28/03/2026
Grateful to the United Pasifika Council of Victoria Team for such a meaningful and beautifully delivered event — a powerful celebration of the leaders, artists, athletes, and changemakers who continue to uplift, inspire, and strengthen our communities.
These moments mean so much because they remind us that behind every strong community are people who quietly give, sacrifice, serve, and carry others — often without ever asking for recognition.
A very special thank you to Rach Akibib (NCA Inc. & UPCOV Secretary) and Iris Cotejo (NCA Inc. Cultural & NCA Inc. UPCOV Rep Member) for your dedication, hard work, and continued service to community. So much of what is done behind the scenes often goes unseen, but it is deeply felt and appreciated. 🙏
And to Annia (NCA Inc.’s President), Manu Tofinga, and family — congratulations on this truly well-deserved recognition.
For over 10 years, Annia has been a constant pillar of strength, support, and service to the Nauru community in Melbourne.
She has shown up time and time again — through the busy seasons, the hard seasons, the joyful moments, and the challenging ones. No matter what life has placed in front of her, she has continued to give her time, her heart, her energy, and her love to community.
That kind of service does not come from obligation.
It comes from love.
It comes from selflessness.
It comes from a heart that genuinely cares for people.
And behind that strength is also the quiet support of family.
Manu her husband has truly been her number one supporter — standing beside her, encouraging her, carrying the load with her, and supporting not only her role as a leader, but also her role as a wife, mother, and woman of service. That kind of support is powerful, and it deserves to be honoured too.
Because when one person serves community so faithfully, it is often the whole family who makes sacrifices along the way.
The UPCOV Pasifika Community Awards night was a reminder that service matters, sacrifice matters, and the people who continue to give so much of themselves to others deserve to be seen, appreciated, and celebrated.
Annia, your years of service, your quiet strength, your love for community, and your unwavering commitment have touched so many lives.
This recognition is more than deserved.
It is a reflection of the impact you have made through simply being there — again and again — for your people.
A beautiful honour for a beautiful soul. 💙💛👏
