Lealofitaute Vaai (pictured) says creating art saved her life.
After experiencing some health issues two years ago, she says creating artwork became an outlet for her, and part of her healing process.
“It has kept me going to this day,” Lealofitaute says.
Her artistic talent has not gone unnoticed, and at the 2021 Prime Minister’s Pacific Youth Awards, Lealofitaute won the Creative NZ and Massey University Arts and Creativity category.
She also collected $10,000 to fund an approved arts or creativity-related course of study with Massey University at the College of Creative Arts or to put towards an approved arts or creative project.
Of Samoan descent, Lealofitaute grew up in the South Auckland suburb of Manurewa.
“Although I attended Holy Cross Catholic School in Papatoetoe and Baradene College in Remuera, I am #RewaHard through and through.
“Growing up in Manurewa has been a very interesting experience and I am proud to be from South Auckland.”
Her community and first-hand experiences inspire so much of her artwork, she adds.
“My heart and work have always been for the culture and for the community, and this award provides me with an opportunity to drive indigenous based creative expressions of mental health and well-being.”
Looking ahead, Lealofitaute aspires to hold free events in South Auckland where people can create art and talanoa different topics concerning Pasifika mental health experiences, breaking generational cycles, colonisation as a direct link to the abuse received and what steps can we take as Pacific peoples to heal and grow internally, she explains.
“As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child and I also believe it takes a village to heal our Pasifika community and to also normalise talanoa around mental health.
“The normalising process can be done through many different forms and my strength is in the creative arts…this is how I want to utilise my craft.”
Lealofitaute says growing up, her parents instilled values in their household, including service to family, and to the community.
“Winning this award is only a small but significant part of my creative journey and provides an opportunity to serve my community the best way I know how.
“My family have always been very supportive in all aspects of my life however my creative work is a new journey for them to navigate and I am blessed to share this part of me with them as well as this award.
“This award will help change lives and I am grateful to be the recipient sailing this va’a."
Visit HERE for mental health services and wellbeing information.
For more information on the Prime Minister’s Pacific Youth Awards, check out the MPP website.