FESTIVAL ORGANISING TEAM
Sevia Saviour Nua
Board Chair
Sevia Saviour Nua known to most as Saviiey is a proud Fa’afafine of Samoan descent who hails from the villages of Solosolo, Fagali’i, Malie, Faleula and Asau. She also whakapapa’s to Ngāti Porou.
Saviiey is the founder and current Executive Director of Ngā Uri o Whiti Te Rā Mai Le Moana Trust (NUOWTR). The trust operates as a Youth Hub in Porirua East by utilising indigenous Pacific art forms to facilitate positive youth development and prides itself on being one of the only Pacific Rainbow organisations in the Wellington region. NUOWTR is fortunate to be supported and guided by F'INE Pasifika Aotearoa. She also continues to dedicate her time and effort for the advocacy of Takatāpui/MVPFAFF+ communities of Aotearoa through her role as the Pacific Rainbow Competency Coordinator at InsideOut Kōaro.
Saviiey is also a seasoned Kapa Haka performer and is a head tutor for Te Kapa Haka o Ngā Uri o Whiti Te Rā. With Saviiey spearheading this rōpu, they have performed at multiple events such as F.I.N.E Festival, Manioro (Hawke’s Bay), Hui Takatāpui & Wellington Pride. Her rōpu has garnered the attention of international festivals.
In 2020, Saviiey was the inaugural recipient of the Pasifika Aniva Arts Residency with Creative New Zealand & Pātaka Art + Museum. During this residency Saviiey presented and curated work based on the Takatāpui/MVPFAFF+ communities in Porirua/Wellington.
She brings exceptional experience to Wellington Pride Festival with her many community engagement roles within the Wellington region and her other professional roles she holds with many different government organisations.
Danae Malo
Board Member
Talofa lava and warm Pacific greetings to you all! Born and raised within South and Central Auckland and of Samoan descent, hailing from the beautiful villages of Malie and Alamagoto. Committed to championing diversity and inclusion, particularly highlighting MVPFAFF+ representation. Grateful to be involved in this meaningful kaupapa.
Craig Watson
Festival Director
Originally from Tāmaki Makaurau and now living in central Pōneke. An experienced event and project manager, work on large international sporting events, music festivals and community initiatives.
Passionate about diversity, safety and inclusion in our communities.
Ivan (Orijah) Atonio-Paletasala
Board Chair
Pronouns (He, She, They)
With a background in social justice and a passion for BBIQPOC rights, we welcome Ivan Atonio-Paletasala to our Board. They bring a multitude of assets and talents to the Pride Festival this year - an avid fat activist, a powerful performer and artist, and the voice of Pōneke Ballroom, we are excited to have Ivan join the team!
“Aunty Orijah is hereeeeee”