Step into a world where culture comes alive, where tradition meets creativity, and where every brushstroke tells a story. Welcome to It Takes a Village, where Pulusea and Afa Seumanu are on a mission to celebrate and preserve the vibrant cultures of Aotearoa and beyond.

 

A Vision Takes Shape

It all began with a shared passion for education and a deep-rooted desire to fill a gap in cultural resources for children. With over two decades of kindergarten teaching experience in South Auckland, Pulusea Seumanu, alongside his brother Afa, a seasoned signwriter, recognized the need for Māori and Polynesian resources in early childhood education. Drawing from their Samoan heritage, they set out to create something truly special.

 

Bringing Cultures to Life
 

At It Takes a Village, we specialize in hand-painted Māori and Polynesian cultural resources, meticulously crafted to ignite curiosity and foster cultural pride. From intricately detailed peg doll pieces representing iconic structures like Fale O'o, Wharenui, and Pataka, to captivating myths and legends, each creation is a testament to our commitment to sharing the richness of our cultures with the world.

 

Embracing Diversity
 

As proud Samoan and Chinese Kiwis, we infuse our creations with elements from our diverse heritage, celebrating the beauty of cultural fusion. From Chinese cultural additions to plans for exploring more cultures in the future, our goal is to create a tapestry of diversity that resonates with people from all walks of life.

 

Artistry in Action
 

What sets us apart is not just our products but the personal touch we bring to every piece. With Afa painting live at markets, children and adults alike get a glimpse into the artistic process, fostering a deeper connection with our creations and the cultures they represent.

 

Fostering Pride and Connection
 

Participation in markets and events has not only attracted crowds but also inspired suggestions for new products and cultures. From educators using our dolls as ice breakers to families seeking culturally rich wedding cake toppers, the demand for our creations continues to grow.

 

A Vision for the Future

As we embark on new projects and explore new cultures, our commitment to fostering cultural pride remains unwavering. Through exposure and discussion, we aim to normalize often-underrepresented cultures, empowering children to take pride in their heritage and fostering greater understanding and appreciation among communities.

Join us on this extraordinary journey as we continue to craft culture, one brushstroke at a time. Together, let's celebrate the richness of diversity and the beauty of cultural heritage with It Takes a Village.