Student Selection & Preparation

Early in Year 10, prospective team members attend a compulsory weekend residential program. Students are introduced to aspects of Tongan culture including the language, dress, food, an understanding of kava ceremonies and social etiquette. The preparatory program also includes attendance at a Tongan language church service. Students are introduced not only to Tongan customs for Christian worship but to the challenges of following social cues with little understanding of the language being spoken. This also prepares students for one of the most important events for showing respect in Tongan culture on their visit to Ha'apai: their attendance at the village church for Sunday morning service.

The success of the program is built upon careful preparation. Following the residential weekend program, students are required to undertake a personal evaluation and submit this as part of their application. Students are then interviewed by staff leaders prior to their being accepted as a member of the Tonga CAFE Team for that year. Many students take part time jobs as part of their personal commitment to raising the funds for their personal involvement. Team members also attend a weekly team meeting during Term 2 as well as participate in fundraising activities for gifts to Taufa'ahau Pilolevu College and Tongan service agencies.

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