The Media Association of Tonga (MAT) led the service at the Centennial Methodist Church at Saione on Sunday, 30th of April, 2023.
The sermon was conducted by Rev. Tevita Ngungutau Tapueluelu, Manager and Editor of the Tohi Fanongonongo.
The hymns were read by Taina Kami Enoka of the Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS); Katalina Uili Tohi of Broadcom FM, and Teisa Pohiva of Kele’a Voice.
The Psalm was ready by Kalafi Moala, MAT President.
Bible readings were read by Latu Patolo of Taumu’a Lelei; Soane Patita Fifita of ‘Otumotu Anga’ofa Radio & Livestream; and Anau Taufa of the Australian High Commission.
It was the first ever service with World Press Freedom as the theme and also to be supported by the Media Association of Tonga.
The service was also attended by MAT members.
We have secondary school visits on Monday.
WPFD is an annual commemoration initiated by the United Nations, to emphasise Press Freedom all over the world. This year’s theme is: “Shaping a future of rights: freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights.”
Our keynote speaker this year is Sefita Hao’uli, a distinguished Tongan journalist of many years who is based in New Zealand.
Sefita was recently given an award – New Zealand Order of Merit, for his pioneer work in Pacific Media, as well as his leadership in the Community, including the labour mobility project from the Islands.
He is accompanied by his wife Tapu Misa, who will be doing a workshop for journalists and media workers on Tuesday morning at the Basilica Hall. Tapu Misa is Samoan and is currently editor of the E-Tangata, an online magazine for Maori and Pacific Islanders.
Malo ‘aupito to the Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS), the Australian High Commission, Maama U and I, Broadcom Boadcasting Letio 87.5FM and the Media Association of Tonga and MAT for making this possible.
Source: Media Association of Tonga