Wh?nau Ora and Talanoa: Generating and using knowledge to achieve Pacific family wellbeing and prosperity outcomes

Abstract

To effectively support Pacific families towards wellbeing and prosperity, the generation and use of knowledge needs to extend beyond data, measurement and indicators.  Knowledge and evidence requires multi-cultural validity and cultural congruence if it is to be effective in supporting Pacific families to achieve their aspirations. In this paper, we discuss the methodology of Talanoa, a culturally congruent approach to generating and using knowledge to support Pacific family wellbeing and prosperity. Through Wh?nau Ora, a culturally anchored approach to strengthening family wellbeing, and the methodology of Talanoa, Pasifika Futures has engaged 74,000 people or 25% of the Pacific population in New Zealand to achieve over 35,000 positive outcomes across health, education, economic, culture and leadership domains.