Lay summary
The first research that explores lived experience of Tongan with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) using a combined Talanoa and Hermeneutic phenomenology approach by a Tongan for, and with Tongan people. This research makes a significant contribution to health delivery services, providing spaces for participants to tell their stories. An unstructured approach that allow Tongans with T2DM to share their stories, a framework that is appropriate for diabetes management and food practices. It allows non-Tongan's diabetes service provider to use talanoa-like approach in diabetes dietary management for their families, church and community to plan, act and reflect on diabetes management.