Listening to the Voices of Pasifika Community Leaders

The kaupapa on raising engagement and achievement of Pasifika students motivates Pasifika leaders, families and Pasifika communities to work alongside school leaders, teachers and educators. Pasifika leaders are driven by their aspirations for all Pasifika students to be successful in education and life-long learning. This article explores the voices of nine Pasifika leaders living within New Zealand and what they perceive are critical issues for advancing outcomes in a culturally responsive practices and understandings. The research uses a Pasifika methodology, known as Talanoa that affords a culturally suitable situation for the researcher and research participants to talk in a spontaneous manner about whatever arises. The research investigation found seven key concepts: Strengthening culturally responsive leadership; Pasifika 'heart'; Deep knowledge of Pasifika cultural world views; Provision of quality teaching and learning; Strengthening community engagement and partnership; Setting high expectations for success and achievement; Advocating for the Pasifika Education Plan.