Will's Word: Pacific excellence on the world stage continues

Will's Word is usually where I have a bit of a grumble. It's often about politics, policy, or something that's gone wrong in the world.

But this morning as I was heading into work, I realised we've got an awful lot to be proud of.

Last night, Auckland restaurant Tala became the only Sāmoan restaurant anywhere in the world to receive a Michelin star. The only one.

A Michelin star by the way is one of the highest honours in hospitality anywhere on earth. And now, Sāmoan cuisine sits on that stage for the whole world to see. How cool is that?

Then I thought back to yesterday's show. We spoke about Vea Mafile'o and Tusi Tamasese, two incredible Pacific storytellers who've been invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. They're now helping decide who wins the Oscars.

And before long we'll see Disney's live action Moana hit cinemas, once again putting our cultures, our stories and our people in front of audiences across the world.

Sometimes we spend so much time talking about what our communities are struggling with that we forget to celebrate what we're achieving.

So here is a reminder to those including myself that Pacific people are leading, creating, and setting the standard. Whether it's food, film, or the arts we're showing the world what excellence looks like.

Lets tell these stories just as loudly as we tell the difficult ones.

Listen to Will's Word below.