Dr Ate Moala
Dr Ate Moala is Tongan with over 40 years of experience in the health sector, serving as a clinician in hospitals and primary care settings in both New Zealand and Tonga. Her life’s work reflects a deep calling to serve, heal, and strengthen Pacific people—both in body and in spirit.
She has a rich and diverse background in Pacific health across many fronts, including strategic health policy, health service development, and frontline service delivery at provider and community levels. Over many years, she has played a significant role in shaping Pacific health in New Zealand and the region, including serving as Vice-President and President of the Pasifika Medical Association NZ, as well as in governance roles on health boards.
A consistent thread throughout Dr Moala’s career has been her commitment to advocacy, research, and practical solutions to improve the health and wellbeing of Pacific peoples. Her work continues today in health service management, Pacific health, and public health policy, while she remains deeply engaged with Pacific communities both in New Zealand and across the region to strengthen outcomes for families and future generations.
For the past 19 years, Dr Moala has worked alongside her husband, Dr Mark Sherwood, in their orthopaedic and spine surgery clinic, Pacific Orthopaedics in Wellington. Together, they see their professional work not merely as healthcare delivery, but as a platform for service, compassion, and Kingdom impact.
Dr Moala carries a particular burden for children, youth, and families. She is deeply intentional about leaving a legacy for the next generation and about strengthening families to remain connected, resilient, and purpose-driven. She actively mentors Pacific parents and families in navigating the challenges of raising children in a changing world.
Meet More of Our Dedicated Team Members
Caleb Osborne is a Rotuman creative and digital professional with a background in consultancy and a passion for using technology to elevate Pacific voices. He joined PLLFI to support the development of its digital presence and found himself drawn deeper into the mission — believing wholeheartedly in PLLFI's vision to transform the leadership landscape across the Blue Pacific Continent.
Talita Kefu is a seasoned Media and Communications professional with expertise in development and strategic communications. Drawing on her background in broadcast journalism, she has cultivated a deep commitment to preserving the Tongan language and has undertaken extensive translation projects for a wide range of stakeholders.
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