Farewelling Uptempo — Celebrating a Legacy of Pasifika Empowerment

Written By Kitt Isidro

The Uptempo programme closed at the end of last year and we celebrate the incredible journey and lasting impact of the team who have led this work.

Uptempo has been a Pasifika-led innovation platform, powered by The Southern Initiative (TSI) in partnership with The Fono, First Union, and funded by MBIE and the Peter McKenzie Project. Through a family-centred approach in South and West Auckland, the team have supported Pasifika ‘aiga to shape their own economic futures — working closely with employers, government, and industry leaders.

Key Highlights:

  • Co-designing workforce innovations with nearly 400 Pasifika families, helping pave pathways to well-paid, meaningful work

  • Piloting impactful initiatives like the Good Employer Matrix, forging culturally responsive workplaces

  • Launching the first green skills micro-credential in construction alongside Pacific partners

  • Hosting vibrant ‘aiga wānanga and celebration events, bringing together over 50 families as Uptempo closed its two-year cycle

Kitt Isidro
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