Our Mission & Vision

United under the banner of Matavai, people from all walks of life share their stories and culture in a constructive, safe and nurturing space. Matavai promotes the teaching of positive fundamental aspects of Pacific culture through dance, music, language and creative arts. Both the staff and student community of Matavai work towards creating healthy, spiritual connections that transcends the physical barriers of ocean divides between our islands and emotional divides due to historic oppression and displacement. Re-connecting the Australian-Pacific community with their history and ancestors is a key goal of Matavai, which is achieved through the passing down of ancient traditions and art forms.

In the words of Teresa Teaiwa, “you can’t paint the Pacific with just one brush stroke”; that is why Matavai teaches each nation’s cultural art as its own respected discipline but under the holistic notion of a united Oceania. As a community, Matavai encourages the discovery of one’s culture as being linked with one’s discovery of self and healthy overall development.

That is why the purpose of Matavai exceeds cultural performance and entertainment. Instead, Matavai extends itself to be an active community center promoting cultural pride, cultural inclusion and multicultural values. Learn More