with Dr.Michael Ligaliga
 Session 1: Tuesday 24 September 2024| 12:30pm – 2.00pm NZ Time

 Session 2: Tuesday 1 October 2024| 12:30pm – 2.00pm NZ Time 

Online - Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia

This two session introductory workshop will focus on enhancing understanding of Pacific family structures and begin to look at how we could integrate Pacific family values into our FDR practice.

The context of the pacific region and its cultural diversity, as well as the ‘why’ behind the centrality of family to Pacific cultures will be explored.

Join this workshop if you are ready to begin a journey which will highlight some of the potential challenges that FDR practitioners may face when working with Pacific families.

The workshop will be interactive and responsive to the needs of the group, with an opportunity for live questions. Discussion will focus around strategies for building trust with Pacific clients and practical advice for conducting FDR sessions with Pacific families.

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Dr. Michael Ligaliga

Dr. Michael Ligaliga is a highly respected expert in Pacific alternative dispute resolution, with over a decade of experience in the field. A Samoan native, Dr. Ligaliga combines his deep understanding of Pacific Islander cultures with a robust academic background to pioneer approaches in conflict resolution that honor and elevate indigenous practices. He holds a PhD in Peace and Conflict Studies, where his research focused on decolonizing peacebuilding practices and integrating indigenous methodologies into contemporary conflict resolution frameworks.

Dr. Ligaliga is currently an Assistant Professor and Program Lead for the Intercultural Peacebuilding Program, at Brigham Young University Hawaii, where he teaches courses on group conflict, peacebuilding, and alternative dispute resolution. His academic work is deeply informed by his cultural heritage, particularly in the realms of family and community-based conflict resolution, which are central to his teachings. 

In addition to his academic career, Dr. Ligaliga serves as a consultant for various organizations, including his consultancy firm, HIVA ADR Consultancy. His consultancy specializes in integrating Pacific perspectives into global conflict resolution practices, offering tailored training and advisory services. Dr. Ligaliga has worked with government agencies, NGOs, and international bodies, providing them with culturally appropriate conflict resolution strategies.

Dr. Ligaliga is also an accomplished speaker, having delivered numerous presentations and master classes, including recent sessions in New Zealand and Australia focused on the importance of family in Pacific Conflict Resolution. His contributions to the field continue to inspire and influence both practitioners and scholars in the Pacific and beyond

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Ia manuia 

Dr Michael Fusi Ligaliga

HIVA ADR CONSULTANTS

hiva.co.nz

linkedin.com/in/michaelligaliga