Abstract
Preliminary findings from an ongoing study partnership between the Pacific Trust Otago and the University of Otago have reported an association between measures of wellbeing, mental health and markers of metabolic ill-health in a cohort of Pacific Youth in Dunedin. Building on these findings, this study aimed to explore health and wellbeing from a Pacific Youth perspective and identify specific challenges to achieving this.
The study methods were underpinned by the University of Otago’s Pacific Research Protocols and drew inspiration from Kakala and Talanoa approaches. These were adapted to suit the needs of this study which employed the Photovoice method of data collection and a deductive thematic analytical approach.
Findings explore how existing frameworks, such as the Fonofale model of Pacific health, might be extended or revisited to reflect the perspective of Pacific Youth in New Zealand. In particular, this study suggested the need to acknowledge social connections as a component of health and wellbeing in and of itself, the need to recognise their evolving and dynamic perspective of culture and identity formation and their behaviours and attitudes towards food and alcohol. A proposed frangipani model is suggested as a starting point to a framework that acknowledges these findings.
We hope this study can form a basis for ongoing partnerships with the Pacific Trust Otago and the development of intervention programs to support health and wellbeing among Pacific Youth.