Dr Cecelia Faumuina

A key area of her research is the documentation and archiving of Pacific creative practices. She is currently working with Kato Alu from ‘Eua, Tonga, recording and preserving the knowledge, processes, and cultural narratives associated with this important art form. Through this work, she contributes to the safeguarding of Pacific knowledge for future generations while exploring its relevance in contemporary contexts.

More recently, her creative practice research has explored the reinterpretation of traditional Tongan ngatu through Illustration, Moving Image and Virtual Production and Visualisation (VPV) technologies. This work investigates how emerging technologies can be used to extend Pacific storytelling traditions and create new ways of experiencing and engaging with cultural knowledge.

Alongside her research, Cecelia is an award-winning educator with more than 20 years of experience across primary, intermediate, secondary, and tertiary education in Aotearoa New Zealand. Her teaching is grounded in Pacific values and Indigenous approaches to learning, encouraging students to draw on cultural knowledge, creativity, and critical thinking in their own practice. In recognition of her contribution to teaching and Pacific student success, she received the Matariki Ururangi | Pacific Educator Award in 2026.

Through her research, teaching, and community partnerships, Cecelia is committed to strengthening the visibility and continuity of Pacific knowledge systems and supporting culturally grounded approaches to design, creative technologies, and education.