Meet the team
Director
Helen Varney
Introducing Helen Varney: Revolutionizing Pacific Education for a Brighter Future
Celebrate the exceptional leadership of Helen Varney, Director of Tautai o le Moana – Wayfinders of the Ocean. Recognized with the prestigious MNZM in 2021, Helen's passion for Pacific Education is unmatched.
With 14 years of experience as a Primary School Principal and an accredited leadership facilitator, Helen engages Principals in a transformative growth journey. Through deep learning, mentoring, coaching, and collaboration, she empowers educators to improve outcomes for Pacific Learners.
Helen's commitment extends beyond her role as Director. She envisions an education system where cultural, linguistic, academic, and social strengths are recognized and strengthened for all learners in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Based in Auckland, Helen Varney is a driving force in the field of Pacific Education. Join her in revolutionizing education, creating a brighter future for learners. Together, we can transform lives through quality education.
Facilitator
Karl Vasau
Karl Anthony Vasau is a NZ born Pacific Islander of Niuean, Samoan, Tongan and European descent. He and his partner, Geneva, are the proud parents of a 6 year old son, Karl Jnr.
Karl has been in education for 25 years and started his teaching in 1998. He has been a principal for 16 years in both the State and Catholic School systems and is currently on leave from principalship at Rowandale School. He recently completed his Masters of Contemporary Education (MCEd) through Unitec and The Mind Lab.
As the facilitator of Tautai o Le Moana I engage principals in growth conversations through a Pasifika lens. Karl is a foundation member of the New Zealand Pasifika Principals’ Association (NZPPA), the umbrella group from which Tautai o Le Moana has grown.
He is a firm believer in relationships based learning and parents as first teachers and advocates for quality teaching that caters for the unique needs of 21st Century learners. Karl believes that the BEST teacher for Maori and Pasifika children is the "BEST teacher" who understands their own identity and culture (special conditions apply).
Based in the Auckland region.
Facilitator
Geoff Siave
Introducing Geoff Si'ave: Empowering Pasifika Brilliance
Witness the inspiring vision of Geoff Si'ave, an unstoppable leader with a thrilling fusion of Samoan and German heritage. With over 30 years of school leadership experience, Geoff is determined to bridge the cultural gap and unleash the boundless potential of Pasifika
learners.
As a founding member of the New Zealand Pasifika Principals' Association, Geoff ignites a cultural revolution, empowering school leaders and staff. In his role as Tautai o Le Moana's dynamic facilitator, he sparks electrifying conversations, celebrating the vibrant richness and unparalleled brilliance of Pasifika culture.
Based in Christchurch, Geoff Si'ave is a transformative force, redefining education. Join him on an exhilarating journey to empower Pasifika excellence, creating a future where dreams become reality. Prepare to be inspired on this awe-inspiring adventure!
Facilitator
Sepora Mauigoa
Introducing Sepora Mauigoa: Igniting Educational Empowerment
Prepare to be inspired by Sepora Mauigoa, a passionate Samoan educator on a mission to transform education. With deep roots in Samatau, Sato'alepai, Lalomanu, and Vaigaga, Sepora is dedicated to fostering excellence.
As a facilitator for Tautai o le Moana, Sepora brings over 30 years of valuable experience. Leading Glendene School in West Auckland, she combines her expertise with a BA, Graduate Diploma of Tessol, and Masters of Educational Leadership.
Sepora's leadership extends beyond her school as a champion for Pasifika excellence in the New Zealand Pasifika Principals Association. Guided by the values of fa'amaoni, fa'amalosi, fealofani, and alofa, she empowers educators through powerful growth conversations.
Based in vibrant Auckland, Sepora Mauigoa is a beacon of educational empowerment. Join her on an exhilarating journey as she unlocks the full potential of education, creating a future where brilliance and achievement know no boundaries. Get ready to be ignited!
Facilitator
Sose Annandale
Introducing Sose: Sparking Educational Transformation
Get ready to be inspired by Sose, an extraordinary force in education. With a vibrant blend of Samoan, Tongan, and Scottish heritage, she brings a unique and dynamic perspective to the field.
As the principal of Russell School in Porirua for over 35 years, Sose has built a collaborative culture that uplifts children and families. Additionally, as a Tautai o le Moana facilitator, she ignites powerful growth conversations through a Pasifika lens, embracing diversity and transformation.
Sose's passion lies in the transformative power of community involvement, harnessing the collective strength of volunteers and organizations.
Based in Wellington, Sose is a trailblazer, revolutionizing education. Join her on an exhilarating journey as she sparks educational transformation, paving the way for a brighter future. Prepare to be inspired!
Facilitator
Falefatu Enari
Introducing Ala'imalo Falefatu Enari: Lau Atamai - Your Full Brilliance
Ala'imalo Falefatu Enari, a visionary leader from the vibrant villages of Vaiala and Lepa in Samoa. As a humble matai of the Patu and Fuata clan of Vaimauga, Ala’imalo’s cultural and lived experiences shine through his transformative work.
Ala’imalo’s cultural lens is forever present in the work of the Design Team and Advisory Board for the Tautai o le Moana Trust.
Ala'imalo’s trailblazing work in educational innovation is highlighted through the establishment (alongside his wife Parehuia) of the first Polynesian-centric secondary school within New Zealand's education system. Under the governance of Sir Michael Jones and The Pacific Peoples Trust.
Ala'imalo's passion lies in unleashing the full brilliance of each learner through an holistic model that captures the essence of the FaleFono Health model developed by Fuimaono Karl Endermen. Consiousizing AI, (Ancestral Intelligence) within the system of education in which our Pacific families encounter. This model of education acknowledges Atua, Maulī and Mana.
Soifua manuia
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Facilitator
Jerry Leaupepe
Introducing Jerry Leaupepe, a seasoned professional with a rich background in commerce, entrepreneurship, and innovation, now making waves at Tautai o le Moana.
Jerry's unique blend of industry experience and educational leadership is revolutionizing the way we approach education. He has seamlessly integrated his business acumen into the educational sphere, fostering an environment that encourages entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking among students. But Jerry's vision extends beyond the classroom. He is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of school leaders, leveraging his wealth of experience to provide them with the tools and insights they need to succeed. Jerry's approach is not just about teaching; it's about inspiring, empowering, and leading. At Tautai o le Moana, Jerry is more than a team member - he's a mentor, a guide, and a catalyst for change. This is Jerry Leaupepe - a leader committed to shaping the future of education, one leader at a time.
Marketing Manager / Administrator
Lito Bernard-Kauhega
Introducing Lito: Unleashing Marketing Brilliance with a Pasifika Perspective
Prepare to be captivated by Lito, a dynamic marketing powerhouse infusing a fresh perspective into today's marketing and social media landscape. With a vibrant blend of Samoan and Niuean heritage, she brings a unique Pasifika lens to her work.
As a newly graduated business professional, Lito joined the Tautai team in 2022, driven by her deep understanding of the transformative power of education. Growing up with a principal mother, she witnessed the profound impact of learning firsthand.
As the marketing manager of Tautai o le Moana, Lito harnesses her expertise to spearhead all marketing aspects. With her creativity and business acumen, she shares a fresh perspective and exceptional marketing skills with the team, integrating Pasifika culture and values.
Based in vibrant Auckland, Lito ignites marketing brilliance. Join her on an exhilarating journey as she combines innovation, cultural finesse, and cutting-edge strategies. Brace yourself for a captivating fusion of creativity and a Pasifika perspective that will inspire and transform.