Media Association of Tonga

11/11/2025

The Women in Media Retreat brought together women from across Tonga’s media landscape - from experienced professionals to emerging voices in journalism and communications - for three days of reflection, collaboration, and empowerment.

Throughout the retreat, participants shared their experiences and inspiring stories of how media has influenced and enhanced their personal and professional journeys. Together, they discussed the importance of establishing Women in Media Tonga and explored ways to further strengthen the visibility, leadership, and contribution of women in Tonga’s media sector.

A key outcome of the retreat was the development of the group’s mission, vision and purpose as a working group under the Media Association of Tonga (MAT) - with a strong commitment to supporting MAT’s overarching goals first and foremost. Participants also outlined their ways of working and identified key activities for the 2026 period, setting a clear roadmap to advance women’s leadership, professional growth, and collaboration within Tonga’s media sector.

As part of this important milestone, Women in Media Tonga also confirmed its inaugural Committee Chair and Secretary team to help lead and coordinate the group’s ongoing activities in close alignment with MAT:
Chair : Katalina Tohi
Deputy Chair : Haitelenisia Angilau
Secretary : Katalina Siasau
Associate Secretary : Katalina Jnr. Tohi

Beyond the discussions, this retreat also provided a safe and supportive space for women to connect, reflect, and share their stories with openness and respect.

Mālō ‘aupito to the Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS) for supporting this meaningful initiative, and to all the remarkable women who continue to inspire, empower, and contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic media community in Tonga.

07/11/2025

BBC Media Action Launched Audience Research in Tonga
Nuku’alofa, Tonga – 7 November 2025:

BBC Media Action launched its audience research report, “Tonga: Understanding Audience Needs, Values, and the Role of Media and Communication,” at Ancient Tonga on Friday, 7 November 2025. The event brought together representatives from government, media, and civil society to reflect on findings and discuss how they could strengthen communication and engagement across sectors.
The research provided new insights into how audiences across Tonga engaged with media and communication, exploring the values, information needs, and trust factors that shaped public understanding. Conducted through a telephone survey of 1,050 adults and 12 focus group discussions, the study examined media access, usage, and experiences with misinformation and disinformation.

Findings showed that while most Tongans had access to mobile phones and the internet, high data costs and unstable connectivity remained barriers. Social media was the most frequently used platform, especially among youth, while radio continued to play a strong role among older audiences. Word of mouth, including kava club discussions, remained central for sharing and verifying information.

Economic concerns, particularly employment and future planning, were among the top issues for Tongans. Audiences expressed a desire for more coverage of local issues but continued to consume mainly entertainment content. Many reported encountering misinformation, though younger and more educated audiences expressed greater confidence in identifying it.

In his keynote speech, British High Commissioner to Tonga, His Excellency Phillip Malone, said:

“This research is more than data; it is a roadmap. It will inform BBC Media Action's future support to Tonga's media sector, strengthening its vital role in democratic stability and governance.”

BBC Media Action expressed appreciation to all partners and participants for their contribution to the study, reaffirming its commitment to supporting open, inclusive, and trusted communication in Tonga.

12/10/2025

A life well lived. Our heartfelt condolences to Mary and the family as we mourn with you on this great loss. Toka a Pesi ‘i he malumalu ‘o Satai ♥️

Nuku'alofa, Tonga: It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Pesi Siale Fonua (78), well known Pacific Islands journalist, publisher of Matangi Tonga Online, and beloved husband, father and grandfather, who died on 12 October 2025, at Vaiola Hospital in Tonga. Arrangements for the....

18/08/2025

All PACMAS alumni are welcome to join the Indo-Pacific Media Network, just launched by ABC International Development.

The network is a professional alumni community for media practitioners across the region who have participated in ABC International Development (ABCID) programs. Its purpose is to empower a diverse, regionally representative network of media professionals with tools, knowledge, and connections to thrive in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

What the Network offers:
🔹Continuous Learning — Regular online workshops, expert-led seminars, and AMA ("Ask Me Anything") sessions
🔹 Mentorship — Members mentoring other media workers in the region (coming in 2026)
🔹Community — A closed Facebook group for connection, sharing, and support
🔹 Recognition — Member Spotlights and annual Awards (coming in 2026) to celebrate impact and excellence
🔹 Regional Voice — Advisory Group and country-based champions help shape the Network, making it created for the region, by the region
🔹 And more exciting initiatives to come…. Including access to grants, placements, professional development and story collaborations

If you’ve taken part in an ABCID program in the past 4 years (which includes PACMAS) and are currently living and working in media (TV, online, radio/audio, print) in the Indo-Pacific region, this space is for you!

Join using the QR code or go here 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/abcidipmn

13/08/2025

The Indo-Pacific Media Network has officially launched — and we’re inviting all ABCID alumni to join! 🥳👏

The Indo-Pacific Media Network is a professional alumni community for media practitioners across the region who have participated in ABC International Development (ABCID) programs.

Its purpose is to empower a diverse, regionally representative network of media professionals with tools, knowledge, and connections to thrive in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

What the Network offers:
🔹Continuous Learning — Regular online workshops, expert-led seminars, and AMA ("Ask Me Anything") sessions
🔹 Mentorship — Members mentoring other media workers in the region (coming in 2026)
🔹Community — A closed Facebook group for connection, sharing, and support
🔹 Recognition — Member Spotlights and annual Awards (coming in 2026) to celebrate impact and excellence
🔹 Regional Voice — Advisory Group and country-based champions help shape the Network, making it created for the region, by the region
🔹 And more exciting initiatives to come…. Including access to grants, placements, professional development and story collaborations

If you’ve taken part in an ABCID program in the past 4 years and are currently living and working in media (TV, online, radio/audio, print) in the Indo-Pacific region, this space is for you!

Join now: Indo-Pacific Media Network

22/07/2025

21/07/2025

21/07/2025

ONGOONGO TUKUATU

‘Oku tukuatu heni ki he kakai ‘o e fonua, kuo fakata’e’aonga’i foki mei he Va’a Fefolau’aki Vakapuna Sivile ‘a e Potungaue ‘a e Setifikeiti Konga 145 ‘a e Kautaha Lulutai ‘o kamata mei he ‘aho 19 ‘o Siulai 2025, makatu’unga ‘i hono ma’u kuo nau maumau’i ‘a e ngaahi lao mo e tu’utu’uni ‘a e fefolau’aki vakapuna sivile.

Ko hono fakata’e’aonga’i ko eni ‘i he ‘uhinga ‘e fiema’u ke fakakakato ‘a e ngaahi fiema’u mo e ngaahi tu’utu’uni ‘a e Va’a Fefolau’aki Vakapuna Sivile ki he tu’unga totonu mo fakafiemalie. He’ikai ngofua ke fai ha to e ngaue ‘o ngaue’aki ‘a e setifikeiti koeni lolotonga ‘a e vaha’a taimi ko eni.

‘Oku ‘oatu aipe ‘a e kole kiate kinautolu kotoa pe ‘e uesia ‘i he fai tu’utu’uni ni ke mou kataki ‘o fetu’utaki ki he Kautaha Lulutai. ‘Oku kei tu’uma’u pe ‘a e fakahoko fatongia ‘a e Va’a Fefolau’aki Vakapuna Sivile ‘a e Potungaue ki he taumu’a ngaue ke malu ‘a e fefolau’aki ‘a e kakai ‘o e fonua. ‘E toe ‘oatu pe ‘a e ngaahi fakamatala tatau ‘amui ange ke tokoni atu ki he kaveinga ni.

18/07/2025

📸 2nd Press Club | 17 July 2025

The second Press Club for 2025 was successfully hosted at Ancient Tonga by Balance of Power, bringing together a vibrant mix of media professionals, youth leaders, students, and members of the public. Theme: Youth voices and Leadership Roles in Tonga.

Panelists Olive Mafi, Adi Mitimiti Pasikala, and Dr. Naʻa Patelesio shared powerful reflections on youth leadership, transparency, accountability, and the role of young people in shaping Tonga’s future. Their stories sparked deep conversations on the realities of leadership and the need for courage, integrity, and inclusiveness in decision-making.

Students from Tupou College Toloa, Tonga College ‘Atele, and Acts Community School participated actively — asking bold and critical questions about the challenges youth face, how to lead with values, and how to remain grounded in culture while adapting to change.

The event also received insightful feedback and thought-provoking questions from the not only the public but the students as well, who raised issues around youth representation in health issues, social issues, and the need for mentorship opportunities for young leaders. This cross-generational dialogue highlighted the community’s growing demand for transparent leadership and platforms where young voices are heard.

A heartfelt malo ‘aupito to Balance of Power for hosting and supporting this powerful event, and to all who attended and contributed to such a meaningful exchange. 🗣️🇹🇴

18/07/2025

📸 Background Briefing | 16 July 2025

The Media Association of Tonga held the background briefing for its second Press Club of the year hosted by the Balance of Power.

The session brought together media professionals from various outlets, including young journalists along with one of the youth panelists, Adi Mitimiti Pasikala. Also in attendance were the Project Director and Tonga Project Coordinator of BBC Media Action, PACMAS Tonga Coordinator, ABC reporter here in Tonga, Kele’a Newspaper, reporter from Matangitonga, Broadcom Broadcast and other stakeholders.

Malo ʻaupito to everyone who joined the important conversation leading up to our Press Club on the 17th, which was last night with the theme, Youth Voices and Leadership Roles in Tonga🗣️📰🇹🇴

16/07/2025