Kafa Kollective weaves connection and leadership at Toi Rauwhārangi

First created in 2020 to help Pacific students navigate the challenges of COVID-19, the Kafa Kollective was developed to bring ākonga (students) together through connection and encouragement. Its name is inspired by kafa – the traditional sinnet lashing used in the Pacific to bind the structure of a fale (house/building).

Director Pacific Student Success Melvin Apulu says Kafa Kollective is an example of how culturally grounded Pacific initiatives can create better academic outcomes for students.

“It’s about nurturing leadership, building networks and ensuring Pacific voices are visible in every space, from classrooms to communities,” Melvin says.

Students involved in Kafa Kollective provide mentoring within Toi Rauwhārangi and take part in outreach events such as school expos. The 2025 cohort of student mentors come from a range of disciplines across design, fine arts, music and screen arts. They act as advocates for their peers and link them to Massey’s student support systems.

Pacific Creative Navigator Sosefina Filo, a Bachelor of Design (Hons) graduate and original Kafa Kollective member, says she is proud to help guide the next generation of Pacific creatives.

“Kafa Kollective gave me a sense of belonging when I was a student, so stepping into this leadership role feels like giving back. It’s about helping Pacific students feel supported and confident, while also showing younger creatives that a future in the arts is not only possible but celebrated here,” Sosefina says.

The revival of the programme delivery this year has included the creation of a dedicated Pacific Creative Navigator role, thanks to funding from the Pacific Student Success team supported by the Pukeahu campus Fale Pasifika.

Associate Dean Pacific Igelese Ete says the programme is central to the College of Creative Arts Pacific Strategy.

“Kafa Kollective weaves students together like the kafa that strengthens a fale. It’s a beautiful example of Pacific leadership and creativity flourishing in the university environment,” Iglese says.

The programme aligns with Massey’s university-wide strategic initiative Pūrehuroatanga which aims to lift student success and ensure equity and parity for all students, with a particular focus on ākonga Māori, Pacific learners, disabled and neurodiverse students, digital innovation and student journey programmes.

Find out more about support and opportunities for Pacific students on the Pacific at Massey webpage.