Vā is the space between, the betweenness, not empty space, not space that separates, but space that relates, that holds separate entities and things together in the Unity-that is All...
Wendt, 1999
Meet Misa Janet
Matautu Falelatai, Lalomanu Aleipata, Alafua, Falese'ela
My parents, the late Leatiatagaloa Puatautogia Asuao Misa Teleiai and my amazing mother Sinfatunua Teleiai migrated to Auckland, New Zealand in the 1960s and as a Samoan diaspora, Aotearoa is not my land of origin, as my parents were born in Samoa, but I stand with faaloalo (respect) to Tangata Whenua of Aotearoa New Zealand, the Indigenous peoples of this land.
My identity and Indigenous knowledge represents strands weaved as to a Fala Lili’i that is intricately woven together for many to stand, to sit, to speak on and a foundation that is cemented deep within the atunu’u and the measina of Samoa. That is my WHY.
I reside in Te Atatu South, West Auckland and am married to Seturo Sidney Livingston Tuitama from the villages of Manono Itai, Matautu Falelatai, Falelima.
Seturo is my rock and greatest support of 30 years of marriage. My measina are my children, Josiah 25yrs and Sylvana 23yrs who have been my day ones, my cheering team and critics, but the biggest encouragement and protectors I have. This would be my biggest achievement being a wife and mother to my own family.
At the vibrant age of 55, I reflected on a journey filled with both mountains and valleys, shaped by 25 years in the corporate world, where I honed my skills, gained expertise, and learned invaluable lessons.
But there came a time when I saw life beyond the high-rise buildings, and I took a leap of faith to start my own business. My first venture - a two-year experience in the clothing industry - taught me resilience. Though I returned to corporate life, in 2014, I felt a deeper calling to leave it behind for good. This pivotal moment led me to discover the power of “Community.”
Over the next seven years, I embraced roles as a school chaplain, earned my Bachelor’s degree, and embarked on a Master’s journey. Today, I stand as the CEO of a not-for-profit organisation and as the founder of Niu Perspective, where I serve as an Indigenous Wellbeing Practitioner.
I'd love to invite you to discover how Niu Perspective can support your journey. Explore offerings by clicking the button below, or get in touch to start a conversation about how I can walk alongside you.
Qualifications
2023 - He Waka Hiringa: Masters of Applied Indigenous Knowledge at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa
2020 - Bachelor of Leadership for Change at Otago Polytechnic at Capable NZ
2020 - ICF Executive & Organisational Coaching Certificate ACSTH Trained at Coaching Pacific
2020/2022 - Accredited School and Sports Chaplain at Chaplaincy NZ and Sports Chaplaincy NZ
2015 - Diploma in Christian Ministries - Chaplaincy at Alphacrucis College
Strengths I Bring to Our Work Together
(As per my Clifton Strengths profile)
Relator
Building close, genuine relationships is at the heart of my work.
Authenticity and transparency are my guiding principles.
Responsibility
I take full ownership of my commitments, honoring my word and actions with unwavering dedication and integrity.
Strategic
I approach each situation with foresight, spotting key patterns and creating pathways forward. My strength lies in navigating challenges and anticipating what’s ahead.
Self-Assurance
Grounded in a strong inner compass, I confidently make decisions and embrace risk. I trust my instincts and stay focused on moving forward.
Intellection
I’m a deep thinker who values introspection and embraces each step of the process—even when the outcome is not yet clear.
