Pacific Empowerment

In this episode, I sit down with Fiji Senior Methodist Minister, Reverend Wilfred Regunamada, to discuss his personal battle with kava addiction. We talk about how kava affected his life, family, and ministry, the journey that led to his recovery, and the movement he is now leading to help others struggling with kava addiction. A powerful conversation about addiction, recovery, faith, and hope in the Pacific.You can follow Wilfred's journey on his Facebook page, Na Vei Buli Vou - The Journey.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, Akanesi Kaufusi speaks directly to the wives of faikava men and any wives struggling emotionally in their marriages. We discuss emotional neglect, boundaries, healing, supporting husbands with unhealthy habits, and why women should never lose themselves trying to fix a man who refuses to change. Akanesi also shares some of her own experiences and lessons from celebrating 12 years of marriage.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode of the, we discuss the shocking rates of domestic violence and sexual abuse against women in the Pacific and ask the hard question: Why do so many Pacific men treat their wives badly?We dive into culture, faikava, fatherhood, biblical masculinity, and what the Bible actually says about how husbands should love their wives. I also share personal lessons from my own marriage and practical solutions for families, churches, governments, fathers, and husbands to help break these generational cycles.A wife should feel peace around her husband, not fear.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode of the Pacific Empowerment Podcast, I dive deep into the impact of father absence on children, especially within Pacific communities.Drawing on international studies and real-life experiences shared by women in the community, I discuss the emotional, psychological, and social effects of absent fathers on children.This is a much-needed conversation about why fathers matter, why children need present and loving leadership, and how the choices adults make today can shape future generations.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, we dive deep into the history and evolution of Touʻa in Tongan faikava culture.Was Touʻa originally a male role? How did it change over time from sacred ceremony into modern faikava settings? Drawing from academic research, oral history, and historical records, we explore the three types of faikava identified by Futa Helu and discuss how war, migration, and social change transformed the role of Touʻa in Tongan society.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, we go deeper than culture and tradition to uncover the true origins of kava. Where did it come from? What beliefs shaped it? And why does its history matter today?We explore ancient Tongan stories like Kavaʻonau and ʻAhoʻeitu, revealing a world rooted in pagan beliefs, sacrifice, hierarchy, and spiritual systems very different from what many people follow today. From stories involving sacrifice and cannibalism to the role of kava in royal ceremonies connected to divine ancestry, this episode challenges the idea that kava is simply harmless tradition.We also compare this history with the Bible, looking at how God commanded His people to completely remove idol worship and not mix it with their lives, raising an important question: Why are some practices from the past rejected, while others are preserved and defended?This is not just about kava, it’s about truth, discernment, and the courage to question what we’ve been taught.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, I explore what happens when culture is placed above God, and why that becomes idolatry.After sharing that kava is classified as a drug, someone responded, “We know it’s true… but it’s our culture.” That statement reveals a deeper issue: knowing the truth is not enough if we refuse to change.Drawing from Scripture, I unpack how idolatry is not just about statues, but anything we prioritise, defend, or refuse to let go of, even when it goes against God.This episode challenges us to reflect on what we are truly putting first.Are we choosing God… or culture?Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, we unpack what addiction really is, what leads to it, and why early exposure to substances matters more than people think. From brain development to environment and culture, we break down how habits are formed and how they can shape a person’s future.We also confront a growing issue in our communities - young children being introduced to kava. Is kava really a “better alternative” to alcohol?This episode challenges the normalisation of substance use among youth and asks the hard questions: What are we teaching our children?  Are we protecting them or failing them?  And what happens when culture is used to justify harmful behaviour?I also share real testimonials from wives of faikava men, revealing how kava has impacted their lives, families, and futures.This is not just a conversation. This is a wake-up call.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

This episode is about my estranged relationship with Pacific media - featuring some interesting interactions, a few receipts, and screenshots that speak for themselves 👀I also react to a recent faikava and tou’a video posted by ABC Pacific, breaking down what’s being highlighted…and more importantly, what’s being left out.I share real testimonials from women who have experienced sexual assault after faikava, stories that deserve to be heard, not ignored. If we only tell the “good side,” we fail the very people who need protection the most.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

Kava has long been a central part of Pacific culture, but its history goes deeper than many realise. In this episode, we explore how kava was traditionally used in spiritual systems, including rituals, divination, and communication with ancestors. We also look at how missionaries viewed these practices and why they attempted to eliminate kava in some regions, with varying success across the Pacific.Drawing on historical research and modern perspectives, this episode examines both the cultural significance and the social impact of kava today, raising important questions about its place in contemporary Pacific life and Christian practice.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

As Queen Salote College celebrates its 100th anniversary this week, I take a trip down memory lane and reflect on my years at the college.In this episode, I share the good, the bad, and the ugly of my high school years at Queen Salote College. From memorable moments and school events to addressing rumours and stories that have resurfaced, I’m giving my honest reflection on that chapter of my life.High school experiences shape us in many ways, and this episode is my chance to tell my side of the story.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode of the Pacific Empowerment Podcast, we explore the concept of patriarchy and ask an important question: who makes the rules, and who do those rules benefit?Looking at history, from the women’s suffrage movement to global examples of women challenging restrictive systems, we unpack how patriarchal structures have shaped societies and influenced the roles women are expected to play. Throughout history, courageous women have questioned these systems and pushed for change, proving that progress often begins when people refuse to accept the status quo.We then bring the conversation into the Tongan context, examining the culture of faikava and the role of the tou’a, and asking whether these practices reflect deeper patriarchal systems within our community. This episode challenges us to think honestly about culture, power, and whether our traditions are protecting women, or protecting the comfort of men.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, I sit down with Pastor Letitia Shelton, who grew up in Fiji and now serves across Fiji and Australia to have a bold and honest conversation about sexual abuse, exploitation, and the silence that often surrounds it in Pacific communities. We unpack the realities of power, sex, and money, and how these forces can be misused within culture, community spaces, and even church settings.We also discuss her work addressing the harms of pornography and its impact on families, young people, and relationships, while challenging church leaders to step up and truly protect the vulnerable instead of avoiding hard conversations. This episode calls the church back to its true role: to serve, shepherd, and stand firmly for truth and justice.Drawing from her experience in Fiji and Australia, and my advocacy against the faikava and tou’a practice in the Tongan community, we connect culture, faith, and accountability. It’s a confronting but necessary conversation to break the silence and protect women, children, and families across our Pacific communities.Letitia Shelton Websitehttps://disruptivevoicespacific.com/Letitia Shelton Books & Resourceshttps://citywomen.myshopify.com/Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, I take an honest look at the tou’a practice, focusing on the difficult topic many avoid, the tou’a who willingly engages in relationships with married faikava men.I share real testimonials from wives who were cheated on, betrayed, or even abandoned when their husbands ran away with tou’as, revealing the deep emotional trauma and lasting impact on women and children left to suffer in silence.I also address the troubling silence from some Tongan churches, questioning where the accountability and moral leadership are when families are being destroyed.This episode is part of the ongoing Ban Tou’a advocacy to expose harm, break the silence, and push for lasting change in our communities.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, I unpack the disturbing patterns behind Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes, including the children’s photos and artwork found throughout his home, and what they reveal about how predators normalize their obsession.Then I turn the lens closer to home.I read real testimonials from women who were sexually abused in certain faikava environments when they were young. The patterns are chillingly similar: grooming, silence, power, and protection.This is not about attacking culture. This is about exposing predatory behaviour and protecting our children.Listener discretion advised.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, Akanesi Kaufusi launches the Ban Tou‘a campaign, calling for the protection of women, children, and families in faikava spaces.She shares the challenges she has faced online, the Pacific-wide support behind the movement, survivor testimonies, and why legal reform in Tonga is urgently needed.Learn about Pasifika Empowerment’s mission and how you can help create lasting change.Let’s get the 50,000-signature target reached soon.The quicker you sign and the more you share, the faster change happens.This is your chance to have your voice heard.Sign the petition and learn more at: https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsSupport the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

This episode marks my final podcast for 2025 as I take a short break over Christmas and New Year, before returning after the holidays.In this episode, I reflect on my journey throughout the year - the growth of the podcast, the ups and downs, and the challenging but necessary conversations around kava and tou'a issues. I share what this season has taught me about resilience, gratitude, and staying grounded in purpose.I also share more faikava testimonies sent to me, continuing to raise awareness and encourage honest conversations for change within our communities. As we close the year, I talk briefly about some of my plans and intentions for the year ahead, and what listeners can expect moving forward.I end this episode with gratitude for every listener who has walked with me this year, and I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you for your support! See you after the holidays.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

⚠️ DisclaimerThis episode is for awareness and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified doctor before testing or taking any medication.In this week’s episode, Kori Tameifuna shares her Tongan husband’s journey with chronic Hepatitis B - a silent health issue affecting many Pacific families. We talk about how the virus is passed down, why those born in the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s should get tested, and the serious impact it has on the liver. We also discuss how kava and alcohol can worsen liver health without people realising.Kori also gives honest marriage and family advice around boundaries, cultural pressures, kava, pickleball, late-night habits, and protecting your home. This is a powerful conversation every Pacific household needs to hear.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

This week, I sit down with Lizzie Wong to break down 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and what it means for Pacific Island people. We talk through this year’s theme on ending digital violence and why online abuse is now one of the biggest threats facing Pacific women and girls.I also share my own experience with cyberbullying, and together we unpack the different forms of online harassment that many Pacific women face today. We discuss real solutions, practical safety tips, and how our communities can create safer digital spaces for our sisters, daughters, and mothers.A powerful, necessary conversation for our Pacific people on activism, awareness, and protecting ourselves online. 💜🎙️Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this powerful episode, Akanesi dives deep into how God has been speaking through Scripture - revealing that not all traditions passed down through generations come from Him. Using the recent Catholic shift away from the belief that Mary is “Co-Redeemer” as a starting point, she explores how even long-held religious traditions can change when they don’t align with biblical truth.Akanesi shares a personal testimony about how God has been speaking through the exact same Scriptures again and again, revealing a powerful message for the Pacific.This episode directly confronts harmful Pacific practices that continue to hurt families today - kava addiction, tou‘a exploitation, domestic violence, and silence around suffering. It’s a bold reminder that culture should never have more authority than Christ.God is raising a generation that will say, “It ends with me.”Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this powerful new episode of Pacific Empowerment, host Akanesi dives into the truth behind the release of the Epstein Files, and why this moment matters for our Pacific communities.In this episode, we uncover who Jeffrey Epstein really was, what happened behind the luxury and influence, and the links to presidents, royalty, and elites. Most importantly, we confront the dangerous similarities in our own Pacific communities, especially in faikava spaces where some men believe culture and connection can protect abusive behaviour.This conversation is a reminder to us all: No title, no status, and no culture can protect a predator forever.🎧 Listen and share - because when Pacific survivors speak, truth rises and justice follows.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this week’s episode, I discuss academic research on the role of the tou‘a - the woman serving kava, and what these studies reveal about women’s experiences inside faikava spaces.I focus on the work of Hilda A. Port, author of the doctoral thesis How Do Evolving Kava-Related Practices Impact the Role of Tongan Women Living in Aotearoa? Her research highlights the realities faced by tou‘a, including the cultural expectations, the vulnerability in certain kava settings, and how evolving practices have changed the way women are viewed and treated in these environments.Alongside this academic perspective, I share real stories from Tongan women and men about faikava and tou'a, including my first testimony from Nauru about kava abuse. These testimonies reveal what is truly happening in our communities and why open conversations are needed now more than ever.This episode is for anyone who wants to understand the truth behind the tou‘a role, beyond cultural tradition and academic debate. It’s time to address what’s really going on.Watch on YouTube, or listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

Episode Description:In this episode, I analyze Dr. Apo Aporosa’s article of the University of Waikato, "De-mythologizing and Re-branding of Kava as the New ‘World Drug’ of Choice” - a paper that defends kava as safe and culturally misunderstood. But here’s the real question: Can studies done on kava tablets in laboratories truly represent the reality of Pacific Island men drinking bowl after bowl every night?I also share real testimonies from wives in Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga, women whose husbands’ kava addiction and faikava lifestyle have led to broken families, financial struggles, and emotional pain.Finally, I offer advice for women who are going through this: those dealing with cheating or addicted husbands.This episode challenges the academic narrative with lived experience, exposing what happens when research misses reality.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

Kava addiction has become a silent epidemic in the Pacific, breaking homes, stealing time, and blinding our people to their God-given purpose.In this episode, I read the first testimony from a Samoan wife of an addicted 'ava man.The response to my kava videos was overwhelming, hundreds of voices from Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, PNG, and across the Pacific opened up about the pain and destruction caused by kava addiction. I share those heartfelt comments, stories of healing, and warnings from families who have lived through the consequences.I also talk about how the devil is using kava as a quiet weapon to destroy families and distract our people from their true purpose.This is more than conversation, it’s a wake-up call for the Pacific.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

Many believe kava is safer than alcohol or drugs, but is it really? In this episode, we take an honest look at the hidden effects of kava, alcohol, and drugs on our Pacific communities.We begin by comparing their impact on addiction, health, families, and spirituality - exposing what’s often disguised as “culture.” We also receive our first testimony from a Fijian wife of a grog man (the Fijian version of a faikava man), sharing the real pain and struggles of families living with kava addiction.Beyond awareness, this episode also explores better, smarter ways to use kava - turning it into an opportunity for economic growth rather than destruction - promoting innovation, responsible use, and a kava industry that uplifts our people instead of keeping them trapped in overconsumption.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this powerful episode, I dive into two major conversations happening right now - one global, one close to home.First, we look at the historic peace deal between Israel and Palestine that was signed this week - a moment the world has waited decades for. I break down what this agreement means, the background behind the conflict, and why this event is being called one of the most significant milestones in modern history. We’ll also explore how this peace deal connects to us here in the Pacific, our faith, and what lessons we can take from it as people who value unity, forgiveness, and peace.Then, I turn to a question that’s been flooding my social media lately: “Is kava the problem, or is it the individual?” This topic has sparked passionate debate across the Pacific. I unpack the cultural, health, and spiritual sides of kava - exploring where tradition ends and abuse begins, and how we can reclaim balance in our communities.Join me as we connect global headlines with Pacific realities - faith, culture, and the deeper meaning behind peace, both in the world and in our homes.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this week’s episode, I talk about the first-ever policy on social kava use introduced by Otago University - a bold and necessary step toward bringing structure, safety, and accountability to kava practices.I also continue with Part 2 of the testimonies from wives of faikava men, sharing raw and emotional stories that reveal the damaging effects of kava abuse - on families, marriages, and the wellbeing of Pacific women.These stories are a reminder that while kava holds deep cultural significance, its misuse has created painful realities that can no longer be ignored.This episode connects policy, culture, and personal pain - showing that real change starts with open conversations, courage, and accountability.🎙️ Let’s talk about the real impact of kava - from university halls to the faikava circle.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, I read out the testimonies of women who have served as tou‘a in faikava circles and bravely shared their experiences of sexual abuse. These are stories that have been silenced for too long - stories of pain, exploitation, and trauma, but also of courage in speaking out.By giving voice to these women, we confront the darker side of faikava that many in our community would rather ignore. This episode is not about shaming culture but about protecting our women, raising awareness, and demanding accountability.It’s a call to action for families, churches, leaders, and our wider Pacific community to recognize the harm, break the cycle, and create safer spaces for future generations.⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains testimonies of sexual abuse that may be distressing for some listeners.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, I dive into the stories of fierce women throughout history - biblical heroines like Deborah, the prophet and judge who led Israel into battle, and Queen Esther, who risked her life to save her people. I’ll also share the stories of world changers like Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, Malala, and Oprah, along with Pacific women like Queen Salote Tupou III of Tonga, Dame Whina Cooper of Aotearoa, and Hilda Heine of the Marshall Islands, the first female head of state in Micronesia.These are the women who refused to stay quiet, who broke barriers, who carried nations, and who stood up when the world told them to sit down.I also reflect on my own journey - speaking up against the faikava and tou’a issues, and breaking the silence on taboo topics in the Pacific community that we rarely talk about. Because change doesn’t come from silence, it comes from courage, even when it’s uncomfortable.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, I begin with the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk and explore his powerful views on marriage, family, and faith. From there, we shift closer to home, sharing raw, real testimonies from the wives of faikava men. These voices uncover the hidden struggles behind the bowl, from emotional pain to cultural silence.We also look at the deeper impact of the tou‘a role in marriages and the quiet but destructive reality of kava addiction. Together, these stories highlight the urgent need to address how faikava culture is affecting families in the Tongan and wider Pacific community.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, we dive into the history and role of the tou‘a - women who serve kava in Tongan faikava circles, and why Tonga’s practice is different from other Pacific regions. We explore how the role connects to kinship, culture, and power, and how it has shifted over time with church influence, migration, and modern kava clubs. Most importantly, we share real testimonies from women who have served as tou‘a, bringing to light their lived experiences of dignity, pressure, and in some cases, disrespect and harm.This is a conversation about culture, gender, and change, about breaking silence and re-imagining traditions so they uplift rather than degrade.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, I sit down with Laki Mafi, founder of Legacy in Motion, to dive deep into men’s mental health and healing. We begin with an open conversation about the faikava culture and tou‘a issues from a man’s perspective — a side of the discussion we don’t often hear. Laki also shares his personal healing journey, the importance of breaking stigma around men opening up, and the mindset shifts needed for growth.To wrap up, Laki offers marital advice for couples, drawing from both his personal experiences and his work in the mental health space. This is a powerful and honest conversation that sheds light on men’s struggles, pathways to healing, and the role of strong relationships in building healthy communities.For Non-Tongan Listeners: Faikava is drinking kava in a group setting, and a tou'a is the single woman who sits and serves the kava to men in faikava.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this powerful episode of Pacific Empowerment, Akanesi Kaufusi opens up about facing online bullies after speaking out on faikava and the harmful customs that silence women. Instead of letting the attacks win, she transformed the experience into fuel for growth and empowerment.Drawing wisdom from books like Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, Don Miguel Ruiz’s The Four Agreements, Brené Brown’s Daring Greatly, and Ryan Holiday’s The Obstacle Is the Way, Akanesi shares practical strategies to rise above criticism, protect your peace, and turn obstacles into opportunities. This episode is a reminder that bullies only win if you hand them your power.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, I sit down with domestic violence survivor Lizzie Wong as she bravely shares her personal story. Today, Lizzie works in a Domestic Violence Center, supporting survivors and strengthening services across communities. She is also the founder of the non-profit Fijian Diaspora, dedicated to empowering Pacific women survivors of domestic violence. Together, we talk about resilience, healing, and creating a future where both men and women are safe, healed, and becoming better human beings.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this powerful episode, we tackle three big topics that are shaping conversations in our Pacific communities.First, we address the growing issue of sexualising women in modern kava sessions - how a respected cultural role is being distorted, and what this means for our traditions and values.Next, we look at church donations: the heart behind giving, what the Bible actually says about generosity, and how manipulation from the pulpit can hurt families and communities.Finally, we dive into the #MeToo movement - how it started, how it brought down some of the world’s most powerful figures, and the lessons we can apply here in the Pacific to break cycles of silence, protect the vulnerable, and drive real change.This episode isn’t about judgement - it’s about love for our people, truth-telling, and the hope that even one story shared or one truth spoken could transform a life.🎧 Listen in, reflect, and let’s be part of a movement that uplifts, protects, and empowers the Pacific.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

What does it really mean to be rich the right way? In this episode, we dive deep into the truth about money, success, and faith. From Shannon Sharpe’s recent downfall to the story of Job’s unshakable faith, and even the billion-dollar journey of YouTube’s MrBeast - we’ll explore how wealth can either build you up or break you down.You’ll hear how the Bible warns against the love of money, why poverty can push people into desperate choices, and how laziness and poor mindsets have held back our Pacific communities for generations. We’ll also look at powerful examples of what it means to use wealth as a tool, not a master, to bless others and glorify God.If you’ve ever wondered how to build wealth without losing your values, your faith, or your soul - this episode is for you.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this heartfelt episode of Pacific Empowerment, we honor the life and legacy of George “Fiji” Veikoso, whose journey from humble beginnings in Fiji to becoming the voice of the Pacific is a true testimony of persistence and passion. We dive into the powerful lesson of Napoleon Hill’s Three Feet from Gold — a story that reminds us why so many give up just before success. I’ll also share my own journey of building Siuhuu and the struggles that test me daily, plus the inspiring story of a Tongan woman who chose long-term investments over quick gains to build a legacy for her family. This episode is a call to our Pacific people: don’t chase quick money. Instead, build with passion, invest wisely, and create freedom and generational wealth that will last.If you’ve ever felt like throwing in the towel, this episode is for you - because the truth is, most people give up right before their breakthrough, and I’m here to make sure you’re not one of them.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

We start this episode by talking about the recent CEO-employee affair at the Coldplay concert, and the lessons we can all learn from it. From there, we dive into a topic many avoid: Leadership, Marriage, and Affairs.Why do some leaders risk everything behind closed doors? What role do grief, pressure, or ego really play?Drawing from Esther Perel’s The State of Affairs, I unpack the deeper reasons behind infidelity - not just lust, but emotional disconnection, identity loss, and the 80/20 rule.I also share my own story - 11 years of marriage, tested and refined. Along the way, I offer relationship advice for young people and married couples navigating infidelity.This episode is real, challenging, and necessary. Let’s talk about the things no one wants to sa, but everyone needs to hear,Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we dive into the importance of speaking up against injustice, even when it feels like you're standing alone.I explore the stories of global heroes like Rosa Parks, Malala Yousafzai, Nelson Mandela, and biblical figures like Moses and Esther - ordinary people who used their voices to spark extraordinary change. We also confront the culture of silence in Pacific Island communities, where tradition, respect, and faith are sometimes used to protect injustice rather than confront it.This episode isn’t just about history, it’s about our story. It’s a call to action for Pacific Islanders everywhere: to speak truth, to break generational silence, and to become bold voices for justice, healing, and transformation.And for the first time, I’m opening up this podcast to you. If you have a story to tell about injustice, corruption, or anything you’ve stayed silent about for too long, I invite you to share it. Whether it's through a conversation on this podcast or anonymously through email, your voice matters.📧 Share your story: [email protected] starts with a voice.Let it be yours.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, I open up about the real challenges I’ve faced building Siuhuu, a fully operational e-commerce platform for the Pacific, and how Tall Poppy Syndrome is blocking the growth our region desperately needs.From constant messages asking to “collaborate” while quietly trying to copy the platform, to seeing funding and energy wasted on reinventing what already exists, I share what it’s really like to build something that challenges the status quo in the Pacific. We talk about why it’s often our own people holding us back, how competition at the lowest level keeps us poor, and why we need to focus on collaboration, payment systems, and logistics instead of duplicating what’s already working.And because I don’t want you to get stuck in negativity, I end this episode with practical guidance on how to create your vision board, so you stay focused on building your purpose and don’t get distracted by people who don’t see your vision.If you care about seeing the Pacific move forward, this one’s for you.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

Is faith alone enough to truly change us? In this episode, we dive deep into a topic often considered taboo in our Pacific communities: the connection between faith, hidden wounds, and true healing. Growing up in the church, many of us were taught that faith and prayer alone would change us - but why do cycles of hurt, anger, and generational trauma still continue?We explore why faith and inner work must go together, how unhealed wounds affect the way we treat ourselves and our loved ones, and why breaking these cycles is crucial for our families and future generations. Drawing from biblical examples, personal stories, and insights from psychology, this episode will challenge you to reflect on your journey and encourage you to take the steps needed for true transformation.Listen until the end, reflect deeply, and decide for yourself. It’s time to break the cycle and become who God created you to be.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, I dive deep into what it really takes to build mental toughness - especially as a Pacific Islander navigating the pressures of life, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. I share stories from my own journey, lessons from books like Think and Grow Rich and The Secret, and the mindset shifts that helped me overcome self-doubt, cultural expectations, and emotional challenges. If you’ve ever struggled with negative thoughts, criticism, or feeling like you're not enough - this episode is for you.Let’s build the resilience you need to rise.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this episode, I share how I transformed my mindset - from self-doubt and pressure to self-belief and purpose. I talk about the principles I applied, the steps I took, and the books that helped me grow, including Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. I also reflect on how these changes challenged cultural expectations and helped me start healing and building confidence. I hope this episode encourages you to work on yourself, believe in your vision, and take the first step toward a better you.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment

In this first episode, I open up about my childhood, the struggles I’ve faced, and the journey that led me to become an entrepreneur. I share the real story behind why I started this podcast - to inspire, uplift, and empower Pacific Islanders to believe in their dreams, take action, and create change. This is where it all begins.Support the showHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.Sign the Petition to ban tou'a and protect women and children.            https://pasifikaempowerment.org/campaignsYou can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment