MVPFAFF+: A Melomelo Momentum
With an open mind and heart and hands ready to act and ally, come learn about some of the (his/her)stories, experiences, concerns and aspirations of MVPFAFF+* peoples – all of which constitutes an unstoppable melomelo (brown) momentum. Here, Penni will also share about her doctoral research which explored the life experiences of leitī living in Aotearoa.
*MVPFAFF+: a collectivising term for existing and future Pacific gender and sexuality diverse identities and expressions coined by Phylesha Brown Acton MNZM on behalf of over 50+ Pasifika activists from across the Pacific region.
Presenter blurb
Penni is a leitī of Tonga, by way of: ‘Utungake and Fungamisi in Vava’u, Niutoua and Kolonga in Tongatapu and Niuatoputapu. Inspired by the learnings from long-time MVPFAFF+ and Niue communities leader, Phylesha Brown-Acton MNZM, she sits at the feet of Pacific Rainbow+ greats, living and resting, and their continued and growing legacies of work. Penni is a wellbeing researcher and advocate for Pacific Rainbow+ Peoples. She serves as the Pacific Rainbow+ Peoples Lead at the Ministry for Pacific Peoples. Penni also practices as a Clinical Psychologist focused on supporting the wellbeing aspirations of Pacific Rainbow+ Peoples.