Talanoa Aotearoa (Path to Purpose)

"Talanoa is a traditional word· used across the Pacific to reflect· a process· of inclusive, participatory and transparent· dialogue·. The purpose· of Talanoa is to share· stories, build empathy and to make· wise· decisions for the collective good·. The process· of Talanoa involves the sharing of ideas, skills, and experience· through storytelling.

During the process·, participants build trust· and advance· knowledge· through empathy and understanding. Blaming others and making critical· observations are inconsistent with building mutual· trust· and respect·, and therefore inconsistent with the Talanoa concept·. Talanoa fosters stability· and inclusiveness in dialogue·, by creating a safe space that embraces mutual· respect· for a platform· for decision· making for a greater good·. ”