Where it all started

Vaka Tara began as a small creative studio in Fiji, born from a desire to tell stories that felt real - stories of people, place, and purpose. What started as Pate Creatives, capturing weddings and local brands, evolved into Vaka Tara Co: a name that reflects growth, connection, and creation.


Rooted in the Pacific and inspired by movement, Vaka Tara embodies the journey of making with meaning. Like the vaka, a vessel that carries culture and story through oceans, we move forward with intention, guided by the belief that creativity can build bridges, shape identity, and honour where we come from.





















Where it all started

Vaka Tara began as a small creative studio in Fiji, born from a desire to tell stories that felt real - stories of people, place, and purpose. What started as Pate Creatives, capturing weddings and local brands, evolved into Vaka Tara Co: a name that reflects growth, connection, and creation.


Rooted in the Pacific and inspired by movement, Vaka Tara embodies the journey of making with meaning. Like the vaka, a vessel that carries culture and story through oceans, we move forward with intention, guided by the belief that creativity can build bridges, shape identity, and honour where we come from.





















A little bit about our Founder and Creative Director

Alipate Laveti, Founder & Creative Director

Born in Savusavu with roots in Ono-i-Lau, Pate is a Fijian creative whose work is grounded in Pacific identity and storytelling. With over a decade in photography, filmmaking, and branding, he has helped shape Fiji’s digital voice and creative landscape. As Founder and Creative Director of Vaka Tara Collective, he leads a team creating authentic, story-driven content that moves with purpose, creates with meaning, and connects with heart.

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Our Values and Identity

Purpose.
Meaning.
Heart.
Authenticity & Culture
Collaboration & Community
Creativity With Responsibility
Locally Led, Globally Capable

These three principles form the foundation of the Vaka Tara triangle, a symbol deeply embedded in our brand identity. Found across traditional masi designs, the triangle embodies direction, balance, and connection — land, people, and purpose.

We honour Fijian and Pacific storytelling, ensuring every project is culturally grounded, respectfully produced, and aligned with the communities it represents.

Our collective model is built on shared expertise, fair pay, mentorship, and opportunities for emerging creatives, nurturing Fiji’s next generation of storytellers.

We believe creativity is a service to people. Guided by our values, we dedicate space each year to supporting locally led initiatives — from grassroots organisations to family businesses and community-focused charities — contributing to work that strengthens connection and uplifts our vanua.

We challenge the reliance on overseas firms by offering Fiji-made creative services that match international quality while remaining deeply rooted in place, culture, and community.