Fonofale Model | Pacific Approach
Pacific Frameworks
The Nōku te Ao strategy is grounded in kaupapa Māori - so the work we do speaks to kaupapa Māori principles in some way. We do this to ensure that our work to end mental distress discrimination is equitable and benefits everyone in Aotearoa, and to be the best Te Tiriti o Waitangi partners that we can be.
Using an equity approach, Nōku te Ao also aims to create better outcomes for our Pasifika communities. Understanding that Pasifika communities may experience discrimination differently to Māori, we also encourage the use of Pacific frameworks and approaches. If this applies to your project, in your application, we ask that you speak to the use of the Fonofale model.
The Foundation or the Floor of the Fale: Aiga (Samoan), Kopu Tangata (Cook Islands), Kainga (Tonga), Magafaoa (Niue)/Family
This represents the family, which is the foundation for all Pacific Island cultures. The family can be a nuclear family, as well as an extended family. It can also be a constituted family that is bound by kinship, titles, marriage, partnership or a covenant agreement, and which forms the fundamental basis of Pacific Island social organisations. The history and genealogy are in the foundation/floor/family which ties them to titles, lands, motu/islands, sea and to the Gods of the Pacific, as well as to other cultures.
How this framework can be used in your project
Your project could look at how to advocate or support a family member who has lived or living experience of mental distress.
The Roof (Culture)
This represents cultural values and beliefs which shelter the family for life. Culture is dynamic and is constantly evolving and adapting. In New Zealand, culture includes the culture of New Zealand-raised Pacific people as well as those Pacific people born and raised in the islands.
How this framework can be used in your project
Use of languages, cultural processes and traditional practices to change the behaviour of those with prejudiced views of mental distress. What are some cultural ways which can be used positively to change stigmatising or discriminating behaviours?
Four Pou
Spiritual
The first pou relates to the sense of wellbeing which stems from a belief system. This can include either Christianity or traditional spirituality relating to nature, spirits, language, beliefs, ancestors and history, or a combination of both.
How this can be used in your project
Your workshop/talanoa/project could open and close with karakia/lotū.
Physical
The second pou relates to biological or physical wellbeing. It is the relationship of the body, which consists of the anatomy and physiology, as well as the physical or organic and inorganic substances (such as food, water, air and medications) that can have either positive or negative impacts on physical wellbeing.
How this can be used in your project
Your project could intersect with people who are disabled and have lived experience of mental distress or illness.It can look at platforming the stories of those who have intersecting discriminatory experiences.
Mental
This pou relates to the wellbeing, or the health of the mind, which involves thinking, emotions, and behaviours.
How this can be used in your project
Raising awareness around mental health conditions and translating them into various Pacific languages.
Other
The last pou relates to variables that can directly or indirectly affect health, such as gender, sexuality/sexual orientation, age, and socio-economic status.
How this can be used in your project
How accessible is your project? Think about intersectionality for Pasifika who may be disabled, or identify as rainbow.
The Cocoon or Circle
The Fale is encapsulated in a cocoon or circle that contains dimensions that have direct or indirect influence on one another.
Environment
This dimension addresses the relationships and uniqueness of Pacific people to their physical environment. The environment may be a rural or urban setting.
How this can be used in your project
Creating a safe space for people with lived experience of mental distress to share their story. This could look like creating a warm and welcoming environment for everyone, and including the presence of mental health first aiders for extra support.
Time
This dimension relates to the actual or specific time in history that impacts Pacific people.
How this can be used in your project
Pacific diasporas living in New Zealand might have a different understanding of mental distress. You could think about the knowledge of mental health being passed down through generations, with the aim of helping to end mental distress discrimination.
Context
This dimension relates to the where/how/what and the meaning it has for that person or people. Other contexts can include the country of residence; legal, political and socioeconomic matters.
How this can be used in your project
Your project could look to redefine what mental distress looks like for Pacific populations in New Zealand – for example, using non-traditional ways to change the behaviours of elders who have a more traditional mindset about mental health.
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There is no health without mental health
Help ensure everyone in Aotearoa has the tools to enjoy positive mental health and wellbeing.
