In the video below, Associate Professor Jacoba Matapo (Auckland University of Technology) introduces the four videos that explore giftedness from Pacific perspectives.

“Toku kāiga, he kānava, he fau e hē uia” ("My community, my heritage, is a gift that is forever treasured").

This profound Tokelau proverb encapsulates a fundamental belief shared across Pacific cultures that individual achievements are deeply rooted in the ‘gifts’ of collective support and wisdom of one’s community. 

In the context of early childhood education, understanding giftedness from a Pacific perspective involves recognising children as divine gifts and vital links in a continuum that bridges the past, present and future. According to Te Whāriki, children are seen as inherently competent, capable, and gifted, irrespective of their age or ability. They carry the legacy of their ancestors and embody the essence of their cultural heritage. 

To address a significant gap in early childhood education resources, we have developed four videos that highlight authentic Pacific knowledge and insights for nurturing giftedness in children aged 0 - 5 years of age. These videos discuss cultural perspectives on gifteness in Lea Faka-Tonga (Tongan), Gagana Sāmoa (Samoan), Te Reo Māori Kūki ‘Airani (Cook Islands Māori) and Gagana Tokelau (Tokelaun):

Giftedness from a Tongan perspective

Giftedness from a Samoan perspective

Giftedness from a Kūki ‘Āirani Māori perspective

Giftedness from a Tokelauan perspective

These videos honour the sacredness of Pacific indigenous knowledge and language, embedded in Pacific values such as love (‘ofa), service (tautua), respect (fakaaloalo) and humility (akatāmanako). Through these culturally responsive resources, we strive to ensure that every Pacific child’s giftedness is recognised and nurtured, paving the way for their holistic development and success. 

Giftedness across Pacific cultures

Giftedness in Pacific cultures is conceived as a sacred gift – koloa, ko e me’a’ofa mei he ‘Otua, meāalofa mai te Atua, meāalofa mai i le Atua, tareni oronga ia mai e te Atua – bestowed through ancestral and spiritual ties. This view emphasises that children are entrusted to us by Atua (God/deity) as their guardians, caregivers, members of aiga (extended family), kainga (home), and fanau (family). It is our duty to treat them with utmost respect and care. This reverence for children aligns with the Pacific belief that nurturing their innate potential is both a privilege and a responsibility. 

Key principles

Talanoa

Talanoa is a traditional Pacific practice that involves an inclusive, participatory and transparent dialogue process. Talanoa has been developed through Pacific research and in this series of videos and resources, this method was essential for engaging with Pacific leaders and kaiako in the early childhood settings, enabling deep and meaningful exploration of cultural knowledge and insights. Through Talanoa, we collaboratively co-constructed meaning and were able to honour the rich, diverse perspectives that inform our understanding of giftedness in Pacific contexts. 

Vā, va’a, vaha 

As part of the practice of Talanoa, naturally the concept of va’a, vā or vaha transcends mere physical space, reflecting the relational, temporal and spiritual dimensions of interaction. This notion helps us appreciate the relational dynamics between kaiako and children, emphasising that education environments should nurture not only intellectual and physical development but also the spiritual and cultural wellbeing of each child. 

Empowering kaiako

Our goal is to empower kaiako to recognise and support the unique gifts and talents – koloa, ko e me’a’ofa mei he ‘Otua, meāalofa mai te Atua, meāalofa mai i le Atua, tareni oronga ia mai e te Atua – of every child from infancy through to early childhood. By understanding and integrating key cultural concepts alongside aiga, kainga, and fanau, kaiako can create learning environments that are culturally responsive and supportive. This approach acknowledges and enhances the mana, gifts and talents of all children.