Talanoa is a concept recognised in many Pacific island nations including Niue, Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Hawai’i and the Cook Islands. Broadly speaking, talanoa usually entails inclusive, participatory and transparent dialogue between all parties without a set format or structure.

The talanoa panels are intended to lay down the first strands of weaving in what is hoped, over time, will become sturdy baskets of knowledge in each area.

The first talanoa panel explored structural, systemic, and contextual factors that led to Pacific children and young people entering care. Some of the complexities around addressing these issues were canvassed, as well as the potential for developing systems underpinned by Pacific values and experiences. 

Panel members were: 

• Folasaitu Dr Julia Ioane, facilitator
• Cabrini ‘Ofa Makasiale
• Fuimaono Karl Pulotu Endemann
• Dr Sailau Sualii-Sauni
• Emeline Afeaki-Mafile’o