Life moves fast at PEP, and sometimes we blink and miss a moment. Last week was Fiji Language Week—Bula Vinaka to all! And this week, we’re diving straight into Niue Language Week—Fakalofa Lahi Atu! Both these weeks are a chance to celebrate the rich tapestry of languages and cultures that make up Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa —the vast, connected family of the Pacific.
At Pacific Enterprise People (PEP), we are both proud and humbled to serve these communities. Language weeks like these highlight not only the beauty of the words themselves but also the significance of the lands and cultures they represent.
A Perfect Pairing: Fiji and Niue Language Weeks
Ever wondered why these two language celebrations sit so closely together? The timing is no coincidence. Last week, Fiji marked 54 years of independence from British rule (since 1970), while this week, Niue is celebrating its 50th anniversary of becoming a self-governing nation in 1974 (in free association with New Zealand). These anniversaries remind us that, just like their languages, these lands endure—rich with tradition, history, and resilience.
Language, Land, and Climate
Celebrating these languages is about more than just words; it’s about recognising the connection between culture and the environment. The islands of the Pacific are bearing the brunt of climate change—despite contributing the least to the problem. When we honour these languages, we also honour the guardianship these communities have provided for their lands, waters, and skies through the centuries.
The Journey of Decolonisation
Fiji and Niue’s independence celebrations also serve as reminders that decolonisation is a long and complex journey. Political independence was only the first step. In the Pacific way, decolonisation isn't about separation—it’s about restoring balance and reawakening the power of indigenous knowledge. It’s about redefining power relationships so that indigenous cultures can thrive alongside modern systems, with equal footing and mutual respect.
Samoan Indigenous Governance: A Path Forward
Our founder, Salā Marie Young, is currently deep in research as part of her doctorate of business administration, exploring Samoan indigenous governance models. Her work focuses on activating ancestral wisdom while ensuring it remains interoperable with mainstream (colonised) systems. This space is both challenging and exciting, a fusion of tradition and innovation that holds immense potential for the future of governance in the Pacific. We can’t wait to share more insights with you as her journey unfolds—stay tuned!
Celebrating Together
To close, we want to honour these beautiful languages with traditional greetings:
Vinaka vakalevu (Thank you very much)
Kia monuina e aho (Have a blessed day)
Here’s to celebrating the Pacific’s vibrant languages, histories, and futures—together! 🌊
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