The Intergenerational Impact of Diabetes for Pasifika Youth - The unseen costs.

Diabetes affects more than physical health. For many Pacific families, its impact extends across generations, influencing emotional wellbeing, family dynamics, education, and the experiences of children and youth who grow up witnessing loved ones live with chronic illness. Join us for an engaging symposium that will explore the relationship between diabetes and mental distress, with a particular focus on the intergenerational impact on Pasifika youth. Together, we will discuss how health professionals, educators, social workers, community leaders, and families can better recognise and respond to the often-unseen effects of diabetes-related distress. This event will bring together voices from across health, education, and community sectors to share insights, challenge thinking, and inspire action towards more culturally grounded family-centred, community-centred, and youth-centred approaches to wellbeing. We are honoured to announce that our speakers will be: Papali’i Dr Suitafa Debbie Ryan MNZM, is a Samoan primary care physician, Pacific health policy specialist and honorary Fellow of the NZ College of Public Health Medicine. Nicholas Cao, a Samoan-Italian Registered Health Psychologist who currently serves as Clinical Lead for Mental Health and Addiction at Le Va. Nadia Keogh, a Māori podiatrist with more than 25 years of experience dedicated to improving outcomes for people living with diabetes. Ticket price includes a delicious Pasifika buffet dinner and non-alcoholic welcome drink on arrival. NB: A certificate of attendance for this event can be provided for PLD purposes.