Deano Manga
Deano Manga had no intention of attending university until he witnessed how doctors positively impacted patients' lives.
I didn't intend to go to university when I was at school. It wasn't until I started working at a psychiatric unit in a hospital aged 18, that I realised I had a passion for healthcare.
"While completing a nursing degree at MIT, I was exposed to some very influential doctors who encouraged me in my decision to pursue medicine. I saw first-hand the influence that doctors, especially Māori doctors, have on patients' lives. Pursuing this career was the perfect mix of working with people while also challenging myself academically.
"While born in Auckland, I moved up to Ahipara for primary school and returned to Auckland for primary school and returned to Auckland for secondary school. I had not completed sciences or other required subjects for the career path I want to follow, and so completing Hikitia Te Ora - Certificate in Health Sciences has allowed me to pursue Medicine, which otherwise wouldn't have been possible. The programme offers such a great foundation for you to explore your interest in health sciences in a supportive and facilitative environment.
"MAPAS really has been beneficial for me in many ways. Not only was there continued support through staff and fellow students in my academic studies, I also made friends both inside and outside the classroom. MAPAS also has allowed me to strengthen my cultural connections while on my academic pathway, which I see as extremely important given the need for Māori doctors in Aotearoa."