Sam Manuela

Dr. Sam Manuela is a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Auckland's Faculty of Science, serving as Associate Dean Pacific in the Faculty of Science Administration. They hold a PhD in Psychology from the University of Auckland (2017). Their research focuses on Pacific peoples' psychological well-being, cultural identity, and societal impacts of discrimination. They've developed key assessment tools like the Pacific Identity and Wellbeing Scale (PIWBS) and PIWBS-R, which are foundational for culturally-appropriate research. Recent work addresses climate migration's psychosocial effects, Pacific LGBTQ+ health equity, and institutional barriers for Māori/Pacific students.

Key Research Themes:

• Pacific cultural identity & discrimination impacts
• Climatic migration psychology
• Mental health disparities
• Indigenous methodologies in academia

Engagement & Leadership:

• Co-chair of Māori and Pacific Psychology Committee (2017-2022)
• Member of Psychology Equity Committee & Pasifikology
• Expert witness for Royal Commission on Abuse in Care regarding Pacific cultural identity & wellbeing

Academic Impact: Over 40 peer-reviewed articles in top journals like Higher Education Research & Development and Climate and Development, with work cited in policy reports and media. Active in educational reform to center Pacific voices in pedagogy and institutional structures.