Exploring pacific knowledge
Welcome to the research page of Olamelie Research & Consultancy. Here, we showcase our dedication to applied, community-engaged research focused on uplifting wellbeing, equity, and social transformation across Aotearoa New Zealand, Oceania, and the wider Moana region. Explore our key research areas and discover how we partner with communities to drive positive change.
Key research areas
Our research is deeply rooted in community needs and aspirations, guided by Pacific epistemologies and a commitment to relational accountability. We focus on:
- Faith, Religion, and Public Life – the role of faith in wellbeing, ethics, leadership, and social cohesion
- Pacific Wellbeing and Health – culturally grounded approaches to mental health, resilience, and community care
- Social Justice and Advocacy – addressing inequality, gender justice, safeguarding, and marginalisation
- Indigenous Knowledge and Decolonisation – Pacific epistemologies, research ethics, and knowledge sovereignty
- Climate Change and Sustainability – climate justice, environmental stewardship, and community resilience
- Governance and Leadership – ethical leadership, institutional capacity, and organisational wellbeing
- Education and Capacity Development – formation, lifelong learning, and research capability-building
- Migration and Diaspora Studies – identity, belonging, and transnational Pacific communities
Featured project: the lotu factor project
The Lotu Factor Project is a multi-year, HRC-funded, Pacific-led research initiative exploring the role of faith, spirituality, and religious institutions in shaping wellbeing, health, leadership, and social life in Pacific communities.
Grounded in indigenous Pacific knowledge systems and community-based research methodologies, the project examines how faith can be a source of strength, resilience, and social support, while also identifying the risks and challenges that arise when religious beliefs and practices intersect with issues such as mental health, gender justice, leadership, and public policy.
The Lotu Factor Project works in close partnership with Pacific communities, churches, and practitioners to produce evidence-based insights, practical tools, and policy-relevant resources that support healthier, more just, and more resilient Pacific futures.
Who we aim to reach
Our research is designed for:
- Pacific communities and families seeking culturally grounded approaches to wellbeing and resilience
- Churches, faith leaders, and religious institutions engaged in pastoral care, leadership, and social responsibility
- Health and social service providers working with Pacific peoples, particularly in mental health and wellbeing
- Policy-makers and government agencies shaping health, social, and community policy affecting Pacific communities
- Community organisations and NGOs involved in advocacy, safeguarding, and social development
- Researchers and educators in Pacific studies, theology, health, and social sciences
- Emerging Pacific leaders and practitioners seeking evidence-informed, community-based tools and resources
Engage with our research
After engaging with the Lotu Factor Project, we invite you to:
- Learn and reflect by exploring our research findings and resources
- Download reports and toolkits for use in community, church, health, and policy settings
- Engage in dialogue by contacting us to discuss the implications of the research
- Collaborate with CARE on community-led research, training, or pilot initiatives
- Apply the insights to strengthen wellbeing, leadership, safeguarding, and advocacy within Pacific communities
- Stay connected by subscribing to updates and future research releases