MANA RESTORATION WORKSHOP
Restoring MANA is essential for Pasifika people as it represents our inherent dignity, strength, and spiritual essence, Mana is not just individual; it is deeply tied to family, culture, and community, making its restoration a collective process. However, it can be diminished by experiences of incarceration, disconnection, and systemic barriers. When mana is restored, individuals regain their sense of identity, self-worth, and purpose, empowering them to make positive choices and rebuild their lives. Through culturally grounded support, faith, and reconnection with their roots, we help individuals reclaim their mana, fostering resilience, healing, and a renewed sense of belonging.
The Program
The Mana Restoration Program is a culturally grounded initiative designed to support Pasifika individuals impacted by incarceration. Rooted in Pasifika values and spirituality, this program restores a person’s true identity—their mana—which represents their strength, resilience, dignity, and spirit.
Program Structure
The program is delivered over 12 weeks or 12 months (once day per week or one day per month), with each week focusing on a different module. Participants begin their journey while in custody and are encouraged to complete the full program in the community after release, ensuring continuity of support and cultural connection during reintegration.
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In Custody: Participants may complete one or more modules while in custody (pre-release).
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In Community: Those who start in custody are encouraged to complete the full program upon release, reinforcing personal growth and connection to a support network (post release).
Program Modules
Each module builds on the last, guiding participants through a process of reflection, healing, and transformation. Some of the modules include:
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Mana & Identity – Understanding the meaning of mana and reconnecting with cultural identity.
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The Impact of Violence – Understanding the effects of violence and developing non-violent solutions.
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Addiction & Recovery – Exploring the roots of addiction and steps toward healing.
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Leadership & Service – Learning to give back and serve the community.
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Planning for the Future – Setting goals and building practical life skills.
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Graduation & Next Steps – Celebrating progress and committing to ongoing growth.
Why Cultural Connection is Essential for Reintegration
Research shows that cultural identity and belonging are critical for rehabilitation and successful reintegration. Studies on culturally responsive programs highlight that individuals who reconnect with their cultural roots experience:
✔ Greater self-worth and resilience – Knowing who you are strengthens your ability to navigate challenges.
✔ Reduced reoffending rates – A strong cultural foundation and support network lower the risk of reoffending.
✔ Improved mental and emotional well-being – Understanding cultural values like alofa/loloma (love), vā (relational space), and tautua (service) fosters healing and purpose, waka (community and the journey of life).
For many Pasifika individuals in the justice system, disconnection from culture leads to isolation, shame, and a loss of identity. The Mana Restoration Program reverses this by using a cultural lens—centering Pasifika ways of thinking, healing, and growing.
A Cultural Lens for True Restoration
Rather than applying a Western correctional approach, our program embraces Pasifika ways of knowing and being:
✅ Talanoa & Storytelling – Creating safe spaces for open and honest conversations.
✅ Collective Healing – Strengthening family and community ties.
✅ Spiritual and Cultural Practices – Prayer, song, and traditional customs to restore identity and self-worth.
✅ Values-Based Transformation – Teaching responsibility through cultural concepts like faka’apa’apa (respect) and fa’atuatua (faith).
More Than Rehabilitation – A Pathway to a New Life
The Mana Restoration Program is more than rehabilitation—it is a restoration of spirit, dignity, and future pathways. By using a culturally safe and empowering approach, we help individuals not just reintegrate, but thrive as valued members of their families and communities.