Meet The Fono Board

Our board

We proudly introduce The Fono Board - a passionate and diverse group of leaders in our community. Lending their wealth of knowledge and expertise, they guide our shared journey of positive impact in our families and communities.

Nacanieli Yalimaiwai

Chairperson

Fijian & English

Nacanieli, brings with him a strong connection and understanding of the social, cultural, political and economic contexts of our Pasifika communities. A Chartered Accountant and Lawyer, Nacanieli has 20 years of leadership in financial management, strategy, and policy in New Zealand.

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Dr Ruby Manukia-Schaumkel

Vice-Chairperson

Tongan & English

Ruby, boasts a law and policy career in New Zealand and abroad, including representing clients in trade law and foreign policy in the US. She also served as an elected member of Local Government NZ on the Whau local board.

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Latasi Koro

Secretary

Tokelauan, Samoan & English

Latasi has embraced leadership roles and coordinating events during her studies at the University of Auckland. She also co-founded the Pasifika Students Health Initiative driving her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

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Greg Traill

Board Member

Fijian & English

Greg is heavily engaged in local community work that uplifts youth and promotes healthy living. As well as his role on The Fono’s board, Greg is also the Chairman of the Fiji Marist Old Boys Association, the Drodrolagi Health Trust and Fiji Tag Football & Sports.

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Filemoni Panisi

Board Member

Tuvaluan & English

Filemoni has an extensive career in business with a heart for finance management. As well as role in The Fono's board, he is also a Treasurer of Tuvaluan Auckland Community Trust. Filemoni is passionate about supporting children and youth development.

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Te’o Harry Fatu Toleafoa

Board Member

Samoan & English

Harry is an enrolled Barrister and Solicitor of the New Zealand High Court. Harry was elected onto the Māngere-Otahuhu Local Board which has one of the highest concentrations of Pacific peoples in Aotearoa. He also serves on the board of directors at the Oceania Career Academy (OCA).

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John Paterson

Board Member

Māori & English

John has an extensive career in Health, including 28 years developing Māori Health Operational Strategy for Waitemata and Auckland DHBs. He is currently employed with Counties Manukau Health (DHB). In addition to his commitments to The Fono Board, he is a Director of the Oceania Career Academy board and a Board Member of Te Reo Tuatahi Trust Board.

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Neil Woodhams

Board Member

English

Neil is a retired chartered accountant with extensive senior management and governance experience in the finance, banking and primary sectors. In addition to his commitments to The Fono Board, Neil is also President of Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand.

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Leitualaalemalietoa Lynn Pavihi MNZM

Board Member

Niuean & English

Lynn has a 19-year career in teaching and is currently the Associate Principal of Favona School in South Auckland. Lynn is passionate about promoting the Niue language and supporting the local Niue communities in New Zealand.

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Manava Parakoti

Board Member

Cook Island Māori & English

Manava is the Head Teacher at the Cook Islands Early Childhood Education Centre in Mangere, South Auckland. Manava is committed to uplifting the Cook Island community and is often involved in health driven projects. In addition to her commitments to The Fono Board, she is Chair of Te Opunga Ra.

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Dr Ainsleigh Laumatia

Board Member

Samoan & English

Ainsleigh brings a unique blend of clinical expertise, cultural understanding, and community connection to our Board, inspired by her personal experiences and a desire to positively impact the health outcomes of Pacific peoples.

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Dr Siale Foliaki

Board Member

Tongan & English

With over 20 years of experience as a dedicated psychiatrist, 'Alo has driven better mental health outcomes for Pacific communities. His expertise includes Pacific mental health service development and delivery, leadership in mental health initiatives, research-driven culturally responsive care, and culturally informed mental health service design.

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