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ABOUT NUMBER 
EIGHT PRISON PROJECT

PROUD 2024 ZEST AWARD WINNERS - OUTSTANDING CALD PROJECT FOR OUR INCLUSIVE JUSTICE PROJECT.

“SERVICES THAT PROVIDE CULTURALLY APPROPRIATE AND SENSITIVE SUPPORTS TO THE COMMUNITY ARE EFFECTIVE DIVERSIONARY MEASURES”

Mission Australia – Youth Diversionary Programs Report

Our vision at Number 8 Prison Project is to see Pasifika people empowered after a term of incarceration. We do this by providing support to Pasifika prisoners and their families within cultural perspectives. Our hope is that in doing so, we will affect not just the individual but communities and generations that follow.  To provide support in the community, to see people outside of the context of their criminality is to reduce recidivism, build stronger families and stronger communities.

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  1. To provide a culturally appropriate program(s) where Pasifika offenders/individuals can be understood in the context of their social and cultural construct to enable lasting change and development

  2. N8PP aims to reduce the recidivism rate within the Pasifika community by providing intensive support in areas of employment, health and housing.

  3. N8PP aim to work alongside community leaders to strengthen existing mentor relationships and to provide, information and alternative pathways to formal health and wellbeing services.

  4. N8PP aim to assist clients from Pasifika backgrounds with accessing support services and navigating corrections and justice systems

  5. N8PP aims to support clients by assisting to build sustainable pathways out of the justice system and entry to community

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  1. We are grounded in faith based principles. We believe that this was a God given and ordained vision and we cannot do it without Him.

  2. We respect all people and cultures, value diversity and committed to equality and inclusion

  3. We engage collaborative practice to support families and community

  4. We are committed to a culture or integrity honesty, trust and confidentiality

  5. We believe that redemption and compassion is available to all.

  6. We believe that perseverance is key to success

About Us: A Journey Rooted in Passion and Commitment.

Founded in 2020 by Diana Curuenavuli, the Number 8 Prison Project (N8PP) was born out of a pressing need to challenge and transform the patterns of recidivism affecting Pasifika individuals in the criminal justice landscape. Diana's personal journey, marked by her son's experiences within the correctional framework, became the touchstone for N8PP's creation.

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At N8PP, our ethos revolves around bespoke, culturally-sensitive programs, meticulously curated to diminish recidivism rates and extend unwavering support to families of the incarcerated. Our foundation rests upon the collective expertise and insights of diverse professionals, all of whom bring rich, personal experiences from the criminal justice milieu.

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The official inauguration of Number 8 Prison Project Incorporated took place on August 10, 2022, at Blacktown's Max Webber Function Centre. The event was graced by Mayor Bleasdale of Blacktown City Council, enlightened by Professor Jioji Ravulo's keynote address, and further elevated by Senator David Shoebridge's presence.

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​At that juncture, our client base was modest, and we aspired to achieve a steady growth rate of 1% each year. 

Provided support to Pasifika families via our Family Support Program, inclusive of enriching Talanoa Sessions and Tokoni Crisis Assistance.

ZEST AWARD WINNERS 2024

ZEST COMMUNITY IMPACT GRANT WINNERS 2024

Actively engaged with Correctional Facilities in New South Wales.

 Recipients of the Stronger Together Grant from Multicultural NSW, 2022.

Delivered support to individuals both before and after their release from custody.

Conducted Talanoa sessions (group therapy sessions) for both men and women.

Recidivism isn't just a statistic; it's lives, families, and communities. Recognising this, N8PP's holistic approach intertwines family reinforcement, community outreach, and cultural and spiritual reconnection. Our dedication remains unyielding as we strive to make a lasting positive impact both within the Pasifika community and the broader criminal justice realm.

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Our Pillars: The Founding Members

Our heartfelt appreciation goes out to the visionaries and pillars of N8PP. Their insights and dedication chart the course for our future endeavours:

  • Kalala Naufahu

  • Lasini Naufahu

  • Linda Sainsbury

  • Debbie Simons

  • Mataiasi Tuifua

  • Marie Yett

  • Jacqui Namakadre

  • Belinda Lewaravu

  • A Ansari

  • Litia Curuenavuli

  • Jesoni Curuenavuli

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Special thanks also go to our corporate and academic champions, including Professor Jioji Ravulo, Elfa Moraitakis, Professor Brian Stout, Senator David Shoebridge, and the late Mayor Tony Bleasdale.

Your support of the ideas, Pasifika communities and programs has been invaluable.

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Malo vakalevu, fa'afetai tele lava, malo aupito, meitaki, whakawhetai koe! 

Thank you is not enough!

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Our People

Diana Curuenavuli

Founder and CEO

Lilly Cannon

Treasurer

Belinda Lewaravu

Chaplains Team Lead and Secretary

Litia Curuenavuli

Volunteer Coordinator and Board Member

Lote Hedges-Lavulo

MANA | Support Coordinator

Kelly Smith

MANA Support Coordinator and Facilitator

Royal Priesthood - Pst Ray and Pst Nox Malau'ulu

MANA Restoration Facilitators

Seilosa Patterson - Life Coach

MANA Restoration Facilitator

One Love Mentoring - Joe Tau

MANA Restoration Facilitator

L2TL Clothing - Salvation Mumu

MANA Restoration Facilitator

Jesoni Curuenavuli

Chair

Jacqui Namakadre

Public Officer 

Debbie Simon

MANA Transition to Home -Team Lead and Board Member

Christina Tupou

Board Member

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Atelaite Taukeiaho

Intake Officer

A Ansari

Web Designer

Liverpool City Church - Pst William Valevatu 

MANA Restoration Facilitator

Manu Vuniwawa - Mount Zion Church

MANA Restoration Facilitator

Pauliasi Koroiwaca

MANA Restoration Facilitator

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