Sharing the Stories of Pacific Peoples Living with Disability

‘Tagata Sa’ilimalo—Pacific Peoples Living with Disability’, a booklet sharing the lived experiences of six Pacific people with disabilities, was recently launched at Vaka Tautua in Ōtautahi Christchurch.

The booklet, developed by Pegasus Health Manager of Pacific Health, Esala Vakamacawai, and Senior Lecturer - Department of Environmental Management at Lincoln University, Suliasi Vunibola, shares the stories of six Pacific people navigating life with a disability and how they have overcome challenges on their path.

Drawing on experiences shared during the fortnightly meetings of the Tagata Sa’ilimalo (disabled Pacific peoples) group, the booklet was developed as an accessible resource to facilitate conversations about Pacific disability for many, including whānau, service providers and academics. It also seeks to remind the Tagata Sa’ilimalo community that they are not alone and encourage them to reach out for help.

Tagata Sa’ilimalo may find support for obstacles they face in various ways. “Challenges [can] be reduced by having family, service providers, faith and government strategies,” Suliasi said.

A strong connection to culture can also be a powerful tool. “Even when bad news is given, with a Pacific sense of humour, a negative experience can turn into a positive one”, Esala said.

During the well-attended launch event, the six individuals whose stories were featured in the booklet, Timaima Kose, Silivelio Fasi, Faafetai, Taulele Brown, Robert Sopoaga and Ana Wolfgram, were each presented with a printed copy of the booklet. The ceremony was concluded with Pacific pride as Sopoaga performed an energetic Taualuga (traditional Samoan dance).

Read the booklet