In this week’s episode, I discuss academic research on the role of the tou‘a - the woman serving kava, and what these studies reveal about women’s experiences inside faikava spaces.

I focus on the work of Hilda A. Port, author of the doctoral thesis How Do Evolving Kava-Related Practices Impact the Role of Tongan Women Living in Aotearoa? Her research highlights the realities faced by tou‘a, including the cultural expectations, the vulnerability in certain kava settings, and how evolving practices have changed the way women are viewed and treated in these environments.

Alongside this academic perspective, I share real stories from Tongan women and men about faikava and tou'a, including my first testimony from Nauru about kava abuse. These testimonies reveal what is truly happening in our communities and why open conversations are needed now more than ever.

This episode is for anyone who wants to understand the truth behind the tou‘a role, beyond cultural tradition and academic debate. It’s time to address what’s really going on.

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