TOKTALK new meeting place for Pacific scholars

A new Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland initiative TOKTALK is helping Pacific scholars come together to share their research.

Established earlier this year by Fofonga for Pacific Research Excellence, director Dr Charmaine ‘Ilaiu Talei says TOKTALK has created a much-needed physical space for Pacific scholars to meet.

The second of the event series was held on 6 August in collaboration with the Faculty of Arts and Education, with academics and postgraduate students sharing their research and ideas using a format of fast-paced seven-minute presentations.

“TOKTALK has been designed to create an informal and energising space especially for Pacific scholars. It’s such a great heart-filling event to see our doctoral researchers shine,” says Dr Talei.

Hosted by Associate Dean Pacific and Associate Professor Dr Caroline Vercoe, the second TOKTALK saw Pacific scholars share research from girl gaming, to ancient methods of growing taro and the embodiment of Siva Sāmoa.

“This is a great event, it brings together academics and postgrad students researching in the Pacific space," says Dr Vercoe. “It’s great for others to learn about the exciting research happening across the faculty.”

Presentations were made by co-head of Māori and Pacific Studies Associate Professor Gordon Nanau, Teuila Hughes, Liam Kokau, Dr Jean M Uasike Allen, Dagmar Dyck, Leah Damm and Dr Vercoe.

Dr Allen talked about her research 'Virtual Voyagers' exploring how Pacific girl gamers experience multiplayer gaming as a space for connection, resilience, and identity – challenging stereotypes and highlighting the positive role gaming plays in their well-being and development.

“I wanted to understand how online gaming contributes to identities, relationships and well-being through Pacific perspectives of Pacific girl gamers.

“I know if we think about the experiences about getting our children off screens and devices… the reality is, gaming is not going away.”

She says the evening was a great opportunity to learn about the research being undertaken at the University.

“This is a great event, we’re so busy that we don’t always get the chance to learn what other research is taking place.”

Doctoral candidate Leah Damm says her qualification in ‘being very nosy’ led to her thesis exploring the digital Vā, specifically on Instagram and what it means to be a Pacific woman in today’s digital age.

Her research challenges the misconception that young people are passive or unaware digital users, instead highlighting their nuanced understanding of online safety, identity and well-being. Damm advocates for a holistic approach to digital engagement, recognising the emotional and cultural significance of online spaces for Pacific communities.

She emphasises that social media is not separate from real life but rather a powerful extension of it, shaping how Pacific youth see themselves and interact with the world around them.

TOKTALK welcomes those interested in Pacific research. More events are planned offering further opportunities to engage with the vibrant and diverse work of Pacific scholars at the University of Auckland.