In a summer dedicated to growth and innovation, our Manaaki Scholars traded their holidays for hands-on experiences across industries in New Zealand, tackling challenges with fresh perspectives and leaving a lasting impact. From working on decarbonization projects in Marlborough’s iconic wine region to collaborating with small businesses on creative problem-solving, these Pacific interns demonstrated the power of diversity and adaptability in today’s economic climate. This blog reflects on their journey, the collaborative network of host employers, and the ongoing role of Pacific voices in shaping sustainable success for Aotearoa and beyond.

Discover how Mana Wantaim, the new platform launched by the Pacific Cooperation Foundation, unites Pacific scholars, alumni, and employers to drive collaboration, leadership, and global impact. Built on the principles of Pacific identity and collective growth, Mana Wantaim provides access to professional development, mentoring, and networking opportunities across the region. Join the movement reshaping Pacific leadership for a sustainable future.

The Pacific Promise

This is the new narrative of the Pacific—a story of potential, promise, and power. It is not just about arriving on foreign shores; it is about thriving, leading, and shaping the very future we all share. It is about turning opportunity into outreach, knowledge into change, and inspiration into the courage to walk the paths less travelled.

For PCF, the commitment is to empower, to uplift, and to herald the Pacific as a powerhouse of ingenuity. Our scholars, our partners, and our collective future inspire us, and the world at large, to step into the dawn of a new era.

Manaaki Scholars from across the Pacific region visited PCF during their short-term training course in Politics and Public Policy at the University of Auckland, led by Dr. Jennifer Curtin. As part of our ongoing commitment to deepening relationships with our Pacific neighbours, Pacific Cooperation Foundation (PCF) used this opportunity to build its presence around the work that it is doing in the region, knowledge exchange and capacity building.

Hey everyone! 🌏✨ We have something truly special lined up for you on the Pacific Cooperation Youtube channel, and it's all about the incredible voices of the youth from the Pacific region currently residing in New Zealand. Get ready for an eye-opening, heartwarming episode where our young changemakers share their perspectives on a variety of crucial topics that affect us all.