The INA (Māori, Indigenous & South Pacific) HIV/AIDS Foundation (INA) jointly with The Positive Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network (PATSIN) are co-hosting an Indigenous HIV Positive people’s satellite prior to the PAN Pacific Positive Peoples Gathering in Āotearoa/New Zealand - Sept 2008.

INA is planning for the satellite to be an introduction of PATSIN to Indigenous Āotearoa people and the Pacific Island Countries and Territories. It will offer a safe and confidential space for Indigenous HIV Positive people and their families to share their world views, values and journeys. Sharing our cultural identities to expand on our cultural strengths and beliefs as effective methodologies to addressing HIV in our communities.

The aim is to build and strengthen relationships between our nations, and within our wider HIV community. Maximizing opportunities to contribute our unique perspectives, experiences, cultural values, leadership and the advocacy work we incorporate within our daily lives. With focus on acknowledging our diversity, accepting our unique contributions and building strategies to work together within the South Pacific.

Topics will cover ;

• INA and PATSIN — respective journeys, experiences and achievements — Te Hikoitanga
• Indigenous World views — Te Āronga
• Cultural definition with regards to prevention and care of Positive Indigenous people — Tikanga
• Cultural strengths, values, beliefs and barriers, the Positive identities in our communities — Tino Rangatiratanga
• HIV Dreaming, the spiritual solution — Wairuatanga
• Forward planning and thinking, future partnerships and collaborative strategies — Tuakana, Teina