Standing on ancestral soil and dressed in traditional garments, we channel their mana when we dance.

But in a modern world with contemporary influences, how do we keep true to their movements and continue to tell their stories?

You'll hear about the Fijian Meke from Simione Sevudredre and the sacred Palauan women's dance from Ikelau Misech. Plus, Sandy Sur and his aunty Cicilia Lolomle from Vanuatu's Banks Islands share how their practice of women's water dancing preserves their heritage in a fun way.

Culture Compass was produced by Deadset Studios for ABC Radio Australia.