From Essay Winner to Mana Pacific Intern

As part of her success in the Pasifika Fusion 2025 Essay Competition, Sontel Liuvaie, Niuean Palmerston North Girls High School student was awarded a two-week paid internship with Mana Pacific, providing her with the opportunity to experience a professional, Pacific-led workplace and contribute to meaningful community-based research.

During her internship, Sontel worked alongside the Mana Pacific team, supporting the Heartstring Heritage project, which explores how Pasifika families draw on their strengths, stories, and cultural knowledge to navigate cardiovascular disease and advocate for better heart health.

Working with Mana Pacific team member Polu Samuelu, Sontel accompanied the team to an interview with a health professional and assisted with transcribing recorded family interviews. Through this experience, she gained insight into talanoa-based research, community engagement, and the importance of documenting and preserving Pacific voices and lived experiences. Director, Dr Tracie Mafile'o, reflects

"It is inspiring to see the next generation of Pasifika thinkers and young people with a passion for learning, excellence and writing. Mana Pacific wants to contribute to the capacity development of the next generation of Pacific researchers and consultants. Sontel was a quick learner and it was a delight to have her join the team for the two week internship."

Mana Pacific is proud to support opportunities that help young Pacific people gain practical experience, develop new skills, and explore future pathways while contributing to work that makes a positive difference in our communities.