PAYA's First-Ever MoU — A New Chapter in Pacific Youth Empowerment
In a historic moment for the Pacific-Australia Youth Association Inc. (PAYA), we are thrilled to announce the signing of our first-ever Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Vaiangina Project, a community initiative based in Tonga. This landmark partnership marks a significant step forward in our mission to empower Pacific youth and create positive change in our communities.
On Wednesday 14th August 2024, the signing ceremony took place at the State Library of NSW in Sydney, Australia. Mr Dominic de Moura McCarthy, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of PAYA represented the Pacific-Australia Youth Association Inc., whilst Mr Lafaele Mahe Veukiso, Founder of The Vaiangina Project, signed on the Tongan community project’s behalf. Lafaele also volunteers with PAYA as the Chief Engagement Officer, a role that has enabled PAYA to grow our partnerships in Tonga since our Youth Leadership Summit Nuku’alofa 2023.
A Shared Vision for the Future
This MoU signifies more than just a formal agreement; it represents a shared commitment to collaboration, mutual support, and a common goal of uplifting young people across the Pacific. The essence of our partnership is clear: PAYA and The Vaiangina Project will strive to collaborate hand-in-hand on impactful workshops, community events, and youth-focused initiatives in Tonga.
Together, we will leverage our collective knowledge, networks, and resources to create opportunities for young people, while also promoting the valuable work being done by both organisations. Through the exchange of ideas and mutual promotion, we aim to inspire and connect youth in Tonga and right across the region.
The Vaiangina Project: Guided by Pasifika Values
The Vaiangina Project is more than just a community initiative; it is a mission driven by faith, nurtured by strong relationships, and empowered by freedom. These core values align with PAYA’s own principles, making this partnership a natural fit.
Faith (Tui): At the heart of The Vaiangina Project is a deep spiritual foundation, symbolised by the name Vaiangina, which translates to "water, blown by wind, swift waters". This faith sustains their mission and drives their efforts to make a positive impact.
Nurturing Ties (Tauhi Va): The Vaiangina Project places great importance on relationships, recognising that strength comes from the bonds we build with others. By honouring the efforts of past generations, they strive to create a legacy of warmth and support that benefits all.
Freedom (Tau'ātaina): Freedom of opinion, choice, and action is a cornerstone of The Vaiangina Project's approach. This principle ensures that all voices are heard, and that their initiatives are carried out with respect for each individual.
Looking Ahead: A Promising Partnership
The signing of this MoU with The Vaiangina Project is the beginning of an exciting new chapter for PAYA to grow our outreach in Tonga and support local communities. Since holding our Youth Leadership Summit in Nuku’alofa in November 2023, where 46 delegates from 10 countries and territories visited the Kingdom, we have been looking for new ways to deepen our engagement activities. We are eager to see the impact of our combined efforts and look forward to the many opportunities this partnership will bring. As we embark on this journey together, we remain committed to our shared vision of empowering Pacific youth and providing opportunities to support community engagement.
