“Do it for those you love”

December 13 2011

The Lomu Family (from left to right): Katalau, Asena, Mele, Simione and Asi.

The Pacific Heartbeat team first met Tongan-born Asena Lomu in June 2011 at a two-day Community Nutrition Course in South Auckland. She was attending the course through the Counties Manukau DHB Church Programme, Lotu Moui, as a member of the Church of Tonga Manukau.

On the first day of the course Asena sat quiet and shy at the back of the church hall with her baby in the pram next to her. By day two she began sharing her thoughts and throughout the course she was quietly taking in all the learnings.

Asena went home and shared these learnings with those she loved, her husband Simione and children, Katalau (11), Asi (6) and Mele (1). This included controlling portion size by serving up meals directly onto plates, saving money by always shopping with a list and sticking to it, and reading labels on food.

“I really like the vermicelli salad recipe mum makes now,” says Katalau.

Since completing the course Asena has noticed other benefits including that the family eats healthier and she sleeps well at night.

Asena enjoyed the Community Nutrition Course so much that she applied to attend the AUT accredited CPN course. No longer shy and quiet, she was confident about sharing her knowledge with others. Asena graduates from CPN in December 2011.

Congratulations Asena and keep up the good work for yourself and those you love.

Find out more about our Certificate in Pacific Nutrition course.