I had always wanted to volunteer overseas so when I was living in Melbourne and heard about Australian Volunteers International, I jumped at the chance to apply for a volunteer position in tropical Vanuatu. Luckily my application was successful, and I became a Business Development Advisor for VANWODS, a microfinance organisation, based in their office in Luganville on the island of Espiritu Santo for 18 months. My role was to help the current members manage their small busine

To Celebrate Aotearoa Bislama Language Week 2026,Valorie Patrick (host of Yumi Talem radio show on Fresh FM) Interviewed Vianca Patrick,Leader in the Manutai Pacific Council at Motueka High School. At just 16 years old, Vianca is already making a positive impact in her school and community while proudly representing her Ni-Vanuatu heritage. Vianca attended Riwaka Primary School for eight years before beginning her journey at Motueka High School. There, she became involved in

To celebrate Aotearoa Bislama Language Week 2026, Valorie Patrick (host of Yumi Talem radio show on Fresh FM) interviewed Chief Richard (Richie) George, Chairman of the Vanuatu Canterbury Association. Richie shared his inspiring journey from Vanuatu to Aotearoa New Zealand, the growth of the Ni-Vanuatu community in Canterbury, and his vision for preserving the Bislama language for future generations. From Aore Island to Aotearoa Richie was born on Aore Island, Santo, although

To celebrate Aotearoa Bislama Language Week in 2026, Valorie Patrick (host of Yumi Talem radio show on Fresh FM) interviewed Ralph Regenvanu, MP for Port Vila and Minister for Climate Change, Energy, Meteorology, Geohazards, Environment and Disaster Management. Key points discussed in the interview are summarised below. Climate Change is Real and is Affecting Vanuatu Now Climate change is a real issue currently affecting Vanuatu in many different ways, such as: · Ca

To celebrate Aotearoa Bislama Language Week in 2026, Valorie Patrick (host of Yumi Talem radio show on FreshFM) interviewed Leina Isno, Co-Chair of the National Melanesian Steering Committee and founder of the National Aotearoa Vanuatu Bislama Working Group. Key points discussed in the interview are summarised below. What is Bislama Language Week ? The Pacific Language Week series in New Zealand is an initiative of the Ministry for Pacific Peoples and highlights and promot

PORT VILA, Vanuatu (1 May 2026) — An exciting new chapter for ni-Vanuatu storytelling begins today with the launch of the Poetri Pawa Praes (PPP). This national competition is designed to amplify diverse local voices and shape the role of poetic storytelling in contemporary Vanuatu. The Poetri Pawa Praes celebrates poetry as a powerful tool for reflection and change. This year, writers are invited to explore the theme ‘Routes and Roots’, examining how cultural foundations pr

Three years ago, our family made the move to Fiji, not knowing just how much this journey would shape our children's lives. Today, as we prepare for the next chapter, we look back with gratitude on the incredible opportunities and experiences that Fiji has provided for Sophia and Aken. During their time at Nasinu Primary School, both children were given the opportunity to participate in the Nasinu Primary School Sports Championships, representing their school in Under-12 and

PORT VILA, Vanuatu (1 May 2026) — Today marks a significant milestone for Vanuatu’s creative landscape with the official launch of the 2026 Vanuatu National Literary Awards. This year, the established ‘Sot Sot Storian’ Micro-Fiction Competition enters its third year, joined by the inaugural Poetri Pawa Praes (National Poetry Award). The 2026 theme, “Routes and Roots / Routes et racines / Ol rod mo ol stampa,” invites ni-Vanuatu writers to explore the tension and connection be

Budgeting is often seen as managing money through numbers and limits, but for some, it carries a deeper meaning of responsibility and stewardship. In her blog Budgeting as Stewardship, she reflects on how budgeting is not simply about spreadsheets or percentages, but about being responsible with what we have been given. Read more about her perspective here: https://adenemustribalgirl.wordpress.com/2026/02/17/budgeting-as-stewardship/ Leina Isno (Ni-Vanuatu PhD student at the

The Vanuatu community and Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers in the Nelson Tasman region are coming together in preparation for Vanuatu's Independence Day celebration. More than 5 orchards have decided to celebrate together. Living far from home can be challenging, but community gatherings like this play an important role in keeping people connected to their culture, language, and traditions. The celebration provide an opportunity for ni-Vanuatu living and working in

I have attended many sporting events over the years, but Sunday’s OFC Pro League match between Vanuatu United FC and Bula FC was something I will carry in my heart for a very long time. It was not simply a football match. It was a testament to the enduring power of sport to unite people, to give voice to hope, and to remind us that no matter where life has taken us, we are — and always will be — one people. Full Circle: From Eden Park to the Semi-Finals Back in January, I had

What a game! As a Ni Vanuatu family living here in Auckland we have been at the stadium, supporting every game that has been played here. There are not many Ni Vanuatu living in the city, with most living as seasonal workers in the small towns many hours drive from Auckland. As we arrived on Sunday and we saw the buses with our Ni Vanuatu brothers and sisters arriving, the feeling of excitement began to build. Our hearts were bursting with pride as the boys began the game, an

They’re Back — And This Time, It’s Aelan Toktok 🎙️ There’s something special about conversations that don’t just inform—but transform. If you’ve been following the journey from Ask The Coach on the Espresso Show in 2022, you’ll know exactly the kind of space we’re talking about: real, honest, and grounded in lived experience. Now, that journey takes an exciting new step forward. Welcome to Aelan Toktok. From a Segment to a Platform What started as a powerful coaching segment

Congratulations to Guilaine Vianca Patrick, a talented young athlete originally from the beautiful islands of Vanuatu, who has now made her home in the picturesque town of Motueka, New Zealand. Currently attending Motueka High School, Guilaine has recently achieved a significant milestone in her sporting career by being selected for the under-16 representative team for Nelson Netball. This selection is not only a testament to her hard work and dedication but also highlights h

Ni sa bula Vinaka, Ekamowir omo, Halo Olaketa, Halo olgeta, Mālo e lelei, Tālofa lava, Mauri Halo, and Warm Pacific Greetings On the 21st of April, a significant facilitator training session took place for Noa Learning Village's new and innovative courses: Manava Money Mastery and Toutai Small Business. This event was successfully conducted in the vibrant town of Blenheim, where facilitators from various Pacific nations gathered to enhance their skills and knowledge. The trai

Motueka's community spirit is not only vibrant but also deeply rooted in its rich tapestry of arts and cultural activities. However, many residents encounter challenges that hinder their full participation in these enriching experiences. Recently, a significant discussion initiated by the Motueka branch of Multicultural Nelson Tasman served as a platform for diverse voices, including those from the Vanuatu Republic diaspora residing in Motueka. This gathering aimed to addres