Meaningful relationships often begin with the sharing of food. During Refuge Lab 2019, take a seat at the table with INASI, an old Tongan festivity of the first harvest.

The Tongan proverb pikipiki hama kae vaevae manava tells of a sinking boat saved after nearby vessels are lashed to it: only by sharing our burdens can we make it to the shore. INASI draws inspiration from this tale, inviting you to share a meal and cultivate new relationships.

The Inasi is one of the oldest Tongan traditions, honouring others with speechmaking and the fruits of the season. Refuge Lab 2019 kicks off with a revitalised Inasi hosted by Latai and Seini Taumoepeau, emphasising the urgency of sharing today.

Join the feast as artists and community leaders share speeches as provocations and sink their teeth into the theme of Refuge 2019: Displacement.

Speakers:
Grace Vanilau
Lay the Mystic
Alec Reade
Yasbelle Kerkow
Rev Salesi Faupula
Nala Taukilo
Seini Taumoepeau
Latai Taumoepeau

Design by Veisinia Tonga
Food by Firecracker Events

Refuge INASI First Harvest is part of a series of events in the lead up to Refuge: Displacement, which takes place 31 August – 8 September 2019.