Fiji
Introduction to Vuvale Doka Sautu
The Fijian Conceptual Framework Vuvale Doka Sautu was developed by the Fijian Working Group: Rev Dr Ilaitia Tuwere, Amalaini Ligalevu, Tina McNicholas, Maureen Moala, Kiti Tuifagalele and Sai Lealea (writer).
The Framework
The Fijian term “Sautu” denotes the existence and maintenance of a strong and vibrant Fijian vuvale (family). It represents the pinnacle and optimal state where the family is operating at its best and has secured a stable, harmonious and mutually sustaining status.
It is a situation where relationships are thriving because the key Fijian values and concepts of veivakarokoroko (respect), veidokai (respect or honour), veirogorogoci (listening to each other), veivakatavulici (accepting of authority), veinanumi (consideration), veikauwaitaki (care) and veilomani (loving one another) are observed and promoted. It is a situation akin to reaching the final stage in the building of a Fijian house when the Doka ni Vale is in place as the topmost and crowning glory of the house.
Meet our Facilitators
Our facilitators who deliver Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu’s training programmes are chosen for their cultural knowledge, experience working with Pacific families and knowledge of social work practices in Aotearoa.
Tina McNicholas
Facilitator
Tina McNicholas
Tina is an indigenous Fijian with maternal links to Naveicovatu village in Tailevu, and paternal links to Nasigatoka village in Rewa, Fiji. She was born in Suva and raised in Porirua East, New Zealand.
Her professional background is in public policy, programme management and governance focusing mainly on public health, community development and public sector development in New Zealand and the Pacific. Tina has more than 25 years’ experience in family violence prevention, community advocacy and training.
“It’s been a great privilege being on the Nga Vaka journey from the outset, first as a member of the working group and subsequently as lead facilitator for the Vuvale Sautu Fijan training programme. As a facilitator I am grateful for the shared learnings and collective wisdom gained from presenters and participants over the years, which have shaped my own views and insights on issues related to family violence.”
Ratu Natubavivi Turagalailai Kasami
Facilitator
Ratu Natubavivi Turagalailai Kasami
Ratu is from Koro: Nokonoko, Mataqali: Nacokula, Yavusa: Nawaqavesi, Tokatoka: Nawaqavesi, Tikina: Saivou/Naroko, Yasana: Ra on his father’s side. On his mother’s side he’s from Koro: Nativi, Mataqali: Salili, Yavusa: Naliwani, Tokatoka: Naliwani.
Ratu is currently a senior social worker at Oranga Tamariki where he’s worked for the past ten years. He currently works in the South Auckland area with Youth Justice, Child Protection, and adoption services.
Ratu is a family violence facilitator for Nga Vaka working with i-taukei Fijian families and their communities.
“The i-taukei Fijian framework is call Vuvale Doka Sautu. This is a i-taukei framework is owned and recognised by the i-taukei Fijian community in Aotearoa, therefore I am in a privileged position to share my experience and passion with my own community.”
Seru Tiqatabua
Facilitator
Seru Tiqatabua
Yacata, Cakaudrove & Wailotua II, Tailevu
I have been involved in numerous roles from working in the community (Kids after school care & IDEA Services Whanau Coordinator), working at Massey University (Pacific Learning Advisor) and working at a National Workforce Development Organisation (Te Rau Ora Project Coordinator).
As a facilitator, it is a privilege and an honour to be in a space where our Fijian cultures and values can be discussed and nurtured.
I am passionate about our Fijian people in believing for more and being courageous about setting up a better tomorrow for our future generations.
The Vuvale Sautu framework utilises our cultures and values in a way that is unique to indigineous Fijians. It is a tool that our people can use to help provide a safe home and promoting family well-being. It was designed by the community for the community.
Vinaka
Community Insights
Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu helps to communicate the protective factors in Pacific cultures which can help nurture families through strong relationships.
Resources
Download some of our resources here.