New Face in the Fale

Edward joins us as the new Tala Pasifika Programme Manager.

Edward brings with him a strong passion for a Smokefree New Zealand. For the past five years Edward has been working as a cessation specialist at Pacific Quit Smoking Service with the Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS). Prior to Pacific Quit, Edward was with the AIDS Foundation for 12 years working in a variety of roles, including convening national conferences and as a senior health promoter, with work right across the Pacific region.

Edward is of Samoan descent and carries the Samoan Chieftain name – Lealailepule. The name Lealailepule comes from the saying ‘Le ala i le pule o le tautua’ which translates to ‘The path to leadership is through service’. This is an apt sentiment as Edward is passionate to serve his people by improving their health and wellbeing.

In the next Pacific Heart to Heart newsletter, Edward will introduce you to Tala Pasifika’s #Kick Butt project. Over the last 4 months, the #Kick Butt project team have been working with 12 Pacific people who want to become Smokefree. The participants would be grateful for your support. To follow and encourage them on their journey, go to the #Kick Butt Facebook page.

–