Learning from communities to better serve communities

Held at the Ōtara Music Arts Centre in July, the Clinical Psychology Fono brought together clinical psychology doctoral students from Massey and the University of Auckland for a day of learning, discussion and connection with Pasifika leaders, clinicians and researchers.

Now in its second year as a combined event, the Fono has become an important part of the doctoral clinical psychology curriculum. Established by Massey in 2019, the combined eventprovides students with the opportunity to engage directly with Pasifika perspectives, experiences and approaches to wellbeing; and start to build connections with future colleagues.

Organiser and clinical psychology Lecturer Professor Julia Ioane says the Fono is about preparing future psychologists to work alongside Pasifika communities with greater understanding and confidence.

"The purpose of the Fono is to increase students' knowledge, awareness and practice for working with Pasifika communities as upcoming clinical psychologists in Aotearoa New Zealand."

Rather than learning solely through lectures and textbooks, students hear directly from people whose lived experience and professional expertise help shape a deeper understanding of culturally responsive practice.

This year's speakers included Māori disability rights advocate Dr Huhana Hickey, senior clinical psychologist Dr Ainu'u Epenesa Olo-Whaanga, Associate Professor Sam Manuela from the University of Auckland and Pasifika community leader Brian Sagala. Together, they shared insights drawn from clinical practice, research, leadership and community experience.

The Fono is attended by all students in Massey's Albany-based clinical psychology doctoral programme and focuses on strengthening their understanding of working with Pasifika communities in Aotearoa.

Professor Ioane says bringing students together in this environment helps begin important conversations that extend well beyond the classroom.

"It's a way to open discussion, build knowledge and strengthen how we support and work alongside Pasifika communities in Aotearoa New Zealand."

Pasifika values of respect, reciprocity, humility and working together were woven through the programme, reflecting the importance of relationships, service and collective wellbeing in many Pasifika communities.

Head of the School of Psychology Professor Kirsty Ross says experiences like the Clinical Psychology Fono help ensure graduates are equipped to provide culturally responsive care in an increasingly diverse society.

As the programme continues to evolve through its partnership with the University of Auckland, the annual Fono remains focused on a shared goal: preparing future clinical psychologists to learn from communities so they can better serve them.