Inaugural Tuihala Retreat
Applications Open for TUIHALA: A Leadership Retreat for Emerging Pasifika Women in Sport
We (Pasifika SiS) have opened applications for TUIHALA, a new leadership retreat designed to equip and empower emerging elite Pasifika women working across the sport and recreation sector.
Taking place in September this year, the Tuihala Overnight Retreat will bring together a cohort of aspiring and established leaders for a culturally grounded leadership experience focused on identity, connection, wellbeing and professional growth. Through workshops, talanoa, and shared learning, participants will have the opportunity to strengthen both their leadership capability and their connections with other Pasifika women across Aotearoa. This year’s theme is, The Greatness We Carry.
While Pasifika communities continue to make significant contributions to sport at every level, Pasifika women remain underrepresented in leadership positions across the sector. TUIHALA has been developed to help address this gap by creating a space where participants can learn, reflect, and lead from a place of cultural confidence.
"Athletes spend so much of their lives performing. TUIHALA creates space to reconnect with who they are beyond performance," said Fila Fuamatu, Executive Director at Pasifika SiS.
"We don't need to teach Pasifika women to be leaders because they already are. TUIHALA is about creating a space where they can simply come and be, to remember the greatness they carry."
The retreat forms part of Pasifika SiS' ongoing commitment to increasing Pasifika Women and Girls’ representation and leadership throughout New Zealand's sport and recreation sector, through programmes that are community-led, culturally responsive and focused on long-term impact.
Applications are open to Pasifika women who are involved in sports at an elite level and are passionate about making a positive contribution within sport and recreation. Successful applicants will join a supportive network of peers and mentors while taking part in a unique leadership experience designed specifically for Pasifika women.
Applications are now open and close on the 10th of August 2026.
To apply use this link.
About Pasifika Sisters In Sport
Pasifika Sisters In Sport (Pasifika SiS) is a charitable organization dedicated to strengthening Pasifika leadership, participation and influence across sport and recreation. Through research, leadership development, networking and advocacy, Pasifika SiS works alongside communities to create more equitable opportunities for Pasifika Women and Girls throughout Aotearoa and the wider Pacific.
Media Contact
Kara-Lynne Enari
Pasifika Sisters In Sport
Email: kara-lynne@pasifikasis.org
Phone: +64 22 3013763
Website: www.pasifikasis.org