prosperity, resilience, and collective growth.\r\n\r\nCHECK OUT THE PHOTOS .\r\n\r\nOur keynote speaker, Su’a Thomsen, emphasized the Waikato region’s vital role nationally, particularly in driving data and insights to shape effective policies and initiatives that improve outcomes for Pasifika communities. A significant highlight was the economic contribution of Pasifika-owned businesses in Kirikiriroa, which inject an estimated $8 million annually into the national economy—a clear testament to Pasifika entrepreneurship and determination.\r\n\r\nThe fono focused on six strategic pillars:\r\n

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1. Health – advancing equitable and culturally responsive health outcomes.

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2. Environment – fostering sustainable, community-led stewardship.

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3. Community – building stronger, more connected support networks.

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4. Education – empowering Pasifika learners and future leaders.

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5. Languages and Culture – preserving and celebrating Pasifika identity.

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6. Economic Development and Housing – growing businesses, creating jobs, and ensuring secure housing pathways.

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\r\nA shared commitment emerged throughout the talanoa to ensure the prosperity of Pasifika people amid challenging economic conditions. There was also a strong call to extend opportunities beyond Kirikiriroa to the wider Waikato region, so Pasifika families across all communities can access economic growth, education, and wellbeing.\r\n\r\nHon. Carmel Sepuloni’s presence underscored the significance of the Waikato Pacific Action Plan and her commitment to supporting the Pasifika community in Aotearoa. It was also inspiring to see school representatives and students—our future leaders—actively listening and learning about pathways being shaped for their generation.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, the Action Plan Roadmap to 2030 sets ambitious aspirations for Waikato Pacific Business Network (WPBN) to be a digitally connected, empowered, and resilient economic force driving sustainable regional growth. The focus includes:\r\n

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• Uplifting economic empowerment for Pasifika businesses, entrepreneurs, and enterprises, ensuring equitable access to opportunities and resources.

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• Strengthening a digitally connected ecosystem where WPBN members use technology to innovate, collaborate, and expand locally and globally.

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• Implementing a robust data and evidence-based approach to guide decisions, measure impact, and improve outcomes continuously.

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\r\nA heartfelt thank you goes to all local government representatives, friends, supporters of the Pasifika community, and the Ministry of Pacific Peoples for their invaluable support and attendance.\r\n\r\nYour involvement inspires and strengthens our collective efforts to build a thriving future for Pasifika in Waikato and beyond.\r\n\r\nAs they say, “This is the Waikato story – resilient and mighty in our own.” Together, we remain steadfast in building a thriving, connected, and prosperous future for Pasifika.