Pasifika ākonga thrive at YFP 2025, a vibrant leadership event celebrating identity, creativity, and connection.

“Even the quiet boys came out of their shells, you could see the pride in their eyes.”

Orewa College ākonga joined the 2025 Young, Free & Pacific Conference. Held over two inspiring days, one for the boys and one for the girls, this year’s theme, Take Your Place, invited our Year 11–13 Pasifika students to step forward with Pasefika pride.

Organised by Affirming Works with Pasefika Proud, this conference wasn’t just about leadership. It was about knowing who you are, feeling proud of where you come from, and standing strong in your identity. Our students connected with other rangatahi from across Tāmaki Makaurau and beyond, exploring what it means to thrive as young Pasifika.

There were workshops on resilience, values, mental wellbeing, and cultural storytelling. Creative sessions brought out the beats, words, and moves: spoken word, art, music, and dance all featured. Guest speakers, including Pasefika artists, athletes, and community advocates, lit up the room with inspiration and real talk.

The impact didn’t stop there. Inspired by her experience, Bethany Marriot shared a powerful speech on Pasifika pride during the school’s Samoan Language Week, echoing the conference theme of Take Your Place.

Our ākonga came back buzzing and eady to take their place in our kura and out in the world.

🏷️ Affirming Works, Pasefika Proud

📷 Photo credit: Jo Hayward, Young Free & Pacific