PCF was proud to welcome Manaaki Scholars from across the Asia-Pacific into the heart of the Pacific—Māngere—for a day of connection, learning, and action. For many, it was their first time venturing beyond central Auckland, and you could feel the buzz in the air as they explored the Saturday markets, met locals, and discovered the warmth of Pacific hospitality.

But the real purpose of the day was collaboration: working alongside Watercare on their public campaign to educate communities about biosolids—what happens after you flush, and how wastewater is transformed into something that can restore land. From lively conversations at the Festive Zone to a powerful visit to Puketutu Island, where biosolids are being used to regenerate the whenua, the scholars experienced firsthand how knowledge meets practice in Aotearoa New Zealand.

This day was more than an outing—it was a celebration of shared values, a chance to extend manaaki beyond the campus, and a reminder of how Pacific youth leadership can shine when given real-world opportunities.

Step into a journey that will challenge, inspire, and connect you. We are calling for Expressions of Interest for our next Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia (PMSA) Thailand Experience. Delivered in partnership with Education New Zealand Manapou ki te ao, Pagoda Projects, and Princess Chulabhorn Schools, this programme offers Pacific participants the chance to build global citizenship skills, explore Thailand’s STEM and innovation sectors, and bring fresh insights home. Hear from past PMSA Vietnam alumni whose experiences transformed their perspectives — and see how this could be your next big ste

PCF secures PMSA funding for 9-week Pacific internship in Thailand
In partnership with Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao, Pagoda Projects, and Thailand’s Princess Chulabhorn Science High Schools, is proud to launch a fully funded internship programme for Pacific young people. Running November 2025 to February 2026, this work-integrated learning experience empowers participants to grow as global citizens while deepening cultural connections across the Asia-Pacific. Expressions of Interest are now open.

PCF recently hosted an engaging onboarding session for our inaugural cohort of all-female Pacific entrepreneurs, set to participate in the Prime Minister’s Scholarships to Asia program in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This immersive day went beyond introductions, offering cultural insights, team-building, and personal goal-setting to fully prepare each participant. From meeting a local from Ho Chi Minh City to exploring Auckland’s bustlinghospo scene, the cohort experienced a taste of Vietnamese life while aligning with PCF’s mission of strengthening Pacific-Asia connections. Our onboarding session reflects PCF’s commitment to supporting and empowering Pacific women entrepreneurs, with the full blog detailing our program activities and stakeholder dedication. Read more about how PCF is fostering impactful international experiences on the blog.