Being born in Leeds, growing up in England and New Zealand, and understanding your Samoan culture, there has been a lot of cultural influences Maddie Feaunati has taken in during her life so far.

The Exeter Chiefs back-row forward opens up on coming to rugby late, growing up with her four sisters and the influence her dad has had on her - from playing for Samoa to starring as Jonah Lomu alongside Matt Damon and Morgan Freeman.

She also tells England Rugby Podcast: O2 Inside Line about learning Māori culture, moving half away across the world by herself and how the personality and confidence of other Red Roses inspire her. In this pod you will also hear from England team mates Sarah Bern and Amy Cokayne.

Stephen Crichton (Critta) joins Lets Trot Podcast again for another special episode to reflect on an amazing season with the Canterbury Bulldogs and NSW Blues.

Critta opens up about his season performance at the Bulldogs, overcoming the doubters, being selected as Captain, how he handles pressure, the scenes on Belmore Road, that upsetting Finals loss to Manly, and he shares some stories on the Blues secret to success, including that one story about Michael Maguire and his baseball bat. 

Edenfest, Promiseland, Souled Out—massive line-ups, featuring some of the biggest international stars. But who’s behind these iconic festivals?

Pacific Island men, that’s who. It’s no surprise that such incredible events have emerged from our very own Polynesians, who are known for their talent and hard work.

In this case, the mastermind behind Festco AU is Bernard Kumar alongside the wider OG Festco team.

Emal Naim, the backbone of the company, Alex McDonell the Talent Agent that makes the big connections, and his Samoan Co-Founder who prefers to remain anonymous-but has been Bernard’s partner from day 1.

Hailing from Samoan, Fijian-Indian heritage, Bernard's rise from modest beginnings to a key player in the entertainment world is one for the books. Maybe even for Netflix one day. 

From growing up in the islands, to running some of the most successful concerts in Australasia. He remembers his day’s as a young kid in Fiji.…more

In recent years, the mental health of Pasifika men has become an increasingly important topic, with growing recognition of the unique cultural factors that shape their experiences.

We spoke to Auckland University of Technology Senior Lecturer Lefaoali’i Dr. Dion Enari, whose work sheds light on the intricate relationship between Pasifika men’s mental health and cultural heritage.

"Those more entrenched in their Pacific cultures are more likely to have more positive well-being experiences."

Lefaoali’i's research, which examines Pasifika communities in New Zealand and Australia, reveals that men who are more deeply connected to their cultural roots tend to have more positive mental health outcomes.

Understanding and embracing their cultural identity provides these men with a sense of belonging and purpose, which can prove crucial for navigating life's challenges in mainstream society.…more

The Hawaiian Film Festival proudly celebrates its 44th year of promoting, educating, and showcasing filmmakers from the Asia-Pacific region. This year, the Festival will take place from October 2nd to November 10th across eight locations and islands.

The 2024 lineup features a star-studded selection of Pacific and local talent, including the highly anticipated world premiere of TINĀ, directed by Samoan-born, Aotearoa-based filmmaker Miki Magasiva.

TINĀ

is an inspiring, light-hearted yet rhythmic tear-jerker that tells the story of Samoan teacher Mareta Percival. Struggling after the death of her daughter in the Christchurch earthquakes, Mareta reluctantly takes on the role of substitute teacher at an elite, all-white private school. She finds that the seemingly privileged children are crying out for guidance, inspiration, and love. Drawing from her cultural roots, Mareta empowers her students by forming a choir, all while facing bias from a privileged community intent on keeping her in her place.…more