Simaima Palei is a poet with roots in Fakakakai, Ha’apai and Hofoa, Tongatapu, Tonga. Born and raised on the North Shore, Tāmaki Makaurau. She is a first-generation Tongan born in Aotearoa. Despite not having had physical contact with her roots, she is spiritually connected to the callous hands of her ancestors, who embarked on a journey to bring to fruition the hopes and dreams that fuelled their pursuit of happiness for a meaningful life. This lifelong pursuit continues for Simaima, who hopes to one day visit her roots and ensure the richness of our Pacific homelands across the Moana is sustained for future generations.