OUR BOARD

  • Mrs Anne Fitisemanu

    Chair of the Board

    Anne Fitisemanu has over 20 years of experience in health, education, and community engagement, making her a passionate advocate for Pacific empowerment and well-being. With her extensive work in health equity and education, Anne has continuously championed the need for Pacific-led solutions. As Chair, she brings her visionary leadership to PCF, focusing on fostering meaningful connections and ensuring that Pacific voices are amplified in all spaces.

    Anne has previously held leadership and governance roles as the PACIFICA Auckland President and Auckland Branch Board Trustee for the YWCA.

  • Professor Rouben Azizian

    International Relations and Security Specialist

    Honorary Professor and former Director of Massey University’s Centre for Defence and Security Studies, Chair of the Auckland Branch of the NZ Institute of International Affairs and Editor-in-Chief of the National Security Journal.

    Professor Rouben Azizian is a recognised expert in international relations and strategic studies, with a rich background that includes senior roles in foreign service and academia, Professor Azizian’s insights on regional security and geopolitical dynamics are invaluable. His strategic acumen helps PCF engage thoughtfully on pressing geopolitical issues affecting the Pacific, guiding us as we navigate complex regional challenges.

  • Seumalu Shelley Burich

    Community Development and Education Leader

    Seumalu Shelley Borich is a respected leader within Pacific communities, known for her strategic vision and commitment to social and economic development. With a robust background in education and grassroots engagement, Seumalu has driven impactful programs that address the real needs of Pacific families. She brings to PCF a wealth of experience in community-building and a deep understanding of the challenges Pacific communities face, ensuring our programs remain grounded, relevant, and effective.

OUR STAFF

  • Joanna Bourke

    Chief Executive

    Joanna Bourke is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with over three decades of expertise in strategic campaign development, brand growth, and profitability optimisation. With a diverse career spanning industries across New Zealand and the Pacific—including Tonga, Fiji, tourism, hospitality, telecommunications, the arts, and agriculture—Joanna brings a dynamic perspective to her role as Chief Executive of the Pacific Cooperation Foundation (PCF).

    In her previous role at Tataki Auckland Unlimited, Joanna was instrumental in leading the “Alo Vaka Pacific Skills Shift” project within the Skills and Workforce division, overseeing transformative initiatives such as Project Ikuna and Future of Work. Her leadership in these projects reflects her deep commitment to skill-building and workforce development for Pacific communities.

    Joanna’s dedication to the Pacific region extends beyond her professional work; she is passionate about fostering cultural development and creating meaningful, positive change. Her extensive experience and unwavering commitment make her an invaluable leader at PCF.

  • Sanjogita Lal

    Accountant

    Sanjogita Lal brings a wealth of experience in finance and accounting to the Pacific Cooperation Foundation, where she serves as the accountant. Originally from Fiji, Sanjogita has a strong background in financial management across the Pacific region. She has held various accounting roles in Vanuatu before migrating to New Zealand, where she pursued a Master’s in Applied Finance at Auckland University of Technology (AUT).

    With her expertise, Sanjogita plays an essential role in managing PCF’s financial operations and ensuring transparent and effective financial practices. Beyond her professional life, she is a dedicated wife and mother of two, balancing her career with family commitments.

  • Yole Lelaulu

    Programme Manager

    Yole Lelaulu is a passionate and dynamic leader dedicated to empowering Pacific communities through impactful programs and partnerships. As Programme Manager at the Pacific Cooperation Foundation, Yole brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as a Navigator with Tuputoa, where she excelled in building relationships and collaborating with diverse partners and stakeholders. Her drive and youthful energy are at the core of her approach, making her an inspiring force within PCF.

    In her role, Yole will lead and direct the Summer Internship Experience for Manaaki Scholars from the Pacific, nurturing the next generation of Pacific leaders through immersive, real-world experiences. Additionally, she will spearhead the Alumnae Program across the Pacific, strengthening connections among former interns and supporting their continued growth.

    Yole is also responsible for driving other cornerstone programs, such as the Prime Minister’s Awards Internship program overseas and PCF's Empowerment programs, ensuring they deliver transformative outcomes for Pacific communities.

    Yole’s enthusiasm, commitment, and exceptional leadership make her an invaluable part of PCF's mission to uplift and empower the Pacific region.

  • We want to make sure that Pacific peoples, no matter where they are, can be seen, heard, supported and celebrated.

Our Partner

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) represents New Zealand in formal communications with other countries and their governments.

By building connections and influence in other countries, MFAT works to secure outcomes that matter to New Zealand.

MFAT also monitors and interprets changes in international political, diplomatic and trade situations

PCF gratefully acknowledges MFAT who is a long-standing partner and assists the Foundation to ensure its initiatives have a positive impact in the Pacific region.