More than 1000 students, staff, families and community members came together for the second annual Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) Pasifika FiaFia Night, a wonderful celebration of Pasifika culture, identity, connection and community.
Held at St John XXIII Catholic College Stanhope Gardens, the event sold out in just one afternoon, reflecting the enormous pride young people and their families have in their cultures and their enthusiasm for sharing them with the wider community.
The event sold out in just one afternoon. Image: Gene Ramirez/ CSPD
Students from St Clare’s Catholic High School Hassall Grove, St Agnes Catholic High School Rooty Hill, Patrician Brothers’ College Blacktown and Nagle Catholic College Blacktown South took centre stage in the main evening showcase, alongside performances from Jannaawi Dance Clan and Kaimana Cultural Academy.
Former St Pauls Catholic College Greystanes student Joseph (JJ) Vuicakau (Class of 2006), who went on to become a finalist on The Voice Australia in 2025, shared his story and performed.
FiaFia has become a powerful way of strengthening students’ sense of belonging and connection. Image: Gene Ramirez/ CSPD
The celebration began earlier in the afternoon with Pasifika food trucks, cultural activities and entertainment including Sydney Onikenbai leading a Japanese dance troupe and Siva Afi fire show. Miss Samoa NSW and current Miss Samoa NSW contestants joined community representatives and guests. Principals and other school and system leaders also attended, including CSPD CEO Jack de Groot.
Beyond the colour, music and performances, FiaFia has become a powerful way of strengthening students’ sense of belonging and connection to their schools, families and community. The weeks of rehearsals, preparation and shared cultural experiences have also had positive flow-on effects for student engagement and attendance.
