StandingTallNZ.org
2 min read
Bros E-Learning Platform
Kia ora, I’m Vinnie, the Kaitiaki (guardian) of this page. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back, I’m here to help.
Purpose of this platform
This webpage is dedicated to Māori and Pacific men who have experienced childhood sexual abuse. We understand that sharing your story and seeking help can be challenging, but you are not alone. This space is for you – to learn new skills, get support, resources, and be in a community that understands and stands by you.
Learning outcomes
The aim of this webpage is to help you:
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Understand the impact of childhood sexual violence.
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Recognise trauma, silence, and shame and find a way forward.
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Learn about our framework Te Ao Marama: A guide to work through historical violence and trauma, mental health, addictions and sucide prevention.
Understanding the Impact of Childhood Sexual Abuse
What happened to you is not your fault. Yes, it happened, but it does not define you. We’re here to support you as you take steps towards healing. Start the process by accessing completing the first Module.
Learning to come forward and get support
Module 1: Te Kore (The Void)
Experiencing sexual violence, family harm, and other challenges can affect how we see the world and understand the spaces we’re in. This can leave us feeling in chaos, which is called "Te Kore." The goal of this module is to help you move from that state of chaos (Te Kore) into a place of possibility – Te Korekore.
Activity: Watch a video – Start this journey out of Te Kore by watching a video that shares Māori and Pacific men's perspectives on coming forward. If you feel triggered at any point, please reach out to us so we can support you. Then take a break, get in a walk or exercise for ten minutes to get your head in the space for the next module.
Māori
Pacific
Module 2: Te Korekore (The Realm of Potential)
Watch a video Pain To Power: Sexual Abuse Recovery w/ Dr. Alexander Stevens II or
Listen to the Podcast via Spotify.
Activity: Reflect on what the men went through in the previous videos in Te Kore, what they experienced, and what you heard from Dr. Stevens II. Make a list of your own strengths or positive qualities that will help you get through this time. The goal is to help you recognize your own resilience.
This activity is designed to help you see yourself as strong and capable, even if you're just starting your healing journey.
Extra Activity: Go to our page about what other bros think and feel about this topic.
Module 3: Taiao (The Environment)
Watch a video The psychology of post-traumatic stress disorder
Activity: Many bros (not all) have PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) which can make you feel constantly on edge, like your mind and body are stuck in survival mode. You might find yourself anxious, tense, or triggered by everyday things, making it hard to relax or feel safe.
One way to help calm this is by connecting with taiao, the natural environment around you. Being outside in nature can help your nervous system settle, ease stress, and bring a sense of peace to your wairua (spirit). The fresh air, trees, and open spaces remind us we’re part of something bigger and help restore our strength.
Take a moment to watch this video that explains PTSD and then spend time outdoors which can support healing from PTSD. Even a short walk or just sitting in nature can make a difference. Give yourself permission to get outside today, your mind and body will thank you.
Module 4: Maramatanga (Understanding)
Watch a video What causes addiction, and why is it so hard to treat?
Activity:
For tāne and tāne whaiora (men in recovery) who have survived sexual violence, gaining maramatanga is a powerful step toward healing.
Addictions often develop as a way to cope with the deep pain and trauma caused by abuse. They can numb the hurt, silence difficult memories, or help manage overwhelming emotions. But while addiction might provide temporary relief, it can also trap people in cycles that make healing harder.
Maramatanga invites you to look beneath the surface, to understand why addictions developed and how they connect to your experiences of trauma. It’s about shining a light on those hidden parts of your story, without blame or shame.
When you gain this insight, you start to see the patterns and triggers that keep you stuck. You begin to recognise your strengths, resilience, and the wairua (spirit) inside you that wants to heal. Maramatanga also opens the door to new ways of living, grounded in self-awareness, cultural identity, and connection to whānau and whenua (land). It’s a journey of reclaiming your mana and stepping into your own power beyond trauma and addiction.