The first recordings of Samoan's living in Aotearoa were in the 1940s. The 1950-1960s saw the largest numbers in Samoan migration to Aotearoa. Many Samoan families have called Aotearoa their home for generations with more than 60% of Samoan's being born in Aotearoa (Statistics New Zealand 2018). The Samoan community is well established in Aotearoa. However, Samoan's still feature negatively in the statistics indicative of a good quality of life (Ministry of Health, 2015). Using a Talanoa methodology, the research investigates protocols that contribute to successful engagement between Samoan's and Social Workers. The overarching question for the research is: ‘What are the protocols for successful engagement between Samoan āiga /communities and Social Workers?’. The research does assume that there is a ‘one size fits all’ approach but identifies approaches that increase the likelihood of successful engagement. This research found that for Social Workers to support positive change in Samoan communities, they need an understanding of Samoan cultural values. Understanding Samoan values and principles engages the Samoan fatu/heart of both the Consumer and Practitioner. A change of mind is a good starting point to support change. However, a change of heart inspires enduring, sustainable change.