The Royal Oceania Institute hosted it’s inaugural event on 31 March and 1 April, 2016 at Davina House, Nuku’alofa. A free workshop was held on Negotiations and Public Affairs for interested parties from the government, parliament, civil society organisations, media and private sector. The workshops featured Mr Robert Valdmanis, a former Director of Communications and Public Affairs for Rio Tinto Alcan and current Professor at Concordia University, Montreal, Canada. Mr Valdmanis explained that, “A key object of the exercise is to help parties craft sustainable and optimal outcomes from complex negotiations”.




Tatafu Moeaki (MOF), Elizabeth Kite (ROI), Viliami Takau (TCOC), Peter Poulsen (MOF).
Front L-R: Minolu Nishi (NISHI TRADING), Fane Fakafanua (ROI), Lord Fakafanua (ROI), Robert Valdmanis (ROI),
Liz Sullivan (DAVINA HOUSE). Absent from photo: Sulia Makasini (LA), Silivia Atiola (LA), Nailasikau Halatuituia (UTILITY BOARD), Sela Ma’afu (CARITAS), Siamelie Latu (MFAT), Saia Havili (RFB), Tevita Motulalo (ROI)
Andrew Teame (CSOF), Jeannet Vea (PSC), Epeli Taione (TRIESTEN TECH), Sisi’uno Helu (‘ATENISI).
Front L-R: Tevita Motulalo (ROI), Luseane Luani (89.5FM), Lord Fakafanua (ROI), Robert Valdmanis (ROI), Fane Fakafanua (ROI). Absent from photo: Viola Ulakai (TBC), Lopeti Senituli (EX-MIA), Monalisa Palu (PR) , Colin Latu (TRIESTEN TECH)