On Wednesday 20 and Thursday 21 May, twelve senior BDSC Pasifika students attended the Young, Free & Pacific conference in Ellerslie. It was more than just an event鈥攊t was a powerful space where Pasifika youth from different schools and backgrounds came together to celebrate Pasifika culture, learn, grow, and understand that 鈥渙ur voices matter.鈥�
鈥淵oung, Free & Pacific鈥� is an initiative run by Affirming Works, aimed at empowering Pasifika youth, fostering leadership, and celebrating cultural identity.
The YFP conference creates opportunities for Pasifika youth to embrace their identity and grow as leaders. Through music, dance, spoken word workshops, mentorship, and shared experiences, it strengthens cultural pride and highlights culture as a source of strength and success.
~ Mrs Vanessa MacDonald,聽TiC Pasifika Council聽
Young, Free & Pacific helped me build my confidence and reminded me to be proud of who I am and where I come from. Hearing guest speakers like Litara (Miss Samoa 2025鈥�2026) and Ann share how they felt they had to change themselves to fit in taught me that I should never hide my culture or who I truly am. I had the opportunity to connect with other Pacific girls from different schools and develop new skills, such as playing the violin, which encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone. Overall, the experience was incredibly meaningful and left me feeling connected and inspired.
~ Ruby Saunoa 11E2