Episode 5 - Tackling Tall Poppy Syndrome in the Pacific
In this episode, I open up about the real challenges I’ve faced building Siuhuu, a fully operational e-commerce platform for the Pacific, and how Tall Poppy Syndrome is blocking the growth our region desperately needs.From constant messages asking to “collaborate” while quietly trying to copy the platform, to seeing funding and energy wasted on reinventing what already exists, I share what it’s really like to build something that challenges the status quo in the Pacific. We talk about why it’s often our own people holding us back, how competition at the lowest level keeps us poor, and why we need to focus on collaboration, payment systems, and logistics instead of duplicating what’s already working.And because I don’t want you to get stuck in negativity, I end this episode with practical guidance on how to create your vision board, so you stay focused on building your purpose and don’t get distracted by people who don’t see your vision.If you care about seeing the Pacific move forward, this one’s for you.You can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment
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Episode 4 - How to Break the Cycle
Is faith alone enough to truly change us? In this episode, we dive deep into a topic often considered taboo in our Pacific communities: the connection between faith, hidden wounds, and true healing. Growing up in the church, many of us were taught that faith and prayer alone would change us - but why do cycles of hurt, anger, and generational trauma still continue?We explore why faith and inner work must go together, how unhealed wounds affect the way we treat ourselves and our loved ones, and why breaking these cycles is crucial for our families and future generations. Drawing from biblical examples, personal stories, and insights from psychology, this episode will challenge you to reflect on your journey and encourage you to take the steps needed for true transformation.Listen until the end, reflect deeply, and decide for yourself. It’s time to break the cycle and become who God created you to be.You can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment
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Episode 3 - How to Build Mental Toughness
In this episode, I dive deep into what it really takes to build mental toughness - especially as a Pacific Islander navigating the pressures of life, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. I share stories from my own journey, lessons from books like Think and Grow Rich and The Secret, and the mindset shifts that helped me overcome self-doubt, cultural expectations, and emotional challenges. If you’ve ever struggled with negative thoughts, criticism, or feeling like you're not enough - this episode is for you.Let’s build the resilience you need to rise.You can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment
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Episode 2 - How I Changed My Mindset
In this episode, I share how I transformed my mindset - from self-doubt and pressure to self-belief and purpose. I talk about the principles I applied, the steps I took, and the books that helped me grow, including Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. I also reflect on how these changes challenged cultural expectations and helped me start healing and building confidence. I hope this episode encourages you to work on yourself, believe in your vision, and take the first step toward a better you.You can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment
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Episode 1 – Humble Beginnings
In this first episode, I open up about my childhood, the struggles I’ve faced, and the journey that led me to become an entrepreneur. I share the real story behind why I started this podcast - to inspire, uplift, and empower Pacific Islanders to believe in their dreams, take action, and create change. This is where it all begins.You can watch the video podcast on https://www.youtube.com/@pacificempowerment
Pacific Empowerment Podcast was founded by a Tongan woman entrepreneur, Akanesi Kaufusi, to uplift and inspire Pacific Island people to take bold action, chase their dreams, and dream as big as they dare. This podcast challenges the limitations of traditional thinking and cultural expectations that often hold our people back. It’s a space to break free from fear, take risks, and rewrite what’s possible - no matter your background or environment. Your situation doesn’t define you. Your vision does.
New Zealand