Last week we had the honor of speaking at the City of Melton’s Curious About Culture event, focusing on Oceanic Communities. This inspiring initiative was thoughtfully curated by Henry Tamasese from the Community Development team at Melton.
Sharing the panel with Bou Hauraki from CMY, Marie Pewhairangi and Priscilla Maiava from Melton Warriors Rugby
Melton City Council has actively promoted and celebrated our community’s cultural diversity for many years and is continually striving to improve awareness and understanding of the economic, educational, social and cultural benefits of diversity and to mitigate the effects of discrimination and cultural isolation.
The event provided a valuable opportunity to connect with local service providers and our vibrant Oceanic community, all working to uplift and empower our youth. We heard real, heartfelt stories about the challenges and triumphs faced by our people—spanning housing and financial struggles to the increasing incarceration rates among our youth.

It was encouraging to see the dedication of organisations like @charis_youthandcommunity, @centre.for.multicultural.youth, @nmp.kapahaka, @maori_warden, and many others. These groups are incorporating Oceanic perspectives and cultural frameworks into their systems, creating tailored solutions for our people.

At Living Koko, our mission has always been rooted in supporting the independence and financial empowerment of the Pacific. We are proud to stand alongside Indigenous and global Indigenous communities, who are working tirelessly to navigate and challenge post-colonial systems that, when examined closely, often disadvantage the very people they claim to serve. Our values are centered on collaboration, respect for cultural wisdom, and sustainability—not just of the environment but of our communities and traditions.

We stay true to these values by sourcing ethically, fostering transparent partnerships, and ensuring that our practices uplift the communities we engage with. Whether it’s through our fair-trade initiatives, community workshops, or advocacy efforts, we strive to honor the voices of our ancestors while paving the way for a more equitable future. At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to shared knowledge, cultural resilience, and empowering our people to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Together, we work to create pathways to equity, healing, and strength for all.