Pacific excellence was front and centre at the 2026 SPACPAC Leadership Breakfast, held two weeks ago at Elim Church, Christchurch. More than an awards event, the breakfast was a powerful celebration of the talent, determination, and potential of Pasifika youth who are already making a difference in their schools, families, and communities.
From Christchurch to Ashburton, students, families, educators, community leaders, and supporters gathered to honour 45 Pasifika student leaders from 22 schools. The morning shone a spotlight on emerging leaders whose commitment to service, academic achievement, cultural pride, and leadership is helping shape a brighter future for Pacific communities across Canterbury.
The occasion also marked a significant milestone for Tangata Atumotu Trust, with the breakfast being the first SPACPAC initiative led and delivered by our Loto Toa Team in collaboration with SPACPAC Canterbury.
"For the Loto Toa team, the event reflected our commitment to strengthening wellbeing through cultural identity and connection. Events like this serve as an important reminder to our young people that their leadership matters and deserves to be celebrated. It's especially meaningful for TAT to be an active member of the SPACPAC collective and contribute to initiatives designed to uplift Pasifika students," said Loto Toa Programme Lead, Bianca Seinafo-Tuilaepa.
Throughout the morning, stories of service, resilience, cultural pride, and achievement highlighted the incredible impact Pasifika youth are already making across the region. The atmosphere was filled with pride and encouragement as students were recognised not only for what they have accomplished, but for the leaders they are becoming.
Hosted by SPACPAC Canterbury, a collective of Pacific organisations and leaders committed to strengthening outcomes for Pacific communities, the breakfast reflects a shared investment in the next generation. Through initiatives like the SPACPAC Leadership Breakfast, the collective continues to create opportunities for emerging leaders to thrive and make a positive impact in their communities.
We are grateful to SPACPAC Canterbury for the opportunity to collaborate on this meaningful event and congratulate all students who were recognised. Your leadership, service, and dedication are helping build stronger Pacific communities for generations to come.
