Earlier this year, RUPA introduced a new program to provide support and understanding to rugby players after research revealed that up to 33% of Australia’s professional rugby players are from Pasifika backgrounds.
The Cultural Diversity and Development Program (CDDP) kicked off in January 2014 with the employment of Moera Sakimi as RUPA’s Cultural Diversity Development Manager.
Moera was engaged after RUPA partnered with the University of Western Sydney’s PATHE (Pasifika Achievement to Higher Education) Program facilitated by Dr Jioji Ravulo.
Together, Moera and Dr Jioji Ravulo have travelled across the country this year delivering eye-opening cultural diversity workshops to each of the five Super Rugby teams, the Wallabies and National Sevens.
The aim of the program and the workshops is to initiate further understanding of Pasifika players, their values and culture, through ongoing communication and learning.
The CDDP is part of RUPA’s Player Development Program (PDP), which aims to support players in maximising their potential on and off the field.
The latest CDDP workshop took place down in Melbourne with staff and players from the Rebels, including Melbourne Rebels CEO, Peter Leahy.
Rebels’ hooker, Pat Leafa stressed the importance of the workshops in getting to know teammates and a better understanding of their background and their culture.
“People sometimes find it hard to understand where we come from and how we do things. So I think it’s a key thing getting the team together and understanding all your teammates better.
“It was really good how the workshop showed the way Aussies perceives things compared to how Pacific Islanders do.
“For example, when a staff member is talking and looking directly in the eye, an Islander would be looking at the ground. But for us this is a sign of respect rather than a sign of disrespect.
“The presentation was very beneficial for players and staff in how they communicate with Pacific Islanders and vice versa, especially as there’s a few Pacific Islanders in our team and the extended squad.
“Jioji and Moera have done a great job in presenting cultural diversity and giving a better understanding to all the different Clubs around Australia.
“I think it’s a great idea by RUPA and I think the workshops are really beneficial for the future,” Pat said.
Feedback from players from each of the workshops is currently being collated and reviewed for the continued rollout of the CDDP in 2015.
