ABOUT US

Rako Pasefika is an Oceanic collective dedicated to safeguarding and sharing Pacific cultural practices and performative storytelling. The collective emphasizes the importance of our heritage and cultural practices as essential elements of resilience, cultural revival, and empowerment. It focuses on the diverse cultural and creative practices of Indigenous Pacific communities, including those from Rotuma, Tahiti Nui, the Marquesas, Cook Islands, Tonga, Niue, Samoa, and Fiji.

Rako Pasefika has had the honor of sharing its work through our communities throughout the Pacific and at major venues such as the Sydney Opera House, the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco, the historic DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, DC, and GOMA in Brisbane. The collective has also been featured at major international festivals, including the Woodford International Folk Festival, Homeground Festival and Bluesfest. Rako Pasefika’s music significantly contributes to climate advocacy and cultural activism, taking part in important events like the Global Climate Action Summit, COP23, COP24, and the IUCN World Parks Summit. Their debut album won four awards at the 6th FIPRA Music Awards: "Best New Artist," "Best English Song," "International Achievement by APRA," and "Best Song of the Year." Additionally, Phil Dakei of Noisy Oyster Productions received a fifth award for his work on the recording and production of "Mama Hanua."

Rako Pasefika is committed to cultural recovery and highlighting the strength, leadership, and spiritual significance of Oceanic warriors. Their work aims to stimulate cross-cultural dialogue and contribute to the empowerment of Indigenous communities worldwide. Through their storytelling, Rako Pasefika aspires to inspire a new generation of cultural custodians while prioritizing climate advocacy and resilience through our music and dance.