Help and questions
Short answers to the questions members ask most. Your membership today: Observer.
What is Talanoa Circle?
A talanoa circle is a traditional Pacific Island method of inclusive, open, and transparent conversation where participants sit in a circle to share stories, build empathy, and solve problems without hierarchy, strict time limits, or a formal agenda. [1, 2, 3]
Core Meaning
Talanoa: A shared Pacific term (from languages like Fijian, Tongan, and Samoan) meaning to tell a story, chat, or converse (tala means to tell or inform, and noa means open, free, or without pretense). [1, 2]
The Circle: Sitting in a circle places everyone on an equal footing, breaking down formal power dynamics between leaders and community members. [1, 2]
Key Characteristics
No Hierarchy: There is no designated chairperson, rigid structure, or predetermined winner/loser objective.
Grounded in Values: Rooted in Pacific values such as love ('Ofa), respect (Faka'apa'apa), warmth (Māfana), and humor (Mālie).
Reflective Process: Discussions do not follow a straight line; they allow for repetition, active listening, and space for both quick and slow thinkers to contribute.
Phased Approach: Often starts with a communal check-in or personal introduction before moving into open dialogue. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Common Applications
Community & Wellbeing: Used in mental health support groups, youth mentorship, and local problem-solving.
Education & Research: Applied by educators and researchers to gather authentic experiences from Pacific families and students.
Global Policy: Adapted internationally, such as the Talanoa Dialogue framework used in UN Climate Change Conferences.
How do I become a member?
Go to the Membership page, read the three types, and fill the short registration form. Observer is free and starts immediately.
What is the difference between the three types?
Observers read and listen. Associates also speak, post messages and join discussions. Full Members can additionally share stories and host meeting rooms. The full table is on the Membership page.
How do I pay?
By bank transfer, mobile money (M-Vatu, CellMoni, M-Pesa), or cash to a coordinator. Full steps are on the Payments page. Observer membership costs nothing.
Can I pay in my own currency?
Yes. Pay in kina, vatu, tala or Fiji dollars — your coordinator confirms the exact amount before you pay.
Can I pay by bank or mobile card online?
Online card payment is planned but not ready. Until then, use bank transfer, mobile money, or a coordinator.
How do I join a meeting?
Open the Meetings page, find the meeting in the schedule, and click “Join meeting”. Type your name, allow the microphone, and enter. No app or account is needed.
What if my internet data is small?
Join with your camera off — this is audio mode and uses very little data. One phone with a speaker can bring a whole group into the room.
Do I need a smartphone?
A phone, tablet or computer all work. Audio-only meetings work on modest phones and weak signals.
Who can see the stories?
Members of the Circle. Only Full Members may share a story, and only what their community has agreed may be shared.
How do I change my membership type?
Fill the registration form again on the Membership page and choose the new type. Pay on the Payments page if the new type has a fee.
Who do I contact?
Speak to your island or national coordinator, or leave a message on the notice board and a coordinator will reply.