Moana
Waves
Waves, a symbol of the Pasifika young person in perpetual movement. In the framework, the sun and the moon are relational forces for tidal behaviour and the connections to the environment, (stars, winds, islands) that all impact on the ocean. Together these represent the culture, people, places, time and structures around young people, and how they use all of these resources to navigate their voyage. The point the tide turns inward and outward represent a rangatahi exploring their identity and acknowledging the essence of who they are. Both shoreline and ocean waves are a representation of deeper energy movements. The Pacific Ocean is home to the deepest trenches on earth reminding us rangatahi have reservoirs of positive energy and potential, within and around them, that can be drawn on by the practitioner. The metaphor of the wave acknowledges the depths of their stories, experiences, knowledge, context and life exchanges.
Apply Waves in your Practice
Listen carefully and respond with strong and open conversations.
Facilitate healing and creativity.
Respect and validate Pasifika youth experiences.
Reflection Questions
How am I honouring this Pasifika young person and being transparent in my conversations?
What am I doing that is creative and providing opportunities to grow and heal?
How am I navigating and validating youth experiences without judgement?
Dive deeper and see a Samoan perspective on values related to Waves
Respect - Fa’aaloalo: Fa’aaloalo is key to building a valued relationship with talavou. We respect them, their experiences, aiga (family), the things they have been through and all that is important to them. We don’t have to agree with it to respect it
Spirituality - Ola fa’aleagaga: Acknowledge time, tune into how or even if talavou understand their ancestors, their essence, and any spiritual beliefs and values they or their aiga may hold.
Love – Alofa: Value talavou, uphold their dignity, and see potential. Give acknowledgement.
