The research team, from left to right: Dr Johanna Thomas-Maude, Mr Patrick Tamaicakai, (Masters student), Dr Sharon McLennan, and Mr Avendra Prakash (PhD Student) and Dr Akisi Ravono,
In August the team (minus Dr Api) convened in Wellington at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington (VUW) for workshops and discussion. During this time, we welcomed Dr Akisi, who joined as a VUW adjunct, and Patrick Tamaicakai, who is starting his Master’s degree. During the two weeks Akisi was in Wellington we were able to work on analysis of the data collected so far, future fieldwork design, and publication plans. Akisi also met with VUW Nursing staff, and Akisi and Avendra inspired VUW post-grad students and staff with presentations and talanoa on Pacific research and our project.
Our students Avendra and Patrick were able to make progress on their research proposals, and we are exited about the research to come. Avendra’s PhD research will explore undergraduate public health graduates in building health system resilience in Fiji, while Patrick’s plans to look at the role of traditional leadership in breaking the culture of silence and stigma surrounding HIV among Itaukei for his Master’s degree. Subscribe (or keep checking in) for updates on this and on project findings as we move into the next phases of the project.
Dr Api Movono joins the team via Zoom for a research discussion.
Dr Akisi inspires VUW postgraduate students about Pacific health research.
A hands-on team dinner – the Fijians teach the Kiwis to make roti and dhal.
Exploring Fijian Health System Resilience 