Meet our Team
Behind the work that is demonstrated by Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu is an experienced team of people who are passionate about the work they do.
Sopo Su’a
Programme Manager
Sopo Su‘a
Sopo Su‘a is a proud community builder whose career is grounded in service, connection, and Pacific wellbeing. She has worked across the social sector in both Aotearoa and Samoa, from social work and counselling to roles with the New Zealand Police, Oranga Tamariki, and community organisations, always guided by compassion and cultural care.
Her journey has also included programme management, education and even music therapy. This reflects her belief in holistic approaches and the power of creativity. Before joining Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu, Sopo served as the Community Strategic Broker for the Manurewa Local Board at Auckland Council, supporting communities to flourish, build resilience, and create positive change from the ground up.
Sopo brings heart, humour, and a deep commitment to Pacific families.
Her experience and passion make her a strong fit for supporting the vision of Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu, strengthening culture and strengthening families.
Koli Funaki
Programme Designer
Koli Funaki
As a child of the diaspora, I was born in Dharawal country, Sydney Australia, before my family relocated to Aotearoa when I was 17. My roots trace back to Kolomotu’a and Pukotala, Tonga, and today I call Ōtāhuhu, Tāmaki Makaurau home, where I live with my wife and three boys.
I currently serve as Programme Designer and Educator at The Cause Collective, where I play a role in supporting the Nga Vaka training programmes and the development of our online learning platform. It is a privilege to be part of a team that is dedicated to strengthening the skills of our workforce, aiding Pasifika families affected by family violence.
Throughout my career, I have gained diverse experiences working in alternative and adult education, as well as working in learning and development within the corporate sector. My transition from the corporate world to social change is driven by a profound desire to leverage my expertise to tackle pressing social challenges and contribute to a more equitable and compassionate society.
I am deeply committed to this cause, and I am excited to continue working alongside The Cause Collective in our shared mission to create positive and lasting change within our communities.
Vaiao Ale
Implementation Coordinator
Vaiao Ale
Mālō ni and talofa lava, my name is Vaiao Ale.
I am of Tokelauan and Samoan heritage, with family connections to the villages of Solosolo and Fasito‘o Uta in Samoa, and Nukunonu in Tokelau.
I currently serve as the Implementation Coordinator for the Ngā Vaka o Kāiga Tapu programme at The Cause Collective. I began this role earlier this year with a strong commitment to supporting our Pacific communities and contributing to meaningful, lasting change.
As a member of our Pacific community, I believe it is essential that family violence is addressed with care, cultural understanding, and effective, community-led approaches. I am passionate about empowering our communities to reach their full potential while advocating for greater recognition of our strengths, voices, and lived experiences.
I am proud to be a child of the world’s largest ocean, and I carry the mana and tapu of my heritage into every aspect of my work. These values guide my commitment to serving our people with integrity, respect and purpose.