COMING TO THE MAT is a production of Melanesian Women Today, an organization aimed at telling the stories of courageous,ordinary Pacific Island women from all across the South Pacific (Melanesia, Polynesia & Micronesia and around the globe).
Reading the feed…
In Episode 42 of Coming to the Mat, Dr. Méré Tari Sovick joins Indigenous cultural researcher and public historian Adam Keawe Manalo-Camp to explore the shared roots of Oceania through the story of kava ('awa). Together, they trace kava’s journey from its Melanesian origins into a sacred Polynesian "canoe plant," highlighting the linguistic, cultural, and ancestral bonds that unite Pacific communities across the region.
In this profound episode, host Mere sits down with renowned anthropologist Kirk Huffman to explore the deep cultural and historical meaning behind the name Vanuatu. As the nation approaches its 46th Independence Day, they discuss how shedding the colonial name "New Hebrides" was a vital act of reclaiming indigenous sovereignty. Through a relaxed yet deep storian (traditional conversation), they unpack how ancient, cyclone-proof architectural marvels and ancestral climate wisdom hold the ultimate blueprint for survival. In an era of accelerating climate change, this conversation highlights how
Workplace sexual harassment isn’t just about unwanted advances or inappropriate jokes—it’s about power, control, and the violation of personal boundaries. It’s defined by its impact on the victim, not the intent of the perpetrator. Yet, it remains underreported, especially in environments where power imbalances make it difficult for victims to speak up. The effects are devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and even physical health issues. But there is hope. Around the world, people are raising their voices, demanding change, and holding perpetrators accountable. In this episode, we’ll e
This episode introduces a new segment in our Coming to the Mat series, spotlighting climate change and other pressing issues reshaping the Pacific's political landscape, such as deep-sea mining. Recorded last year and released today, this timely discussion underscores the urgency of fostering awareness and dialogue at national and community levels. We are joined by Dr. Tarcisius Kabutaulaka, a renowned political scientist and proud son of the Weather Coast of Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. Dr. Kabutaulaka holds a PhD from the Australian National University and undergraduate and MA degrees
This year’s Human Rights Day theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” calls for urgent and collective action to address global human rights challenges. In this deeply moving episode of Coming to the Mat, we are honored to welcome Koteka Wenda—storyteller, cultural performer, and spokesperson for the Free West Papua Campaign. This conversation is raw and unfiltered, diving into the heart of Koteka’s journey. As the daughter of Benny Wenda, a leading voice in the West Papuan independence movement, Koteka has lived a life shaped by her people’s struggle against Indonesian colonial rule, system
In this episode of Coming to the Mat, we’re excited to share with you the inspiring journey of Julie Qilabasa Alakalia, a Health Information System professional from the Solomon Islands. Julie, who works with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health, has accomplished so much in her field. But behind the achievements is a story of self-doubt and the courage to step into leadership roles despite battling imposter syndrome. Julie recently represented the Solomon Islands as part of the U.S.-Pacific Rising Leaders Fellowship, an incredible opportunity that took her to Washingt
This episode of Coming to the Mat with Dr. Mere Tari Sovick features Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu's Special Envoy for Climate Change and Environment, a leading advocate for small island nations in the global climate movement. Recorded during Ralph’s transit back to Vanuatu from the Netherlands via Brisbane, the conversation highlights the urgent need for climate action in the Pacific. Ralph and Dr. Mere discuss Vanuatu’s efforts to reshape global climate governance, including the landmark International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion seeking accountability from major greenhouse gas emitter
In this episode of COMING TO THE MAT WITH Dr. MERE TARI SOVICK, we explore Vanuatu’s exceptional achievement of securing the number one spot on the Happy Planet Index (HPI) for the second time. This significant milestone, celebrated widely in Vanuatu and internationally, underscores the country's commitment to sustainable well-being and environmental stewardship. We delve into the details of Vanuatu's approach with insights from Jamie Tanguay, Project Advisor for Melanesian Well-being at the Vanuatu Bureau of Statistics. Jamie’s extensive background includes his role as a former Peace Corps Vo
In this episode of COMING TO THE MAT, hosted by Dr. Mere Tari Sovick, we spotlight Ms. Lydia Garae, a pioneering Ni-Vanuatu student in the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program at Saginaw Valley State University, Michigan. Our podcast celebrates Pasifika women making impactful changes, and Lydia’s journey exemplifies this spirit. Lydia shares her experiences, from tackling language barriers and cultural adjustments to embracing new ideas. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the incredible opportunities that studying abroad can offer. We hope her journey inspir
Welcome to 'COMING TO THE MAT,' on Pacific Diaspora in the Spotlight, where we dive deep into the lives and stories of Pacific islanders making waves in the diaspora. In today's episode for 2024, we're honored to explore the fascinating world of psychology with Gabrielle Tor, a compassionate student counselor on her journey to a Masters in Applied Clinical Psychology at Pacific University in the State of Oregon in the US. Join us as we uncover her experiences, her unwavering dedication to supporting survivors of domestic violence, and her mission to ensure psychology care embraces diversity."
In this episode of "COMING TO THE MAT '' titled "Breaking Barriers: The Journey of Malakai Obed," host Dr. Mere Tari Sovick puts the Pacific diaspora in the spotlight. She shares the incredible story of Malakai Obed, a young man living in Utah, USA, with roots in the island of Paama, Vanuatu. Malakai has made history as the first ni-Vanuatu to serve in the United States Marine Corps. Dr. Sovick delves into Malakai's inspiring journey, highlighting his unique experiences as a Marine and the significant impact of Pacific Islanders in their new homes and places of origin. This episode celebrates
Welcome to another captivating episode of "Coming to the Mat" with your host, Dr. Mere Tari Sovick! In this episode, we have the honor of welcoming Ralph Regenvanu, a prominent advocate from Vanuatu, as our special guest. Ralph is a remarkable individual with diverse talents and passions, transcending the realm of politics through his roles as an esteemed artist and anthropologist. His unwavering advocacy for cultural preservation has earned him a global platform, where he actively shapes discussions on diversity. Ralph's journey has been shaped by a deep understanding of the challenges faced
In the final episode of our three-part podcast series, we discuss the Republic of Vanuatu's pivotal role in leading a coalition of countries seeking an Advisory Opinion on climate change from the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Our guests, Mr. Malcolm Dalesa and His Excellency Mr. Odo Tevi, both instrumental in the campaign's success, provide valuable insights into the initiative's strategy and execution. Vanuatu, an island archipelago in the South Pacific, faces the highest disaster risk globally due to climate change, as confirmed by the 2021 UN University World Risk Index and the Inst
In the second episode, we hear from Solomon Yeo, who is the campaign director of Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change. Yeo is from the Solomon Islands and his concern for the environment and inequality originates from the devastating effects of climate change that he witnessed firsthand in his home country. He recognizes the pressing need to take action and has dedicated himself to advocating for climate justice. Solomon shares how the organization he co-founded, Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change, has a youth-centric approach, recognizing the crucial role that young pe
The Coming to the Mat podcast series is a three-part collection of episodes that follows the journey of Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change. The series aims to highlight the inspiring stories of young people who are taking action to combat the devastating effects of climate change on their island communities. The series explores how these students, who come from 8 different Pacific Island countries, have banded together to fight for their future. Through personal interviews, the podcast delves into the individual experiences of the students and the unique ways in which they, colle
An interview with MWT's representative in Vanuatu, Joana Bule about her experience having suffered through two category 4 cyclones in 2 days in Port Vila, Vanuatu.
Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change: Advocating for Climate Justice and Human Rights - Solomon Yeo (campaign director) Solomon Yeo, a law student from the Solomon Islands, is the campaign director of Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change. His passion for addressing climate change and inequality stems from the devastating effects of climate change that he witnessed firsthand in his home country. He recognized the urgent need to take action and dedicated himself to advocating for climate justice. As one of the founding members of Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Cha
Welcome to the Coming to the Mat podcast where we celebrate the stories, history, and perspectives of remarkable Pacific Island women. Each episode is an opportunity to explore new topics that highlight the rich cultural heritage of our Pacific Island nations, from Culture and Traditions to Health and Wellness, Economy and Business, and more. Join me, Dr. Mere Tari Sovick, as we embark on a journey of discovery and inspiration. Today, we delve into the significant topic of repatriation, specifically the repatriation of human remains from the Pacific region that were stored in German collection
Today, we are going to talk about what some like to refer to as the drink of the Gods or the gift of the Pacific to the world and of course by that, I mean KAVA. A plant of the Pacific that has been around for thousands of years and is of traditional significance to many of the peoples of the Pacific Islands. This is a 2 part episode - In this episode - I will take a dive into Kava from the eye of an anthropologist, with my good friend Mr. Kirk Huffman where he will reveal how he got to drink kava for the first time and some of the fascinating facts about kava. Joining him is my husband - Jaso
Episode 23 In this episode, we talk to Marylou Mahe who is the designer behind the MWT Facebook cover and the COMING TO THE MAT podcast. Ms. Mahe is an indigenous Kanak woman from Houaïlou in the Kanak country of Ajë-Arhö in New Caledonia. She considers herself a decolonial feminist designer, and an Educator of English literature who's passion is to show representation of the Kanak and Pacific Island women in her designs. In her discussion with us, she spoke of "double colonization" which refers to the idea that women are not only discriminated against because of their race, but also by men be
West Papuans have struggled for their freedom since they were annexed by Indonesia and robbed of their right to a fair referendum in 1969. While the independence struggle continues, it is the voice of the West Papuan women that have gone unheard. In this episode, we talk to one Indigenous West Papuan Activist, Esther Haluk to understand more about the compound plights the Papuan women face and why their voices and rights are being silenced. Esther Haluk is one of the many indigenous West Papuan women activists who have made it her mission to continue to fight for the freedom for her people by
Episode 21 - One woman's quest to restore the Melanesian Hauskuk to its rightful place in a Modern setting, and deconstructing the Western Kitchen. “But for me, it went more than that. I realize that we need to restore the dignity of indigenous Melanesian Food Culture, or cuisine. Starting with my particular sub ethnic group.I say sub-ethnic group specially because obviously, Vanuatu like PNG has many diverse sub ethnic groups as well too…” Claire Asi In this episode, we are going to talk to one woman who has made it her mission to work towards Restoring the Melanesian Hauskuk to its rightful
20. The Sea Women of Melanesia (SWoM)- Naomi Longa In this episode, we look at the role of Indigenous and Traditional Knowledge, and western science in Ecosystem-Based Adaptations especially when it comes to marine conservation. Things like Human activity such as overfishing, and climate change have been known to cause coral bleaching. Overfishing causes the number of fish to plummet and slowly breakdown the biodiversity if there is no proper ecosystem-based adaptation plans in place to manage our ecosystems. So what can be done about it? Dr. Mere speaks with Naomi Longa, who is a team leade
In many western countries progress is measured using GDP or Gross Domestic Product. GDP is the measure of all things produced within the borders of a country and then sold. Many countries have placed their hope that by measuring GDP they can follow the footsteps of western nations in lifting their populations into a better life. Since its inception, GDP has been criticized for many reasons, for example; how can unlimited growth be sustainable? How does GDP measure the well-being of the population? The answer is, it doesn't and it also isn’t sustainable. Vanuatu is a nation where a large majori
What drives a person to overcome obstacles in life? We all know that life is going to give us challenges, struggles, and it will force us to face our own fears and realities and at the same time help us get a more clear perspective of our values and passion. Listen to an inspirational story about how one Pacific Island woman overcame her fear of shyness and obstacles in life to find her passion in nursing the sick through her work as a registered nurse. We will follow her life journey from a young girl, refusing to give up on her education after failing her exams, and being rejected by several
