Honouring the Journey of Young, Free & Pacific 2025
Celebrating Our Young People in Auckland & Wellington
In 2025, Young, Free & Pacific returned bigger, bolder, and more beautiful than ever, spanning two cities, four full days, and hundreds of brilliant young minds. What started as a simple idea to honour our rangatahi has now become something our communities hold close — a movement, and a memory in the making.
This year’s event was led by the team at Affirming Works, in firm partnership with Pasefika Proud, and supported by the Ministry of Social Development, Ministry for Pacific Peoples, Ministry of Youth Development, and The Awhero Nui Trust, agencies that have walked with us over the years to ensure our Pacific youth are seen, valued, and celebrated.
Auikilani, stand up!
C3 Church in Ellerslie was humming, first with the young men, ready and present. From the start, they leaned in. They weren’t here for just a day out (really, lads). They were here for something real.
Our speakers brought that realness. Xavier Breed, Caleb Va’a, and Genezy Ilolahia shared stories that felt like home, stories of faith, struggle, humour and hope. There was no gap between the stage and the audience. You could feel the connection.
The workshops opened up space for creativity and movement. Students moved with Ben Savea in dance, jammed with Jeremiah and TJ from Tupu’anga (Alumni), found their rhythm in spoken word with Luani, and carved out identity through art with JS Carving.
Then came the wāhine. The vibe shifted (and the volume, yikes), warm, fierce, full of mana. Judge Ida Malosi opened the day, and it felt like a blessing. Eteroa Lafaele, Lynne Vatau and Gabby Solomona held it down with honesty and strength. They weren’t just telling their stories. Their address impacted the hearts of our young ladies.
The young women danced to Sau E Siva Creatives (Ida), lifted their voices with Lily and Olivia, and crafted powerful words with Helen. And through it all, Jordan Tuiasosopo and Naki Taulanga guided the space as our MCs.
What Our Schools & Students Said
“We don’t get to do things like Polyfest or Pacific events at our school. This was a safe space to be proud.” — Year 12 student
“It gave our students who are a minority at school a chance to feel seen, and be part of something bigger.” — Careers Advisor, Wellington
“Loved the mix of workshops. One of our quiet students opened up for the first time — we haven’t seen that before.” — Teacher, Auckland
Te Whanganui-a-Tara, your next!
Wellington had its own rhythm. Different in some ways, but just as powerful. The space at Toi Rauwhārangi (Massey University) provided an opportunity for reflection, storytelling, and deep connection.
Our young men stood tall. They laughed, leaned in, and shared their whakaaro freely. Anthony Lama, Jayden Luapo and Eden Vave were brave and unfiltered. They spoke to the room like big brothers, like peers, like men who understand the path our young ones are walking.
Jayden then switched gears and led the dance workshop, helping the boys shake off nerves, move freely, and stay grounded in joy.
The next day, our young women arrived with grace (and of course, volume!). Judge Ida Malosi opened the space with warmth and wisdom. Asena Tolungamaka, Gabby Solomona and Latayvia Tualasea Tautai spoke with fire and softness, showing what leadership can look like at every age.
Sophia Uele brought light and movement into the dance workshop, and the energy in the room lifted. It wasn’t just about learning steps. It was about connection and expression. Music workshops in Wellington were also led with heart by Jordan Tuiasosopo, who returned once again alongside Naki Taulanga to MC both events.
A Word of Thanks
Thank you to our venue partners, C3 Church in Auckland and Toi Rauwhārangi at Massey University, Wellington, for welcoming our vision and our young people so generously.
To all the speakers, facilitators, volunteers, teachers, drivers, and everyone who played a part, thank you for showing up, sharing your time, and believing in the potential of our youth.
To the agencies and supporters who continue to back this kaupapa, we appreciate you. Your trust allows us to create spaces where our young people are seen, heard, and uplifted.
We’ve also prepared a full report on this year’s Young, Free & Pacific events. It has been shared with our funders at Pasefika Proud and the Ministry of Social Development, and we’ll continue to make it available to schools, community partners, and supporters who’ve requested a copy.
Behind the Scenes
A huge mihi to the team at Affirming Works, your commitment behind the scenes made this kaupapa possible. From ongoing kōrero with schools, liaising with venues, coordinating logistics, and ensuring our young people were supported before, during, and after the event — your care and dedication never go unnoticed. Thank you for carrying this vision with heart.
To Our Young People
We see you. We love you.
Go and grow.
Be great — at home, in your communities, in your classrooms, and in your schools.
We’re proud of you, always.
To register your interest for future events, fill out the form here!
Photos from both Auckland and Wellington are now live on our socials: Facebook & Instagram
