USO MO USO

USO 2 USO (Brother to Brother) is a culturally grounded wellbeing programme designed for rangatahi and young Pacifica men aged 17–25 years who are experiencing mental and emotional challenges.

Delivered by Pacifica men, for Pacifica men, this programme provides a safe, non-judgemental brotherhood space where participants can openly share, be heard, and receive support.

“A BROTHERHOOD WHERE PACIFICA YOUNG MEN CAN LAY THEIR BURDENS DOWN.”

USO 2 USO (Brother to Brother) is a group-based programme that combines talanoa, physical movement, and emotional regulation tools to support the mental wellbeing of young Pacifica men.

The programme recognises that many Pacifica men struggle to express what they are carrying due to cultural expectations around masculinity, strength, and silence. Despite this, the need for safe and trusted support spaces is significant, and Snapback Academy already holds strong, trusted relationships with this community. USO 2 USO builds on those relationships to offer meaningful, culturally safe support that promotes emotional release, connection, and healing.

PROGRAMME DESCRIPTION

The programme creates a space where participants can:

Speak openly without fear of judgement
Release anger and emotional pressure in a safe and controlled way
Build trust, brotherhood, and accountability
Access wraparound support when needed

Sessions are led by Pacifica male facilitators who understand the lived realities, cultural contexts, and pressures facing young Pacifica men today.

Brotherhood Support Groups (Talanoa-based):

Facilitated group sessions where young men can share their experiences, challenges, and emotions in a culturally safe environment.

Safe Emotional Release Through Boxing:

Structured boxing bag sessions used as a tool to safely release anger, frustration, and emotional stress while learning self-regulation and control.

Non-Judgemental Safe Space:

A space where participants are listened to, respected, and supported — not lectured or judged.

Pacifica Male Leadership:

Delivered by Pacifica men who reflect participants’ identities and lived experiences, helping to break down barriers to engagement.

Wraparound Support:

Ability to connect participants with additional supports such as mental health services, mentoring, social services, or community resources as required.