A big vision

At just 25, Emeline Afeaki-Mafile’o founded Affirming Women with a clear vision: to implement her own mentoring and educational programs in South Auckland schools. Her aim was not only to cultivate leadership skills but also to create a meaningful impact. Drawing inspiration from the Pacific model, Tupu’anga (meaning “to grow from your roots”), her mentors engage with students across all educational levels. They address crucial social and academic needs, including literacy, numeracy, and the transition from school to work.

A growing impact

Beginning in a humble 2-bedroom unit in Papatoetoe in 2001, what was once a modest initiative has now transformed into a flourishing business that has impacted thousands of young lives. Known initially as Affirming Works, the company evolved its branding to include “AW” and is now steered by the dynamic duo Emeline and her husband, Alipate.
While Alipate oversees the Tupu’anga Coffee enterprise in Tonga, ensuring sustainable coffee production and managing Community Cafes in New Zealand, Emeline champions the mentoring aspects of AW. Together, they form a powerhouse partnership, anchoring their organization in the bedrock of traditional values: love, respect, altruism, and fostering close-knit community ties.

Award-winning work

Emeline, with her background in social work, authored the Tongan Family Violence Conceptual Framework and the Training Manual for Family Violence Practitioners titled “Fofola e fala kae talanoa e kainga.” She dedicated seven years as a Pacific Advisory Group (PAG) member for the Ministry of Social Development before stepping down.
Her unwavering initiative, passion, and significant contributions to the Pasifika community have earned her several accolades. Among these, Emeline has been honoured with one of New Zealand’s most distinguished awards for women: the Women of Influence Award, in the community service and social enterprise category. In 2006, the Sir Peter Blake Emerging Leader Award further recognised her leadership prowess.

Our Footprint

At Affirming Works, our passionate team of approximately 50 professionals is our biggest asset. Spread across various strategic points in Tāmaki Makaurau, we’re not just limited to traditional office environments. By embedding our presence within community-centric cafe sites, we ensure we’re always within arm’s reach, readily available for those we’re committed to serve.

Understanding the depth and breadth of community needs, especially for those most vulnerable, we extend our impact by collaborating with a network of service providers. This alliance not only widens our reach but ensures that support is comprehensive, touching every aspect of the lives we aim to uplift.

Rooted deeply in the conviction that it takes a village, we see ourselves as part of a larger community mosaic. While we play a pivotal role, we are among many dedicated entities working tirelessly to ensure every individual and family in our community flourishes. In our shared purpose, we find collective strength and a brighter future for all.