Blog Posts

Blog

Welcome to the inside of the mind of Alfred Tora. These blog posts are opinions, thoughts, and expressions of an aspiring thinker of things. Enjoy the reads, leave your comments, and stay positive!

Insights from an Indigenous Knowledge Conference

The inaugural Indigenous Knowledge conference in Fiji, organized by FNU and partners, focused on the theme of Vuku ni Vanua, emphasizing the importance of indigenous wisdom. Attendees discussed the need for more dialogue about indigeneity and collaboration among social groups, highlighting the gap between research and application for community benefit. The conference aimed to foster…
Pasifika and Self-imposed Limitations.

Self-imposed limitations hold us back from reaching our full potential. As Pasifika, I believe this is something we need to become more aware of and work towards overcoming as a people.
Anchored in Culture: How Pasifika Worldviews Can Shape the Future of Work

The modern workplace’s shift towards individualism negatively impacts organizational culture. Embracing Pasifika cultural values can foster relational leadership, trust, and collaboration, emphasizing community and service over status. By integrating holistic wellbeing approaches and open communication, businesses can enhance morale and inclusivity, making cultural principles a competitive advantage in creating sustainable workplaces.
VakaTabu: My Bogi Drau Experience.

After my grandmother’s funeral, I observed a traditional mourning period called bogi drau. During this time, I reflected on my appearance and societal stigma regarding unkempt hair and beards. The experience illuminated cultural insights and psychological impacts of mourning, culminating in a ceremonial lifting of the tabu that fostered communal support and healing.
Current Storytelling: Weaving Elders’ Stories Across the Pacific

In this creative storytelling project born from the Pacific Island Leaders of Tomorrow program, we set out to honor the voices of our elders—iTaukei, Samoan, and Tongan—whose memories of home, migration, and identity hold deep cultural truths. What followed was a collaboration that transformed their oral histories into digital tapa artworks and word search puzzles.
“Why Pacific Workplaces Struggle with Feedback Culture—And How to Fix It”

Pasifika businesses struggle with providing feedback. The feedback culture can sometimes feel “un-Pasifika”, abrasive, and even disrespectful. Here are some ways to make feedback more Pasifika-friendly!