Our Governance Vaka

  • Sila Fagaesea Siaki

    Hailing from the villages of Avatele, Niue, and Lotoso’a–Sale’imoa and Faleu-Manono Island, located in the heart of the Pacific, Samoa, Sila Fagaesea Siaki is a dedicated and influential figure within the New Zealand Police, previously serving as the Pacific Responsiveness Manager for Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland). With over 25 years of experience in the force, Sila has been instrumental in fostering strong relationships between the police and Pasifika communities. His work focuses on addressing family violence and improving community safety through culturally sensitive approaches.

    Sila’s leadership and advocacy have been crucial in aligning police priorities with community needs, making significant strides toward reducing family violence and empowering Pasifika communities. His efforts continue to inspire and drive positive change within New Zealand’s diverse society.

    As current Chair of the Tula’i Board, Sila leverages his networks and experience to uplift and foster growth of the organisation. He is dedicated to empowering Pasifika to lead.

  • Dale Rasmussen

    Hailing from the villages of Vaiala and Tufiopa, Apia, Dale is a dedicated professional and former professional rugby player who currently serves as the General Manager at the Tuilaepa Youth Mentoring Service (TYMS). After a successful rugby career, Dale transitioned into property development and law before joining TYMS in early 2015. His passion for seeing Pacific and Māori young people achieve their full potential drew him to commit to this new journey of serving his community.

    His leadership and advocacy work focus on fostering positive change within the community and supporting youth development.

    A key member of the Tula'i Board, Dale leverages his extensive experience in both sports and law to contribute to the board's mission. His role involves driving innovative strategies and initiatives that align with the organization's goals of improving health and social outcomes for Pasifika and Māori communities. Dale's commitment to his community and his efforts to support youth development continue to inspire and drive positive outcomes.

  • Lisa Forbes

    Lisa is of Nukuroa/Mitiaro, Kūki Ᾱirani whakapapa. Born and raised in West Auckland she still calls it home with her husband and two tamariki. Lisa is purpose driven and has a vision to see individuals, whānau and communities flourish and thrive. She believes in collaboration and whānau centered approaches that are holistic and that will lead towards addressing inequities for Māori, Pacific People, and valuable communities in Aotearoa.

    She has studied Business through Auckland University of Technology and postgraduate studies around Leading Change for Good. She has held senior leadership roles across the banking, NGO, and health and social service sectors.

    A key member of the Tula'i Board, Lisa leverages her comprehensive knowledge and experience to support the organisation's mission. Her work emphasises the importance of innovative strategies and initiatives that improve health and social outcomes. Lisa's leadership on the board ensures that the organisation's priorities align with community needs, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and community engagement.

  • Mark Ikimouga

    Hailing from Niue, Mark Ikimouga is a passionate community advocate and Youth Development Facilitator at The Salvation Army Faith Factory Waitakere. With a Bachelor of Contemporary Ministry from AUC, Mark has dedicated his career to fostering positive change and supporting the growth of young people within the community1.

    As a Youth Development Facilitator, Mark plays a crucial role in creating and implementing programs that empower youth and encourage their personal and social development. His work focuses on building strong, supportive relationships and providing opportunities for young people to thrive.

    A key member of the Tula'i Board, Mark leverages his extensive experience in youth development to contribute to the board's mission. His efforts are aimed at improving health and social outcomes for Pasifika and Māori communities, ensuring that young people have the resources and support they need to succeed.

    Mark's dedication to his community and his commitment to youth development continue to inspire and drive positive change within the organization and beyond.

Our Operational Vaka

  • Tanya Zombos

    General Manager

    Hailing from the villages of Salimu and Afega, Samoa, and Kastellorizo Island of Greece, Tanya Zombos brings a wealth of experience and a strong educational and youth development background to her role as General Manager at Tula’i. With a Master of Business Management with Distinction in Strategic Management from the University of Auckland, Tanya has honed her skills in leadership and strategic planning. She also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Business, a Diploma in Christian Studies, a Certificate in Public Health from Massey University, a Certificate in Christian Ministry, and is currently working towards her Graduate Diploma in Applied Psychology.

    Tanya's career is marked by her dedication to community development and youth mentoring. She has previously served in various capacities, including roles at VisionWest, Le Va, Best Youth Academy (previously the largest dedicated Pacific Youth training provider), and Best Pacific Institute of Education. Her diverse experience and commitment to fostering positive change make her an invaluable asset to the Tula’i team.

  • Manusamoa Vaitofiga Fuimaono

    Lead Facilitator - Tula’i Ngāue & Tuakana Development

    Hailing from the villages of Salani and Falealili, Samoa, Vaitofiga Fuimaono is a dedicated community leader and youth mentor from New Zealand. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Pacific Studies and History, at the University of Auckland. Vaitofiga is passionate about empowering young people and fostering community engagement. He serves as the Lead Facilitator for Tula’i Ngāue and Tuakana Development, where he supports and guides young Pasifika individuals in their personal, leadership, and academic journeys. 

    Additionally, Vaitofiga was a Pacific and Youth Advisor in Community Engagement at the New Zealand Electoral Commission, where he worked to increase participation in the electoral process. Vaitofiga's commitment to his community and his academic pursuits highlight his dedication to making a positive impact and inspiring others. 

  • Faith Faumui

    Social Media Storyteller - Tusitala

    Hailing from the villages of Lepā, Papa i Sataua, Lalomanu, Saleaula and Faleula in Samoa, Faith Faumui is the creative force behind Tula'i's social media presence. As the Social Media Storyteller, Faith leverages her deep understanding of digital platforms to craft engaging and impactful narratives that resonate with the community.

    Faith's journey with Tula'i began as a participant in the Tula'i Pasifika Youth Leadership programme, where she discovered her passion for storytelling and her Samoan heritage. Her experience in the programme has equipped her with a unique perspective on the importance of cultural identity and community engagement.

    Currently in her final year of a conjoint degree in Law and Media, Faith combines her academic knowledge with her practical skills to create compelling content. Last year, she served as the Cultural Lead for the Pasifika Law Students' Association (PILSA), further demonstrating her commitment to cultural advocacy and leadership.

    With a background in media and communications, Faith excels at creating content that not only informs but also inspires. Her dedication to amplifying the voices of Pasifika youth and her commitment to fostering a strong sense of identity make her an invaluable member of the Tula'i team.

Our Advisors

Our 2024 Tuakana Vaka

Our 2023 Tuakana Vaka