This project is based on the teachings of my childhood upbringing. Growing up surrounded by a pasifika community and aiga, I learnt that our alofa was shown most through acts of service, an action that translates into a method of exchange. From a young age, it was instilled in me to serve and relate to others through generosity, kindness, empathy and alofa. These learnings that I carry with me every day have naturally ingrained into a way of making. My research seeks to highlight the importance of learning and acknowledging our pasts and present histories through enlightening another through these actions and teachings. Through lens-based and installational practices, an invitation is extended to create a collective of shared histories, lived experiences and intergenerational knowledge that will ultimately create a platform to open up a talanoa (conversation) for all to reside in one space – to restore ‘left behind’ dreams of the migrant journey.
