The Vaka Pride Programme proudly celebrates and champions the Mana Tiaki values: Peu Maori (our culture), Akono i te Ao Rangi (our environment), Tupuranga Tangata (our community), and Turanga Evangelia (our beliefs). This year’s 28th round specifically focused on groups nurturing the Peu Maori values, continuing the program’s legacy initiated by the Cook Islands Tourism Corporation.
Peu Maori encompasses diverse cultural expressions, including reo Maori, traditional and performing arts, vital for preserving the Cook Islands’ rich heritage. Nominees showcased their community initiatives to the Vaka Pride Committee, with standout organizations like Manava Ora, Te Punanga Reo o Takitumu, and Te Toki Tupuna presenting their unique cultural contributions.
Manava Ora shone a light on traditional storytelling through oral history, dance, and music, offering an immersive cultural experience for youth aged 6-16. Founders Jackie Tuara and Keren Aviu highlighted their approach to holistic well-being via various performing arts, allowing students to engage deeply with their heritage. They have received $4,099 to support resources like ukuleles and a hard drive for documenting cultural education.
Te Punanga Reo o Takitumu, under the guidance of Chiavanni Le’Mon, aims to revitalize the Cook Islands Maori language from a young age. Their full immersion preschool will empower learners from six weeks to three years, fostering intergenerational knowledge transfer. Vaka Pride is supporting this initiative with $4,000, enabling a nurturing environment for children to learn through language, storytelling, and song.
Te Toki Tupuna, driven by Gina Tavioni-Bamber and her team, champions holistic well-being via Cook Islands arts like carving and pareu dyeing. Their community-focused approach promotes cultural exchange and supports local artists. The Vaka Pride Committee has pledged $4,000 to aid in constructing an outdoor shelter to serve as a workspace, enhancing collaboration and creativity.
Collectively, these groups embody the essence of Peu Maori, inspiring the community to cherish the Kia Orana values while fostering sustainable practices. Cook Islands Tourism acknowledges their innovative blend of traditional knowledge and contemporary methods, ensuring the vibrancy of the culture for future generations.
The Vaka Pride Programme celebrates the Mana Tiaki values, spotlighting organizations like Manava Ora, Te Punanga Reo o Takitumu, and Te Toki Tupuna. They nurture cultural identity through arts and language, showcasing how these groups help preserve Cook Islands heritage. This round highlights their initiatives with funding to enhance their community impact and promote intergenerational learning.
The Vaka Pride Programme continues to thrive as a beacon of cultural preservation and community engagement. Through the dedication of groups like Manava Ora, Te Punanga Reo o Takitumu, and Te Toki Tupuna, the spirit of Peu Maori is vibrantly showcased. With the support of the Vaka Pride Committee, these organizations foster sustainable practices, ensuring the rich heritage of the Cook Islands flourishes for future generations.
This article discusses the Vaka Pride Programme’s ongoing dedication to promoting and preserving the cultural heritage of the Cook Islands. It highlights community initiatives that embody the values of Peu Maori, showcasing various organizations devoted to enriching the cultural landscape. The emphasis is on how these groups nurture the next generation’s connection to their heritage through arts, language, and storytelling, reflecting the unique essence of the Cook Islands.
Original Source: www.cookislandsnews.com
