Tula’i Tuakana Development
The Tula’i Tuakana Development Programme is a structured leadership pathway for Tula’i Ngāue alumni to give back, grow, and lead through the Tuakana-Teina model. Rooted in our Tula’i values of Love, Humility, Reciprocal Relationships, and Respect, this programme ensures leadership is developed, nurtured, and passed down across generations.
Programme Objectives
🔹 Reciprocal Leadership & Service
Tuakana mentor and safeguard future Tula’i Ngāue cohorts, ensuring that leadership is a cycle of giving back and lifting others up.
🔹 Structured Leadership Progression
Tuakana can serve for a maximum of three years, progressing through:
Junior Tuakana (Year 1) – Learning and leading under the guidance of Senior Tuakana.
First-Year Senior Tuakana (Year 2) – Taking on greater responsibilities in mentoring and programme delivery.
Second-Year Senior Tuakana (Year 3) – Acting as key mentors and decision-makers, supporting both Junior Tuakana and new Senior Tuakana.
🔹 Access to External Mentorship & Pathways
Senior Tuakana receive one-on-one and group mentoring from external professionals, leaders, and community mentors, guiding them toward career, education, and leadership pathways beyond Tula’i.
🔹 Cultural & Personal Growth
Through the Tuakana-Teina model, Tuakana strengthen their Pasifika identity, build cultural knowledge, and develop skills that empower them as leaders in their communities.
🔹 Participation in Wider Tula’i Programmes & Projects
Tuakana have the opportunity to actively support and contribute to other Tula’i initiatives, including mentoring, wellbeing workshops, skill development workshops, event support, community projects, and leadership development activities, further broadening their experience and impact.
🔹 Special Recognition & Learning Excursion
Second-Year Senior Tuakana are honored for their long service and dedication with a special learning excursion, providing an opportunity to broaden their leadership horizons and celebrate their journey.
opportunities for tuakana
🔥 Mentorship & Coaching – Senior Tuakana mentor Junior Tuakana, and all Tuakana guide future Tula’i Ngāue cohorts.
🔥 Leadership Development – Hands-on training, team-building activities, and real-world leadership practice.
🔥 External Mentorship & Career Pathways – Connections to mentors, networks, and professional development opportunities beyond Tula’i.
🔥 Cultural & Historical Learning – Engaging with Pasifika values, history, and identity, including the cultural and Te Tiriti workshops.
🔥 Project-Based Initiatives – Designing and leading potential community-driven solutions to real-world challenges.
🔥 Engagement in Other Tula’i Programmes & Events – Opportunities to participate in and support broader Tula’i projects, deepening their leadership experience.
🔥 Recognition & Growth – Second-Year Senior Tuakana receive a special leadership excursion to mark their service and continued growth.
The Tula’i Tuakana Development Programme is a stepping stone for emerging Pasifika leaders—equipping them with experience, mentorship, and pathways to step into greater leadership roles in their communities and beyond. 🌊✨
Tep - Tuakana 2024
“…Being a tuakana mentor for Tula’i Ngaue enabled me to build my confidence and understanding to encourage our future pasifika leaders to thrive and succeed..”
Chris - Tuakana 2023
