2022 Student Scholars
What an experience! First, I want to mahalo the Margo Kerrigan and Papa Ola Lokahi’s Hui ‘Ana scholarship. I am so thankful that I was able to attend an event like this. This was my first APHA conference and I didn’t know what to expect. I knew it was going to be big, but I wasn’t prepared for the magnitude of indigenous knowledge all in one place. The first day of the conference was really nice getting to know the other scholars and Papa Ola Lokahi people. It really felt like we knew each other for a while. Everyone was so nice and welcoming. It felt good to learn from other scholars and those who have similar interest in indigenous public health. I loved hearing from the elders. Uncle Mike is funny and intelligent, I loved listening to his stories and how he answered questions with seriousness and humor. Patricia is such a beautiful person inside and out it was an honor hearing about her APHA journey and all the work that she has done for indigenous communities. Sheri (kupuna in training) is someone I look up to and I always value her knowledge. It was so good hearing her share her thoughtful responses to our questions. I still have to get me some coffee ice cream ☺ One of my favorite presentations was Lilinoe Kauahikaua, how she broke down Native Hawaiian knowledge and the role it plays in our healing was well thought out and explained in a way I can absolutely relate to. Too often our knowledge is not looked at as legitimate data because it does not fit into the Western context of research. Her presentation showed how Native Hawaiian ways of knowing has been proven to work for our heling for many generations and should be acknowledged.
Tamara “Tam-e”Fa’gau
First, I would like to say it was a privilege to have been selected as a scholar and I am very thankful for the opportunity.
The most meaningful part of this experience was making connections with other scholars. Being surrounded by those seeking advanced degrees was very inspirational to me as a non-traditional student. To hear stories of those who want to make a difference in their communities, states, and the country was very motivating and left me emotional.
The kick off of the Opening General Session gave the perfect momentum for setting the pace for the rest of the conference. Hearing Professor Loretta Ross, a leader in the study of women’s rights was very inspiring and uplifting. Her presentation gave a message of reflection and hope and insight to the changes we need to make and how we can continue to make progress in the areas of public health. It was an added bonus that her delivery was humorous.
I attended the AIANNH Caucus sessions as outlined on our provided agenda and as a first time attendee of this conference, I think it was a great way to navigate this conference that was overwhelmingly huge for me. The AIANNH Executive Board Meeting as well as the Membership Meeting gave me the opportunity to familiarize myself with the people serving on the Caucus. Meeting Patricia Cochran and Michael Bird in person was definitely a highlight as I have listened in on webinars they have been on in the past, making the connection was an incentive. As well as getting to see Ingrid Stevens and of course Sara Suzuki of the Student Assembly. It was at this session where I became a caucus member. The caucus sessions created a space for connections to be made and to see the similarities between the American Indians, Alaskan Natives and Native Hawaiians and the challenges and obstacles we face as Indigenous peoples. Hearing the stories of resilience in the face of adversity was really moving. I enjoyed listening to how communities came together during the Covid Pandemic and the projects that were created to make sure people were provided with education and resources. Food sustainability was a common thread but more importantly, the traditional foods and the importance as it relates to preserving one's culture.