CEO awarded Member of New Zealand Order of Merit

As we celebrate the recipients of the 2024 King’s New Year Honours list, we proudly recognise our CEO, Lemalu Silao Vaisola Sefo, who has been named as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his unwavering dedication to Pacific Health.

The New Zealand Order of Merit is awarded to persons, who in any field of endeavour, have rendered meritorious service to the Crown and the nation or who have become distinguished by their eminence, talents, contributions, or other merits.

Lemalu, a dynamic leader born in Gagaifolevao, Samoa, has been CEO of South Seas Healthcare Trust for over eight years. An accomplishment recently recognised at the 2023 Sunpix Awards, for being one of the Community Leadership recipients.

His visionary leadership has been instrumental in expanding services and realising our vision for excellent healthcare for Pacific and all peoples.

A graduate of the University of Otago, Lemalu carries the chiefly title Lemalu from the village of Matautu, Lefaga.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, South Seas, under Lemalu's leadership guidance, played a crucial role in partnering with Pacific churches and many community providers and groups to support all families during the pandemic.

As we continue to collaborate with churches, sports clubs, community groups, and corporates including Woolworths, ONE NZ, Blues Rugby and many more incredible groups, the possibilities are endless, to supporting families in a way that is meaningful to the community.

Lemalu strongly advocates that the achievements in Pacific Health result from embracing a collaborative village-style approach, fostering partnerships not only within the health sector but also extending to non-health entities. It is also about bridging gaps in partnerships, relationships and technology.

Embracing the digital era, Lemalu emphasises the need for local healthcare professionals to engage online, ensuring accurate information dissemination in the post-digital age.

Lemalu emphasises the importance of addressing social determinants, such as employment and housing issues, to support Pacific families through these challenging times.

Once again, a heartfelt congratulations to Lemalu for his honours and for shining the light brightly for South Seas and Pacific healthcare across Aotearoa.