Tonga Leitis Association Inc.

Tonga Leitis Association Inc. Welcome to the Tonga Leitis Association page, your hub for updates, activities, and community connection.

We empower and uplift Tonga’s SOGIESC community, promoting inclusion, visibility, and equality for all.

The WorldPride Human Rights Conference held in Amsterdam brought together over 1,000 global LGBTQIA+ activists, policyma...
21/08/2026

The WorldPride Human Rights Conference held in Amsterdam brought together over 1,000 global LGBTQIA+ activists, policymakers, and leaders to establish new strategies across key areas including rights, health, political leadership, and workplace diversity. Coming immediately after a tragic attack at Berlin Pride, the conference became a critical focal point for global solidarity, democratic resistance against rising transphobia, and pushback against the rolling back of q***r rights.

A central outcome of the conference was the presentation of the International Pride Awards, a collaborative initiative by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and ILGA World. Five global "Equality Champions" were honored for their leadership:COC Nederland (The Netherlands): Awarded for Movement Building in the Face of Hostility.Aggie Dennett Harmon (Uganda): Awarded for Celebrating Diverse Lives.Mmapaseka Steve Letsike (South Africa): Recognized as the Emerging Leader.Marcela Dimonty (Chile): Honored for a Lifelong Pursuit of Equality.Dr. Satendra Singh (India): Awarded as an Extraordinary Ally for intersectional disability and q***r advocacy

Globalizing Marriage Equality: Discussions highlighted how legal wins—such as Thailand’s recent marriage equality legislation championed by attending Thai Senator Pornchai Witayalerdpan—serve as blueprints for transforming international state image and expanding rights across Southeast Asia and beyond.

Decoupling Q***r Rights from "Western Agendas": In his opening address, Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten explicitly emphasized that equal rights for q***r communities must be treated universally as a human agenda, not a Western agenda.

Joey Joleen Mataele is a pioneering human rights activist from the Kingdom of Tonga and a prominent speaker at the 2026 WorldPride Human Rights Conference in Amsterdam. For over three decades, she has led efforts to advance the visibility, safety, and legal protection of LGBTQIA+ and gender-diverse communities across the Pacific and the Commonwealth. At the Amsterdam conference, she lent her expertise to panels focused on "Traditional Spirituality & Healing," detailing gender roles and indigenous identities within African, Caribbean, and Pacific traditions.

Representing the Pacific - Joey Joleen Mataele, James Faletau, Uha Fifita and Abdul from Fiji

'I he laumalie 'o e 'aho fakamanatua fakamamani lahi 'a e ngaahi ngaue tokoni ki ha fakatamaki pe tokoni ki ha ni'ihi 'o...
20/08/2026

'I he laumalie 'o e 'aho fakamanatua fakamamani lahi 'a e ngaahi ngaue tokoni ki ha fakatamaki pe tokoni ki ha ni'ihi 'oku nau fiema'u vivili pe koe Humanitarian Day 'a ia na'e hoko ia 'aneafi.

'Oku fiefia 'a e Kautaha Leiti 'o Tonga, ke tuku ange atu ki he kau memipa 'o e Kautaha ni, 'a e faingamalie ke mou lesisita mai ke ma'u atu ha'o naunau tokoni 'o kau kiai 'a e ngaahi tangike vai pea moe kato tokateu ki ha fakatamaki houa 72.

'Oku mahu'inga aupito 'a e ngaahi naunau ni, pea 'oku 'iai 'a e fiefia lahi ke mou lesisita mai ke mou kau 'i he ma'u faingamalie ni.

Fakamanatu atu koe ngaahi tangikee vai 'oku fakangatangata pe ki he ni'ihi 'i TONGATAPU ni na'e te'eki 'iai ha nau faingamalie he ngaahi tokoni tangike vai ki mu'a.

Lesisita mai leva 'i ha'o hu ki he foomu (link) koeni: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfRdDByjDJBBdkXHC5WnU4sGuVBa2zyaDSJ2e5cs0ZyxHh31A/viewform?pli=1

Yesterday, we observed World Humanitarian Day, a day that reminds us of the importance of humanitarian work and supporting vulnerable communities here in Tonga.

As part of the Tonga Leitis Association’s ongoing humanitarian efforts, we are pleased to announce that our Water Tank & 72-Hour Dignity Kit Giveaway is now available exclusively to TLA members.

Please note that water tanks are limited, and priority will be given to TLA members in Tongatapu who did not receive a water tank during our previous distribution. If you would like to be considered, please complete the application form through the link above to be included in the selection process.

Together, through compassion, dignity, and support, we can make a difference in our community.

Malo Aupito.

🌍 World Humanitarian Day 2026 Today, the Tonga Leitis Association joins the world in commemorating World Humanitarian Da...
19/08/2026

🌍 World Humanitarian Day 2026

Today, the Tonga Leitis Association joins the world in commemorating World Humanitarian Day, recognizing the courage, compassion, and dedication of humanitarian workers and volunteers who support people and communities in times of need.

For Tonga, this day reminds us of the importance of standing together, caring for one another, and leaving no one behind, especially during disasters, health emergencies, and other challenges.

As TLA, we remain committed to promoting inclusion, dignity, equality, and compassion, ensuring that everyone in our communities has access to support and opportunities.

Let us continue to serve, support, and care for one another as we build a stronger and more resilient Tonga.

Humanity starts with us.

The Tonga Leitis Association was pleased to participate in the Health and Gender Workshop held today as part of the tran...
19/08/2026

The Tonga Leitis Association was pleased to participate in the Health and Gender Workshop held today as part of the transition towards e-Government through the Digital Health Project.

Through a partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Government of Tonga is implementing a National Health Information System (NHIS) under the Introducing eGovernment through Digital Health Project. The initiative aims to strengthen health data systems and connect them with the broader eGovernment platform, while supporting the Ministry of Health in developing a gender-responsive Digital Health strategy that identifies priority areas for investment and strengthens the exchange of health information.

Gender is an important consideration in understanding the different impacts of disease and ill health. Women and girls, for example, have specific health needs that may differ from those of men and boys, particularly in reproductive, maternal, and neonatal health. Integrating gender considerations into the Digital Health strategy can help ensure that health services, information, disease prevention, and treatment are accessible, relevant, and responsive to the diverse needs of our communities.

The workshop provided an important platform to share updates on the project, discuss the current status of the strategy, and explore proposed social and gender elements for the Digital Health Strategy. The contributions and perspectives of stakeholders are essential in ensuring that the strategy is inclusive, sustainable, gender-responsive, and supportive of a stronger and more resilient Tonga.

The Tonga Leitis Association was happy to be part of this important discussion and to contribute our perspectives towards ensuring that digital health initiatives are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all people in Tonga.

📍 House of Tonga, Fanga

The Tonga Leitis Association was delighted to participate in a Talanoa session with Pacific Australia Skills (PAS), lear...
19/08/2026

The Tonga Leitis Association was delighted to participate in a Talanoa session with Pacific Australia Skills (PAS), learning more about the Australian Government’s Regional Skills and Training Program (2025–2029), which aims to strengthen quality skills development, employment, and livelihood opportunities across the Pacific and Timor-Leste.

The program is guided by the national priorities of each participating country and works closely with governments, training providers, employers, industries, and community partners to strengthen skills systems, promote demand-driven training, and create greater pathways to employment and sustainable livelihoods.

PAS builds on the achievements and strong partnerships established through the Australian Pacific Training Coalition (APTC), which supported skills development across the Pacific from 2007 to 2025. The program focuses on three key outcome areas: strengthening skills systems, training for employment, and strengthening regional and cross-country linkages.

A strong emphasis is also placed on inclusion, accessibility, and climate resilience. By working with partners to address barriers to education, training, and employment, PAS aims to create greater opportunities for youth, women, people with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. It also supports skills development that contributes to resilience, sustainability, and industries adapting to climate change and environmental challenges.

The Talanoa session provided a valuable opportunity to share perspectives, strengthen partnerships, and explore how inclusive skills development can contribute to a more resilient and empowered Pacific.

📍 Pacific Australia Skills Conference Room, Tofoa

Pacific HIV Symposium 2026The Pacific HIV Symposium 2026 is currently taking place at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Res...
18/08/2026

Pacific HIV Symposium 2026

The Pacific HIV Symposium 2026 is currently taking place at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort on Denarau Island, Nadi, Fiji, from Monday 17 to Tuesday 18 August 2026. The symposium is hosted by ASHM Health, with support from regional partners and donors, and brings together health professionals, policymakers, community organizations, clinicians, researchers and advocates from across the Pacific, Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.

Representing the Tonga Leitis Association (TLA) at this important regional gathering are Cruella Tuinukuafe, TLA Office Manager; Manase Vaoahi, TLA Program Manager; and TLA Vice President, Dr. Joseph Takai. They are joined by representatives from the Tonga Ministry of Health and the Tonga Family Health Association, who are also participating in the symposium and contributing to regional discussions on HIV and sexual and reproductive health.

The symposium provides an important platform for Pacific countries to share knowledge, experiences and practical solutions in response to the growing HIV epidemic in the region. Key areas of focus include HIV prevention, testing, treatment and care, sexual and reproductive health, co-infections, community-led responses and strengthening health systems.

For Tonga, participation in events such as this is an opportunity to strengthen partnerships, learn from the experiences of neighbouring Pacific countries, and bring valuable knowledge and best practices back home. It also highlights the importance of continued collaboration between government, civil society, community organisations and health partners in advancing HIV awareness, prevention, testing, treatment, stigma reduction and access to inclusive health services.

The TLA is proud to be part of this regional conversation and to contribute to collective efforts towards a healthier and more inclusive Pacific, where everyone can access the information, support and healthcare they need without stigma or discrimination.

From Tonga to the Pacific, working together to strengthen our response to HIV and protect the health and wellbeing of our communities.

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY! Today, we celebrate International Youth Day and the incredible contribution young people ...
11/08/2026

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY!

Today, we celebrate International Youth Day and the incredible contribution young people make in shaping our communities, our nation, and our world.

The Tonga Leitis Association is proud to mark this special day by sharing a powerful message from one of our young members, Ms. Jenny Tuitupou, highlighting the importance of youth, particularly young people within our SOGIESC community here in Tonga, across the Pacific, and around the world.

"SOGIESCs youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow, we are the voices, advocates, and changemakers of today. When every young person is given the freedom to be seen, heard, and valued, we create a future where no one is left behind.”

Today, let us celebrate and recognize the strength, voices, talents, and leadership of young people. Youth are not simply leaders of the future, they are leaders of today, creating change and inspiring a better tomorrow.

Let us continue to empower, support, protect, and create safe spaces for every young person to participate, lead, and thrive.

Happy International Youth Day from the Tonga Leitis Association!
Youth voices matter. Youth leadership matters. And every young person matters.

10/08/2026

ARI'I 'O E HAU NETBALL TOURNAMENT ‼

📣YES, TONGA!! WE’RE BACK! 🇹🇴

Get ready for another exciting and fun-filled season of the Ari’i ‘o e Hau Netball Tournament 2026! 🏐

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN and will close on 23rd October 2026!

So, gather your team, get your girls together, and REGISTER NOW because you definitely DON’T want to miss out on this year’s Ari’i ‘o e Hau Netball Tournament! All the information you need is available in this video, so make sure you watch, share, and save it!

And don’t forget to FOLLOW US for more updates, announcements, and exciting news about the upcoming tournament!

FE'AUHI NETIPOLO ARI'I 'O E HAU 2026 ‼'Io kuo vela mafana 'a e Kautaha Leiti 'a Tonga, 'i he fengaue'aki fakataha pea mo...
10/08/2026

FE'AUHI NETIPOLO ARI'I 'O E HAU 2026 ‼

'Io kuo vela mafana 'a e Kautaha Leiti 'a Tonga, 'i he fengaue'aki fakataha pea moe Pule'anga 'o Nu'usila, ke fakahoko 'a e fe'auhi Netipolo Ari'i 'o e Hau ki he ta'u 2026. Kuo fakaataa atu ai 'a e lesisita ki homou ngaahi timi mei he VAHENGA 'a e Open Men & Senior Girls pea ataa ki he Under 21 Mixed & Under 14 Girls ke lesisita mai 'a e ngaahi timi fakakalapu ke mou lava mai pe ki he 'Ofisi 'a e TLA 'i he Levolo 3 'a e Tali'eva Building 'i loto Nuku'alofa pe ko ho'o fetu'utaki mai ki he 28806.

Ko 'etau lesisita 'oku $150 ki he Open Men & Senior Girls, tuku kehe ange kapau 'oku tokolahi ho'o timi 'oku nau kau mai ki he fe'auhi, pea 'e fakaataa atu kemou lesisita $100. 'Oku pa'anga 80 leva 'a e lesisita ki he U21 Mixed & U14 Girls, pea kapau 'oku tokolahi ho timi 'oku nau kau ki he fe'auhi pea 'e holo hifo ia 'o $50 'a ho'o lesisita.

Kau mai leva, lesisita telia na ke tomui. 'E tapuni 'a e lesisita he 'aho Falaite 23 'Okatopa 2026. Vave mai leva, ketau poupou aipe ki he fe'auhi Ari'i 'o e Hau 2026 pea mo hono ngaahi pale ta katoa.

And we're back with our activities! ❤️Join us this Thursday for a FREE HIV Screening at Feleti ʻUhatafe's residence in K...
04/08/2026

And we're back with our activities! ❤️

Join us this Thursday for a FREE HIV Screening at Feleti ʻUhatafe's residence in Kolonga.

Knowing your HIV status is an important step towards protecting your health and the health of those you care about. Our friendly team, together with our Lab Officer, will be on-site from 6:30 PM to provide confidential and professional HIV screening services.

We warmly invite everyone to stop by, get tested, and be part of this important community initiative. Your health matters, and together we can promote a healthier and stronger Tonga.

📍 Venue: Feleti ʻUhatafe's Residence, Kolonga
🕡 Time: 6:30 PM
💙 Cost: FREE

We look forward to seeing you there!

Address

Level 3/Tali'eva Building, Taufa'ahau Road, Nuku'alofa Central, Tongatapu-Tonga
Nuku`alofa

Opening Hours

Monday 08:30 - 16:30
Tuesday 08:30 - 16:30
Wednesday 08:30 - 16:30
Thursday 08:30 - 16:30
Friday 08:30 - 16:30

Telephone

+67628806

Website

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