Coming to the Mat

This year’s Human Rights Day theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” calls for urgent and collective action to address global human rights challenges. In this deeply moving episode of Coming to the Mat, we are honored to welcome Koteka Wenda—storyteller, cultural performer, and spokesperson for the Free West Papua Campaign. This conversation is raw and unfiltered, diving into the heart of Koteka’s journey. As the daughter of Benny Wenda, a leading voice in the West Papuan independence movement, Koteka has lived a life shaped by her people’s struggle against Indonesian colonial rule, systemic human rights violations, and genocide. Her story of displacement and relentless advocacy shines a light on the emotional toll and unyielding courage behind the fight for justice. Koteka’s reflections also reveal the powerful influence of her mother, whose unwavering strength and sacrifices ensured the safety and security of their family during the darkest times. In a heartfelt tribute, Koteka applauds her mother, Maria Wenda, as “a strong West Papuan woman, an incredibly supportive wife to our Bapa, and a real mama bear to us, your children. We love you to Wamena and back.” Her words honor the quiet yet profound resilience of West Papuan women who hold their families together in the face of unimaginable adversity. Now living in exile in the United Kingdom, Koteka carries the hopes of her people while navigating the complexities of advocacy as a young Melanesian woman. Her voice brings an unparalleled authenticity to the themes of freedom and self-determination, echoing the urgency of this year’s Human Rights Day message. Throughout this episode, Koteka opens up about the weight of her father’s legacy, the personal sacrifices of her advocacy journey, and the role of women as transformative agents in movements for liberation. With raw honesty, she recounts the emotional challenges of standing up for an oppressed nation and reflects on the power of resilience and collective action in the face of overwhelming adversity. Join us as we sit down with Koteka in this deeply emotional and eye-opening conversation. Together, we storian—sharing truths, struggles, and aspirations for a world where human rights and freedoms are not just ideals but lived realities. This episode is more than a story of resistance; it’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the urgency of solidarity, and the unyielding hope for freedom. Tune in and be moved by the powerful voice of Koteka Wenda and the message she brings to the world. Music Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JuB9bU5vRt0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faJfu-FJVt0 Connect @: https://www.instagram.com/kolaliwenda/

Episode 21 - One woman's quest to restore the Melanesian Hauskuk to its rightful place in a Modern setting, and deconstructing the Western Kitchen. “But for me, it went more than that. I realize that we need to restore the dignity of indigenous Melanesian Food Culture, or cuisine. Starting with my particular sub ethnic group.I say sub-ethnic group specially because obviously, Vanuatu like PNG has many diverse sub ethnic groups as well too…” Claire AsiIn this episode, we are going to talk to one woman who has made it her mission to work towards Restoring the Melanesian Hauskuk to its rightful place in a Modern setting, and deconstructing the Western Kitchen by unraveling what is Indigenous Melanesian Food, Identity and Globalization. Given that there are many layers to cover with indigenous food, identity and globalization, our guest prefers to the frame the discussion as - “uncovering layers of indigenous food culture and the impacts of globalization – starting with a post-colonial identity.”Unraveling the indigenous consciousness through traditional and progressive food culture. We also discuss within the context of layers that form part of the existentialism of the Melanesian, the Neo-Melanesian is a multi-faceted and multi-contextual identity that is very much post-colonial. Meet Claire Asi - Claire Asi is from the country of Papua New Guinea (abbreviated as PNG), most specifically from the central province and from the Rego District of PNG. She has a background in Political Science and Public Policy from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG ).Sisters & Co. Catering on their facebook page Sisters & Co. Catering https://www.facebook.com/Sisters-Co-Catering-102887541214936/posts/Rigo District, Papua New Guineahttps://www.google.com/maps/place/Rigo,+Papua+New+Guinea/@-9.6595343,147.3351469,9z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x69031deb120e85b1:0x7956f29f3bbc5506!8m2!3d-9.7921909!4d147.825395Music:Rigo Peroveta - Alikuni Youth (Central Province - Papua New Guinea). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUTz6oLJGKAFinal count downhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qAhPz2rbths

20. The Sea Women of Melanesia (SWoM)- Naomi Longa In this episode, we look at the role of Indigenous and Traditional Knowledge, and western science in Ecosystem-Based Adaptations especially when it comes to ​​marine conservation. Things like Human activity such as overfishing, and climate change have been known to cause coral bleaching. Overfishing causes the number of fish to plummet and slowly breakdown the biodiversity if there is no proper ecosystem-based adaptation plans in place to manage our ecosystems. So what can be done about it? Dr. Mere speaks with Naomi Longa, who is a team leader for the Sea Women of Melanesia (SWoM) program based in Papua New Guinea. Hear about the incredible work of the SWoM, a group of Indigenous women who trained to safeguard coral reefs under threat from climate change. The goal is to give women in the South Pacific region the skills to monitor the health of coral reefs, and create, and restore marine protected areas. Last year, they were named Champions of the Earth, the UN's highest environmental award, in the Inspiration and Action category. WELCOME Naomi Longa - joining me on the Mat from the Papua New Guinea Sea Women of Melanesia https://www.seawomen.net/ Champions of the Earth: The Sea Women of Melanesia https://news.un.org/en/story/2021/12/1108282 Sustainable Period Pads for the Sea Women of Melanesia https://hub.givar.com/connect/org/CoralSeaFoundation/campaigns/sustainable-pads-for-sea-women Music: Am Sailing to Blue Ocean by Naio https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzrGL2aNJbA

In this 2 part series on FOOD with our guest, Kirk Huffman, we discuss food in Melanesia. We look at food from two different lenses. Part 1 of the episode, we focused on Food and identity and in the 2nd episode, we look at the Cultural relationship between food and Women and Men of Vanuatu.In this second part about Food and Identity in the Pacific, particularly in the Melanesia region of the Pacific, Kirk Huffman and I talk about the connection and importance in relationships between men and women and food.

In this 2 part series on FOOD with our guest, Kirk Huffman, we discuss food in Melanesia. We look at food from two different lenses. Part 1 of the episode, we focus on Food and identity and in the 2nd episode, we look at the Cultural relationship between food and Women and Men of Vanuatu.In this first part about Food and Identity in the Pacific, particularly in the Melanesia region of the Pacific, Kirk Huffman and I talk about the essentials of Aelan Kakae or Island Food where we dive into the different areas of food associated with the livelihood of people in pertaining to not just diet but also with identity, spiritual food, and food closely associated with women and men in ritual ceremony

As we celebrate the international women’s day on the 8th of March of 2021, MWT would like to celebrate three Pacific Island women for their work as leaders in research. We would like to recognize and highlight the work of these three scholars who have been quietly working in the background as researchers and writers in their own respective fields and their contributions to the field of knowledge as research academics, as well holders and protectors of their indigenious knowledge.In this first episode of the three part series, we will talk to Mrs. Ruth Maetala, co-founder and CEO of Dignity Pasifik, a research firm in the Solomon Islands. Ruth spoke about how coming to terms with her own indigenous identity as a Gwailao woman from the Solomon Islands has given her the passion to look at her work as a researcher differently.

Episode 10 What does it mean to be Indigenous with Kirk Huffman. In this episode on the mat, we discuss what it means to be Indigenous. We will talk with Kirk Huffman, who is a good friend of the podcast and of Melanesian Women Today. He has worked and lived with indigenous people in many parts of the world. Kirk Huffman is both an Anthropologist and Ethnologist who pursued studies in Anthropology, Prehistoric Archaeology, and Ethnology at the universities of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Oxford, and Cambridge in the U.K.We would like to thank the following contributors to make this episode - Vanuatu Cultural Centre for providing music; the United Nations for information in defining Indigenous; the Bougainville Island Bamboo Pipe Band, and to Agnes Binihi and her students at Tebakor College in Port Vila, Vanuatu. Finally, to our two wonderful mums who provided us with profound words of wisdom. To Mrs. Ana Tubuleca Tarere, a vey big Vinaka Vakalevu to you and to Mrs. Florence Korokoro, Tankyu Tumas for providing us your thoughts on being Indigenous.

Show notes:Where is Eratap Village?https://www.google.com/maps/place/Eratap,+Vanuatu/@-17.7887003,168.3685829,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x6e896145023ce9b7:0xf8fba8d1c1488461!8m2!3d-17.7857045!4d168.3636007Vanuatu Mama's English Classhttps://www.melanesianwomentoday.org/mamasenglishclasshttps://www.facebook.com/login.php?next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FVanuatuMamasEnglishClass%2FWhat is Bislama?https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BislamaPeace corps volunteer says reading is power for growthhttps://dailypost.vu/news/peace-corps-volunteer-says-reading-is-power-for-growth/article_47a5caaa-80b5-5ffa-9056-4094748e3e35.html

Traditional economy https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Traditional_economyThe return of shell money: PNG revives old ways after Covid's blow to economy by Kalolaine Fainu in East New Britain, Papua New Guinea https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/aug/22/the-return-of-shell-money-png-revives-old-ways-after-covids-blow-to-economyBarter for Better Fiji https://www.facebook.com/groups/2964591663604507/Robert F. Kennedy's remarks at the University of Kansas https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_F._Kennedy%27s_remarks_at_the_University_of_Kansas#:~:text=It%20measures%20neither%20our%20wit,proud%20that%20we%20are%20Americans.Rah Island, Vanuatu https://www.google.com/maps/place/Ra/@-13.7166658,167.6158237,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x6ef0c3ead7650fb3:0xcf827b6764c03687!8m2!3d-13.7166667!4d167.6333333The Sydney Morning Herald - A palmy balm for the financial crisis by Kirk Huffman https://www.smh.com.au/national/a-palmy-balm-for-the-financial-crisis-20090209-gdtcr4.htmlPig Banks: Imagining the Economy in Vanuatu https://read.dukeupress.edu/books/book/1916/chapter-abstract/190515/Pig-BanksImagining-the-Economy-in-Vanuatu?redirectedFrom=fulltextRe-imagining the economy in Vanuatu - Haidy Geismar https://www.haidygeismar.com/Publications_files/HR%20Ch1%20Regenvanu%20Geismar.pdf

A Child of Oceania, reclaiming our space as Pasifika storytellersWe spoke with Kalo Fainu via Skype from the small island of Nusa in New Ireland in Papua New Guinea. See the links below.New Ireland https://www.google.com/maps/search/new+ireland/@-3.0798852,150.5037622,8z/data=!3m1!4b1Nusa Island Retreat. https://www.nusaislandretreat.com/East New Britain https://www.google.com/maps/place/East+New+Britain+Province,+Papua+New+Guinea/@-5.0766664,150.9871494,9z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x68c3e9222826e74b:0xccf6003af689dbd8!8m2!3d-4.6128943!4d151.8877321Kalo's Blog and videos can be found at https://www.achildofoceania.com/homeWant to see a Kokomo Bird?https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blyth%27s_hornbillSpecial Thank you to:Louise Tari of Rockhampton, QLD, AustraliaMusic provided by:Gideon Kakabin & David Bridie. The Song title: a Bit na Ta from the Album a Bit na TaShukura, Port Vila, Vanuatu

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Buka, Bougainville, Papua New GuineaThis 3 episode series is part of Life Changes, our new normal during COVID-19 era, a series of storytelling that will feature real human stories of experiences from everyday ordinary women from all walks of life from the South Pacific - exploring the theme of change - how COVID-19 has changed our lives and how we respond to the changes in the world around us.

Workplace sexual harassment isn’t just about unwanted advances or inappropriate jokes—it’s about power, control, and the violation of personal boundaries. It’s defined by its impact on the victim, not the intent of the perpetrator. Yet, it remains underreported, especially in environments where power imbalances make it difficult for victims to speak up. The effects are devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and even physical health issues. But there is hope. Around the world, people are raising their voices, demanding change, and holding perpetrators accountable.In this episode, we’ll explore the realities of workplace sexual harassment, its psychological and physical impacts, and the progress being made to combat it. We’ll also provide resources and support for those affected.GUEST: Joining us today is Gabrielle Tor, a passionate advocate for women’s rights, a certified sounselor, and the Health Lead for Melanesian Women Today. With her expertise, we’ll dive deeper into the psychological impact of workplace harassment and explore ways to create safer, more equitable workspaces.Resources for Listeners:If you or someone you know is experiencing workplace sexual harassment, here are some resources and organizations that can help:General Resources:Familiarize yourself with your workplace’s rules and regulations on sexual harassment.Speak with a superior or union representative about your concerns.If you are under immediate threat, contact your local police force.Country-Specific Resources:U.S.A:RAINN: Chat online at rainn.org/ThatsHarassment or call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673).New Zealand:Work Safe New Zealand: Visit worksafe.govt.nz or call 0800 030 040 (24 hours).Australia:Safe Work Australia: Visit safeworkaustralia.gov.au for information.1800RESPECT: Call 1800 737 732 for counselling and support.Solomon Islands:International Women's Development Agency: Visit iwda.org.au.Family Support Centre: Call 26999/20619 or (677) 26999 for legal and support services.Fiji:Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission: Visit fhradc.org.fj or call 330 8577.Vanuatu:Vanuatu Women’s Centre: Call their free line at 161.Papua New Guinea:1-Tok Kaunselin Helpim Lain: Call or text 7150 8000 for counselling and support.Crisis Support Lines:Australia: Lifeline Australia at 13 11 14.New Zealand: Helpline at 1737 or TAUTOKO Crisis Line at 0508 828 865.U.S.A.: National Crisis Line at 988.Vanuatu: Youth Toll-free HELPLINE at 087777 or call 111.Fiji: LifeLine Fiji’s Crisis Helpline at 1543.New Caledonia: SOS écoute at 05 30 30.Papua New Guinea: 1-Tok Kaunselin Helpim Lain at 7150 8000.Workplace sexual harassment is a pervasive issue, but awareness and action can drive change. By supporting survivors, advocating for stronger protections, and fostering safe environments, we can create workplaces where everyone feels respected and valued.If you found this episode helpful, please share it with others and consider reaching out to the resources mentioned. Together, we can break the silence and build a better future.Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll continue to explore critical issues affecting communities worldwide.

This episode introduces a new segment in our Coming to the Mat series, spotlighting climate change and other pressing issues reshaping the Pacific's political landscape, such as deep-sea mining.Recorded last year and released today, this timely discussion underscores the urgency of fostering awareness and dialogue at national and community levels.We are joined by Dr. Tarcisius Kabutaulaka, a renowned political scientist and proud son of the Weather Coast of Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. Dr. Kabutaulaka holds a PhD from the Australian National University and undergraduate and MA degrees from the University of the South Pacific (USP). He joined the Center for Pacific Islands Studies in 2009 and served as its director from 2018 to 2021. Prior to that, he was a Research Fellow at the East-West Center’s Pacific Islands Development Program and taught history and political science at USP.With extensive experience as an academic, editor, and consultant, Dr. Kabutaulaka has worked with governments, NGOs, and international organizations across the Pacific. His work covers topics such as governance, the Solomon Islands civil unrest, regional interventions, the forestry industry, and China's influence in Oceania. He is also a peace negotiator, having played a key role in the 2000 Townsville peace talks following conflicts in Solomon Islands.In this episode, Dr. Kabutaulaka shares his insights on how the pursuit of deep-sea resources is reshaping the region’s geopolitics, governance, and environmental policies.This conversation continues the dialogue from a webinar hosted by Pacific Peoples’ Partnership last year, featuring distinguished speakers:Hon. Ralph Regenvanu, then Minister of Climate Change in Vanuatu, advocating for a moratorium on deep-sea mining.Dr. Catherine Coumans, Research Coordinator at MiningWatch Canada, highlighting the dangers of seabed mining.Dr. Keron Niles, a lecturer at the University of the West Indies, specializing in sustainable policy and green energy transitions.Join us as we revisit this vital discussion, amplifying Pacific voices and fostering collective action to navigate these complex challenges. Music Credit: https://youtu.be/QXE4LsEMCP4?si=9dtbmbG-QQmrNsAo

In this episode of Coming to the Mat, we’re excited to share with you the inspiring journey of Julie Qilabasa Alakalia, a Health Information System professional from the Solomon Islands. Julie, who works with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health, has accomplished so much in her field. But behind the achievements is a story of self-doubt and the courage to step into leadership roles despite battling imposter syndrome.Julie recently represented the Solomon Islands as part of the U.S.-Pacific Rising Leaders Fellowship, an incredible opportunity that took her to Washington, D.C., for three weeks of learning, networking, and personal growth. This fellowship, aimed at empowering mid-career public service professionals from Pacific Island nations, marked her first-ever visit to the U.S. and opened up a world of possibilities for her leadership journey.In this episode of COMING TO THE MAT, Meiva Vuniwai, a counselor and psychotherapist from Fiji and a key member of the MWT Health Team, sits down with Julie to talanoa about her journey. Meiva who has experience in public health as well brings her own unique perspective to the conversation, creating a space where Julie reflects on what it took to step out of her comfort zone and into a global leadership stage.Tune in to hear a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about overcoming self-doubt, embracing challenges, and what it truly means to rise as a leader in the Pacific. This is a story that will resonate with anyone who’s ever doubted their own potential!Music CreditKomuhauru Panpipe Band - Solomon Islands

This episode of Coming to the Mat with Dr. Mere Tari Sovick features Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu's Special Envoy for Climate Change and Environment, a leading advocate for small island nations in the global climate movement. Recorded during Ralph’s transit back to Vanuatu from the Netherlands via Brisbane, the conversation highlights the urgent need for climate action in the Pacific. Ralph and Dr. Mere discuss Vanuatu’s efforts to reshape global climate governance, including the landmark International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion seeking accountability from major greenhouse gas emitters. They reflect on the disappointing outcomes of COP 29, particularly the inadequate climate finance commitments, and analyze how a successful ICJ opinion could clarify state obligations under international law and empower global climate litigation. The discussion also touches on the significant challenges Vanuatu faces, such as recurrent climate disasters, rural-urban migration, and political instability, which hinder development and resilience efforts. Finally, Ralph celebrates the role of Pacific youth, including the Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change, in driving momentum for advocacy, emphasizing the importance of empowering the next generation to lead the charge for a sustainable and just future.Music Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4quEQW3TFA&t=0sMusic Acknowledgement:  Mata Sangvulu from Raga Island - Song about WaterMelanesian Women Today is a non profit organization who relies on donations to do it’s work. Please visit www.melanesianwomentoday.org/donate to make a donation today.

In this episode of COMING TO THE MAT WITH Dr. MERE TARI SOVICK, we explore Vanuatu’s exceptional achievement of securing the number one spot on the Happy Planet Index (HPI) for the second time. This significant milestone, celebrated widely in Vanuatu and internationally, underscores the country's commitment to sustainable well-being and environmental stewardship. We delve into the details of Vanuatu's approach with insights from Jamie Tanguay, Project Advisor for Melanesian Well-being at the Vanuatu Bureau of Statistics. Jamie’s extensive background includes his role as a former Peace Corps Volunteer and his current work focusing on economic development and well-being research in the Pacific region. Join us as we discuss the factors contributing to Vanuatu’s HPI success, the cultural values that shape their environmental practices, and the broader implications for global sustainability efforts. Learn how Vanuatu's journey on the HPI reflects its dedication to preserving its cultural heritage and pristine environment while achieving balanced and sustainable development. For more information: https://vbos.gov.vu/vanuatu-regains-top-spot-happy-planet-index Credit to Vanuatu Kaljoral Sentafor Music by Edgar Hinge for the music provided in this episode.

In this episode of COMING TO THE MAT, hosted by Dr. Mere Tari Sovick, we spotlight Ms. Lydia Garae, a pioneering Ni-Vanuatu student in the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program at Saginaw Valley State University, Michigan. Our podcast celebrates Pasifika women making impactful changes, and Lydia’s journey exemplifies this spirit. Lydia shares her experiences, from tackling language barriers and cultural adjustments to embracing new ideas. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the incredible opportunities that studying abroad can offer. We hope her journey inspires other students from Vanuatu and the Pacific, especially young girls, to pursue their dreams and seize opportunities like the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program supported by the US Government. Tune in to hear Lydia's inspiring story and discover how studying abroad can open doors to new worlds, new friendships, and new possibilities!

Welcome to 'COMING TO THE MAT,' on Pacific Diaspora in the Spotlight, where we dive deep into the lives and stories of Pacific islanders making waves in the diaspora. In today's episode for 2024, we're honored to explore the fascinating world of psychology with Gabrielle Tor, a compassionate student counselor on her journey to a Masters in Applied Clinical Psychology at Pacific University in the State of Oregon in the US. Join us as we uncover her experiences, her unwavering dedication to supporting survivors of domestic violence, and her mission to ensure psychology care embraces diversity." Clinical psychology is all about helping people deal with mental health challenges. To become a clinical psychologist, you usually need a bachelor's degree, and many also go for a doctoral degree (like a Ph.D. or Psy.D.). This path involves practical training, like internships, and getting licensed to practice. Clinical psychologists work in different places, from hospitals to private practices, where they help individuals facing mental health struggles. They may specialize in areas like child psychology or forensic psychology. Essentially, studying clinical psychology means learning psychological theories, research methods, and practical skills to assist those with mental health concerns. She leaves us with the question to ponder on: How can we ensure that psychology care is inclusive and supportive of diverse communities in the US?