S01 E21 - Talanoa with Auckland Council Pacific Economy Lead Sarah Leo - May 9 2026
Two Palagi in a Pisinisi PodShow Notes
Summary
Along with their normal discussion about business activity in the Pacific this week Dave talks about the time he spent on Atiu Island. The main feature in this episode is that, while Dave was at Atiu, Glen sat down with Sarah Leo who leads Auckland Council’s engagement with Auckland’s Pacific economy. Sarah shares her journey, the importance of Pacific businesses in Auckland's economy, and the impactful work of quantifying and supporting the Pacific economy through data, partnerships, and leadership development.
Key topics
Quantifying the Pacific economy in Auckland The impact of Pacific-owned businesses on the local economy Leadership development and economic growth strategies for Pacific communities
Guest name
Sarah Leo
Sound bites
"By 2043, one in five workers in Auckland will be of Pacific descent." "Our growth is in Pacific businesses, especially in creative sectors." "I love the work I do and feel privileged to contribute."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Talanoa 09:55 Economic Development and the Role of Pacific Businesses 15:03 Quantifying the Pacific Economy: Insights and Data 19:50 Partnerships and Collaborative Initiatives for Growth 24:59 Cultural Influence and Creative Exports 30:12 Conclusion and Future Aspirations 37:00 Pacific Activity this week
Resources
Teu Le Va Website - https://aucklandeconomicdevelopment.com/economy-and-insights/research-and-reports/Teu-Le-Va-Pacific-Work-Programme Business Trust - https://pacificbusiness.co.nz Auckland Council Economic Development - https://aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
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