Transforming mental health from a Pasifika perspective

It is fair to say that in Aotearoa New Zealand we are currently dealing with significant changes to our mental health and addiction services.

The Transforming Mental Health Conference, held in Auckland on 22 and 23 July, sought to address some of the larger questions and challenges this brings.

Le Va’s chief executive and general manager, who are also both clinical psychologists, presented at the conference, turning a Pasifika lens upon the issues facing the mental health and addiction sector.

Denise Kingi-‘Ulu’ave presents at Transforming Mental Health 2024

Chief executive, Denise Kingi-‘Ulu’ave, gave a presentation at the conference on ‘Suicide prevention strategies: Saving lives together’, where she explored a range of global suicide prevention strategies and highlighted the outstanding results we have seen from our internationally renowned LifeKeepers programme.

Delving into the evidence-based suicide prevention strategies that form the basis of her doctoral research, Denise spoke about empowering communities, professionals and individuals to work collaboratively, and how we can learn from each other.

“It has been heartening to hear learn of so many innovative strategies to ensuring our mental health services are accessible and meet the needs of all New Zealanders. Collaboration across the sector and sharing our expertise sets us on a path to achieving an effective and inclusive mental healthcare system in Aotearoa.”

Dr Elizabeth Mati and Ross Phillips, Pathways Business Manager

Dr Elizabeth Mati, Le Va’s general manager, was part of a panel discussion on the importance of sustainable funding for the development of the mental health workforce.

With the topic of ‘Understaffed & overwhelmed: Strategies for the mental health workforce’, the panel led a heartfelt and passionate conversation about exploring innovative approaches to managing workload, preventing burnout and improving wellbeing.

Taking part in and contributing to events such as the Transforming Mental Health Conference reflects Le Va’s important work in supporting the development of the Pasifika mental health and addiction workforce in Aotearoa.

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Learn more about Le Va’s Mental Health and Addiction portfolio of work.