Hon Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga
Minister for Pacific Peoples
30 November 2016 Media Statement
Pacific New Zealand youth success celebrated
The success of young Pacific New Zealanders has been celebrated at the 2016 Prime Minister’s Pacific Youth Awards held
at Parliament this evening.
Pacific Peoples Minister Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga says the awards recognise excellence and achievement in commerce, the
arts, sports, community and leadership.
“The nine inspiring winners have been recognised for their impressive contributions to New Zealand’s economic, social
and cultural life, “ Mr Lotu-Iiga says.
“The government is committed to ensuring more Pacific people tread the pathway to success. We want young Pacific New
Zealanders to realise their dreams, whether that’s to be an entrepreneur, sports star or business leader.”
“These inspiring young people are role models for all New Zealanders. They are excelling academically, making
significant contributions to their community, or demonstrating a skill in business,” says Mr Lotu-liga.
“The awards will open new doors for the winners, offering new opportunities for their careers and lives.”
“Congratulations to all the winners and their families. We are all incredibly proud of what you have achieved. Thank you
to our sponsors, who are helping making dreams come true for these young people.”
The 2016 Prime Minister’s Pacific Youth Awards were sponsored by Air New Zealand, the Auckland Council, Ako Aotearoa,
the GCSB, Creative New Zealand, the BNZ, New Zealand Institute of Sport and Deloittes.
The categories and winners are:
Air NZ Leadership & InspirationJosiah Tavita Tualamali’i , 21, ChristchurchAuckland Council Community Star AwardEmma Takataka, 21, OtaraAko Aotearoa STEM AwardJames Penfold, 20, Dannemora, AucklandGCSB STEM AwardRoneima Teumohenga, 18, Palmerston NorthCreative NZ Arts & Creativity AwardJahra Wasasala, 24, Blockhouse Bay, Auckland BNZ Commercial & Corporate AwardManako Nemaia, AucklandNZIS (NZ Institute of Sport) Sports & Fitness AwardAyesha Leti-I'iga, 17, Porirua
Mafutaga Tau, 18, PoriruaDeloitte Business & Enterprise AwardSanita Betham, 18, Wellington
Visit www.mpp.govt.nz or use the hashtags #PMPYA or #PacificStars for more details.