Dedicated public servant Luaipouomalo Michael Savelio (pictured) says the current job vacancies connected with the Pacific Aotearoa Community Outreach Omicron Response Fund are an opportunity to positively impact and influence Pacific Aotearoa.
Established to boost Pacific communities to prepare, respond and recover from the social and health impacts of the COVID-19 Omicron variant, the new fund is part of $18 million of government support announced in February 2022.
As the Ministry for Pacific Peoples’ (MPP) National Manager of Community Initiatives, Luaipouomalo oversees the administration of the new fund, processing applications, managing contracts, monitoring and tracking all associated activities.
“Alongside my team we connect and build ongoing relationships, which is critical in the Pacific Aotearoa Community Outreach work,” Luaipouomalo says.
“During the COVID-19 lockdown period I really missed the face-to-face meetings with our communities, and like our communities I was required to learn to adapt to a new way of communicating through digital connections…via Zoom talanoa or over the phone.”
When connecting with people about the fund, Luaipouomalo says he aims to covey criteria and other information as accessible and easy to understand.
“If people go away still unclear or confused then I have not done my job.”
His role allows him to connect with many groups, including church leaders, church ministers, social service providers, leaders from different ethnic community groups, government agencies, non-government organisations and philanthropic organisations, he adds.
“If me or my team has not connected or engaged with your group, then feel free to let me know and we will.”
Luaipouomalo finds his role rewarding, particularly approving funding for groups, and reporting back on successful projects and how they have been delivered with the assistance of the fund, making connections and the gratitude shared by fund recipients.
While applications for the fund are now being accepted, until June 30, MPP is also seeking exceptional people to fill a variety of roles working with Luaipouomalo and the wider fund team.
Pacific Aotearoa Community Outreach vacancies include:
Luaipouomalo says people should apply if you want to be challenged.
“Apply, if your values align with the purpose of the Pacific Aotearoa Community Outreach work.
“Apply, if you have a heart for service, and you love working with and for Pacific people and our Pacific communities.
“If you believe you can make a difference through this piece of work then this role is for you.”
Visit the MPP website for more information about the fund.