The annual Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) ball has raised $180,000 towards the Pacific Education Fund. The PMA annual Charity Ball was held at the Cordis Hotel in Auckland, bringing together 500 guests from around the country.
Established in 2018, the Education Fund provides scholarships for aspiring Pacific scholars in secondary and tertiary education pursuing careers in health, medicine, and nursing.
PMA Chief Executive Officer Debbie Sorenson says, “these scholarships are an investment in the future generation, highlighting the importance of our ongoing commitment to support them to the fullest extent possible.”
Ms Sorensen acknowledged 2022 recipient of the Papa’ali’i Dr Semisi Ma’ia’i University of Otago Scholarship, Tatila Helu, and her family, after guests heard the inspirational story of resilience that drove Ms Helu to pursue a career in medicine.
Concluding the event, Sir Collin Tukuitonga, PMA Group Board Director, addressed the topic of diversity in the healthcare workforce and paid tribute to those who have paved the way for Pacific people.
“The expansion of diversity in the healthcare workforce is truly encouraging. Our community has overcome significant challenges to reach their current positions.”
The success of the Annual Charity Ball highlights PMA’s commitment to fostering educational opportunities and to strengthen the Pacific healthcare workforce.
