With more than 650 attendees and over 40 exhibitors, this year’s Pasefika Career Expo brought together families, employers, young people and community leaders for an evening that truly reflected the strength and spirit of our Pasefika communities. From the moment the doors opened, the venue came alive with colour, movement and warm conversation. What started as a simple idea has grown into a meaningful gathering where culture and opportunity sit side by side, creating a space where people feel welcomed, informed and inspired.
A Cultural Opening That Brought Everyone Together
The event began with a series of thoughtful welcomes that set the tone for the night. MCs Joziah and Jess, two impressive young leaders from our Youth Consultative Committee (YCC), brought confidence, joy and cultural pride to the stage. Senior Pastor James Bryce opened the evening with a grounding prayer, followed by Shauna Goss (Opendoor) who delivered the Acknowledgement to Country with deep respect and reflection. CEO Graham also shared a warm message on behalf of Opendoor, highlighting the importance of community connection and opportunity.
A particularly moving moment came from local MP Anasina Gray-Barberio. She shared her story of growing up in Broadmeadows, speaking honestly about the challenges she faced and the lack of opportunities available to young people at the time. She encouraged the youth in the room to take every chance that comes their way and reminded employers of their vital role in creating real pathways. Her message landed strongly with everyone present.
Performances That Filled the Room With Pride
Throughout the night, cultural performances added vibrancy and heart to the Expo. Groups representing Tuvalu, Kiribati, the Cook Islands, and local secondary schools filled the venue with drumming, dance and the unmistakable spirit of the Pacific. Each performance received a special acknowledgement from Fao and the YCC youth team, who honoured the groups for sharing their culture so generously. The performances were more than entertainment. They created a sense of belonging, connection and celebration that was felt by everyone.
Inspiring Guests and Community Champions
The evening also welcomed guests who brought encouragement and insight to young people exploring their next steps. Elena, Melbourne Storm’s Pasefika representative, spoke about confidence, discipline and embracing new opportunities. Former NRL player Young Tonumaipea was a major highlight, taking photos, signing autographs and engaging with families throughout the night. Now supporting young talent through the Victoria Rugby League Academy, Young’s presence brought excitement and genuine inspiration to the event.
A Food Village That Became a Night Market
Outside, the Expo transformed into a lively food village that felt like a true Pacific night market. Music played, families gathered, and long lines formed at every stall. Food vendors showcased the entrepreneurial skill within the Pasefika community: Tausami Time warmed crowds with traditional drinks and freshly made panikeke, Lemon Shake It offered their now-famous lemonade fusions, Mika’s Tacos kept the night buzzing with flavour, Bowlandsip delighted families with desserts, and Mr Fresh served classic favourites that kept everyone fuelled. The food village created a space where people lingered, talked and connected long after the indoor program ended.
Pathways, Conversations and Lasting Impact
More than 40 employers and services spent the evening engaging with attendees, guiding young people through study options, job opportunities and training pathways. Cherry from Hume Youth Services shared a moment that captured the essence of the night: watching young Pasifika boys high-fiving an Australian Federal Police Officer, smiling and connecting with trust. It was a snapshot of exactly what this Expo aims to create. Real engagement. Real connection. Real opportunity.
Acknowledging the People Behind the Event
Events like this rely on many hands, and this one was no exception. Community volunteers led by Martina Aunua shaped the experience from start to finish, welcoming attendees, supporting stallholders, guiding families and ensuring the night ran seamlessly. The YCC youth group stood out for their leadership, their pride and their ongoing commitment to their community. Opendoor staff from Training, Allied Health, Youth and Leadership all contributed to the event’s success with care, dedication and a shared sense of purpose. Their presence is what turned planning into impact.
A Night That Will Stay With Many
This year’s Pasefika Career Expo brought people together in a way that went beyond information and employment pathways. It created a space where culture was honoured, young people felt seen and supported, and families gathered to celebrate who they are and what is possible. Even after closing time, families stayed, conversations continued and the energy carried through the night.
As people left, one question kept coming up: “When is the next one?”
We look forward to returning next year, building on everything this community has created together and continuing to open doors for our Pasefika families, young people and future leaders.
