50 years of Polyfest: Le Va sponsors emerging Pacific leaders

“I knew it took a village to raise me, but now I will carry that village with me everywhere I go.”

More than 300 Pasifika student leaders came together in January to connect, share ideas and prepare for the incredible 50th anniversary of ASB Polyfest.

As sponsor of the 2025 Polyfest Leaders Conference, Le Va was proud to invest in the future of our emerging Pacific leaders as they got ready to shine at the world’s biggest Pacific festival.

Day one of the two-day conference began with an unforgettable sense of mana and connection. It was a humbling reminder of the richness of our Pacific cultures and the strength we draw from our collective identity.

Jim Stretton, senior project coordinator at Le Va, said of the event, “The Polyfest Leaders Conference was truly something special. For me, it meant so much to be part of something that uplifts and empowers the next generation. Seeing so many of our future Pacific leaders together in one space was incredibly powerful.”

Jim added, “I was fortunate to lead our I AM workshop, and it was evident how much it resonated with the students. Strengthening our culture strengthens our self worth, and this message fits beautifully with the enduring legacy of Polyfest.”

By embracing our cultural roots, we honour the treasures of our ancestors and shape a stronger future for generations to come – an approach that aligns well with this year’s Polyfest theme of ‘Legacy – a treasure handed down. He oha nō tua, he taonga tuku iho!’

Our Le Va team was deeply inspired by the energy and passion each student brought to the workshop, and honoured to stand alongside these emerging Pasifika leaders as they pave the way for the future.

One student said, “I knew it took a village to raise me, but now I will carry that village with me everywhere I go.”

That sentiment summed up the entire experience – helping these young leaders realise that when they perform, excel in school, and embrace their culture, they’re not just building their own legacy but also honouring their ancestors.