Pacific student stories 2022

Cook Islands. Rarotonga, Manihiki; and Anglo-Indian
Vaka Te Au o Tonga (Nikao, Rarotonga), Tukao and Tauhunu (Manihiki)
Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering (Honours) Conjoint
Year 4

“I always knew that I would make it to the University of Auckland. I grew up in a super supportive family – my mum, my older brother and my sister. They have been teaching and supporting me my whole life. I think they were more excited than I was when I got into Engineering and Law. My mum had instilled in me from a young age ‘Ka tae koe ki te ra turanga.’ That means ‘You will reach that level.’ And naturally, as a kid, you believe it – so here I am.
“I have been incredibly blessed while here at the University. I was awarded the University of Auckland Jubilee Scholarship, which provided me with financial assistance over the last three years. I was also fortunate enough to have a First Foundation scholarship, which provided me with paid work experience, financial assistance and a mentor, as well continued pastoral support. I have also received a lot of support from student associations such as the South Pacific Indigenous Engineering Students (SPIES) and the Pacific Island Law Students Association (PILSA). Both have become my family away from home.
“It doesn’t mean the journey has been easy, though. If it wasn’t for the Tuākana programme in my first year of Engineering and the continuous support I receive from the Peer Assisted Study Systems (PASS) programme at Law School, I don’t think I’d be achieving as I have over the last few years. I have definitely taken advantage of the support network that has been put in place for Māori and Pacific students here at Auckland.
“Being here at the University has also made me appreciate my culture more and develop my sense of cultural identity. It has helped me realise the potential in my cultural values and the fact that I can bring that to the table – whether it’s through food or ideas!
“I hope one day I will be able to pass on what I have learnt and help others – in the way that others here have helped me.”
Ta te tangata e ruru ra, tana rai ia e kokoti.
As you sow, so shall you reap.
 

Niuean. Tuapa and Avatele
Bachelor of Science majoring in Biological Sciences
Year 3

“Growing up on the small island of Niue instilled in me the importance of God and family – the very essence of my support system throughout this rollercoaster university ride.
“I chose to study at the University of Auckland not only because it’s a world-ranked university but also because it’s located in a city that’s rich in Pacific culture and diversity.
“One of the important aspects of a successful and enjoyable university journey is to embrace our minds, abilities and flaws – to be reminded that it is okay to compliment yourself every day, recognise your flaws and learn how to overcome each fear you have. In my first year at university, I was fortunate to be a part of ‘Leadership through Learning’. The programme helped me to grow as a person through nurturing my body and mind because a successful journey starts from within.
“In my 22 years, I’ve been constantly reminded about what education can do, how I can use it to better myself, my family, and community – and how it will lead me to bigger and greater things in life.
“I leave you with the words of my Dad.”
Ko e tau monuina hā hā ke he haau a tau aloalo lima.
Blessings are in the palm of your hands.
Fakaaue lahi.
 

Samoan. Saleimoa, Faleasi’u
Graduate: Bachelor of Architectural Studies
Student: Master of Architecture (Professional)

“My life mission is to serve and inspire by designing great buildings. Growing up, I was always encouraged to achieve my best. A key factor in choosing the University of Auckland was its reputation in Architecture. For me, Architecture is the art of designing buildings with empathy, where there’s not only understanding about the forces of nature but also acknowledgement of specific lifestyles, peoples and cultures. In the future I look to give back to my homeland and my culture, creating a positive impact within the built environment of the Pacific.
“The Tuākana support system has played a significant role in my growth. Currently I am a Tuākana mentor. I look to create safe and encouraging environments, reciprocating all the effort poured into me by my mentors when I transitioned into the tertiary world.
“Now more than ever Architecture needs the creative minds and values of Pacific culture. Values of fa’aaloalo (respect), tautua (service), and alofa (love) are necessities for the built environments in this ever-changing world. Studying at the University of Auckland has been valuable because the different experiences, the range of opportunities, and especially the support provided get me steps closer to my mission. Through designing great buildings, with hard work and service, I strive to give back to my ancestors, my family and my culture.”
 

Samoan.
Mother: Taufusi, Sa’anapu
Father: Leulumoega, Faleū Manono
Graduate: Bachelor of Health Sciences
Student: Bachelor of Laws
Year 3

“I am a New Zealand born Samoan, who was raised and schooled in Manurewa, South Auckland. I chose to study at the University of Auckland as I originally wanted to pursue a career in pharmacy after being in James Cook High School’s Health Sciences Academy.
“After completing my first (and most challenging) semester of university, I realised that I was not destined for pharmacy. I still had a great passion to serve our Pacific community as I had witnessed the health inequities that Pacific people face. This encouraged me to pursue a Bachelor of Laws alongside my Bachelor of Health Sciences because how will the system reflect the needs of the Pacific population, if we are inadequately represented when making vital decisions?
“I am also a co-founder of the Auckland Pasifika Health Initiative (APHI). This initiative supports all Pacific students undertaking any health-related degree within the University and helps them network with professional health organisations.
“I believe my culture and identity have been strong assets throughout my university journey. I received a Vice Chancellor’s award for Top Pacific Scholars. This has led to many opportunities, such as being a Pasifika ambassador for those coming behind me. I have also been able to build strong relationships and networks within the University, which has given me a sense of belonging.
“There is so much assistance available to help Pacific students succeed. It definitely eases our university journeys. The Pacific Academic Support Strategies (PASS) and the Māori and Pacific Admission Scheme (MAPAS) have enabled me to graduate with a Bachelor of Health Sciences and be accepted into Auckland Law School. I would not be where I am without the continuous support of not only my faith, family and friends, but most importantly our Pacific community at the University.”
O le tele o sulu e maua ai figota, e mama se avega pe a ta amo fa’atasi.
My strength does not come from me alone but from many.

Samoan.
Mother: Matautu lefaga, Lotofaga and Vavau
Law and Arts
Year 2

“I started my first year studying for a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Geography and Pacific studies. I picked up Law in my second year. I chose to study at the University of Auckland primarily because of its reputation. I am thoroughly enjoying my studies because of the substantial, thought-provoking knowledge I am gaining on a weekly basis.
“University comes with a considerable workload, but I feel supported by the various programmes in place that offer extra support for Pasifika students. Prior to my degree studies, I was part of the UniBound programme for Māori and Pacific Island School leavers. UniBound epitomises the spirit of communal success via team-focused activities, and it equips us with important academic skills like critical thinking and effective reading.
“I am currently part of Tuākana Arts and Science. This is a programme for Māori and Pacific students that offers extra workshops in their respective subjects. I am also part of the Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) mentoring programme, a scheme for Māori and Pacific students.
“Being a Pacific person at the University of Auckland contributes significantly to my success. I’ve gained a substantial amount of knowledge on the history of Pacific people in New Zealand and the complications they faced in attaining simple livelihoods. I also have a fuller understanding of the contemporary issues facing Pacific peoples but more so the potential that is emerging in response to the various issues. Being a Pacific person in such a big institution has been and can be intimidating but the overwhelming support from other Pacific students and mentors definitely helps erode the nerves.
“In Samoa, there is a profound proverb that’s important to remember because university is a place where mistakes will be made. You’re on a journey, with all its ups and downs.”
E poto le tautai ae se lana atu I ama.
No matter how skillful or intelligent you are, mistakes are inevitable.

Samoan. Salelesi, Satapuala
Graduate: Bachelor of Arts majoring in Sociology and Criminology.
Student: BA (Honours) majoring in Sociology.

“Raised in South Auckland and a former student of Mangere College, I was determined to pursue the different pathways and support for students who choose to excel in education. I have come to the conclusion that it is not about the school that someone attends but purely about the individual themselves.
“The University of Auckland has always been the right avenue for my chosen field of study as it is the top university in New Zealand. The University has opened my eyes to the various opportunities and the strong support structures offered to Pacific peoples. This consists of academic and pastoral care groups, such as Tuākana and Manaaki, that I have immersed myself in. These groups have provided a safe and reciprocal learning environment, enabling me to grow academically in many areas of the University.
“The UniBound programme played a vital part in my transition from school to the University of Auckland. UniBound helped me build strong networks with likeminded people across many faculties. And I’ve formed great friendships that I treasure to this day. I have gained a lot of knowledge and experience studying here and I recommend this University to my Pacific peers who are looking at furthering their studies.
“Alongside this, I am a recipient of the University of Auckland Academic Potential Scholarship, as well as the Ralph and Eve Seelye scholarship.”
Ua e fa’amaoni i nai mea itiiti, ou te tofia oe e pule i mea e tele. Mataio 25:23
You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Matthew 25:23

Samoan. Salelesi, Satapuala
Graduate: Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours)/Bachelor of Arts (in Pacific Studies and Theology and Religious Studies) Conjoint
Student: Master of Fine Arts

“I have never been more proud to be a Pacific individual undertaking study at the top university in New Zealand. Being a Pacific person at the University gives me a sense of pride, knowing that I not only represent myself, but my aiga, my village, my ekalesia and my Pacific peers.
“Transitioning from a low decile secondary school in South of Auckland (Mangere College) was not at all easy. South Auckland is populated with Oceanic residents so the environment to me was familiar. It gave me a homely and connected feeling. Entering the University was a complete shock. The atmosphere was different and to be quite frank, it was crazy! But with the right support, and the strong outreach of Pacific people in various organisations and programmes, settling in was smooth.
“As I near the end of my Fine Arts degree, I reflect on the many great things that I have been part of within the University. The experiences have strengthened my networks and relationships. I was humbled to be selected as an ambassador to represent the University. I get the opportunity to participate in numerous events. It’s rewarding to serve our Pacific people. I am an active student of the Tuākana cohort in Elam School of Fine Arts – a pocket-sized community of Oceanic students pushing for creative perspectives purely from Oceanic people for Oceanic people. I have been involved in different exhibitions where I get to showcase publicly my creative practice. Foremost among them, I received the Alumni scholarship and Denise Gerard scholarship.
“My chosen conjoint degrees are complementary. The indigenous knowledge and issues of Oceania shared in Pacific studies enhance my practice in photography and sculpture within Fine Arts, so it’s a win-win situation that continues to captivate me. Last but not least, nothing is of course possible without the guidance of our heavenly father who makes the impossible possible. Vi’ia le Atua.”
“E mativa le ua galue ma le lima vaivai; a o e lima malosi e mauoa i latou.” Fa’ataoto 10:4
“Lazy hands make for poverty; but diligent hands bring wealth.” Proverbs 10:4

Niuean. Tuapa and Avatele
Student: Bachelor of Health Sciences

"Fakalofa lahi atu and warm greetings. I hail from the beautiful island of Niue, where I was raised until moving to New Zealand for education opportunities. I chose to study at the University of Auckland because of the quality education and the support that the University provides, especially for students of Pacific descent. Although the transition from high school to university was hard, I was well supported by various Pacific-centred services such as Tuākana and the Māori and Pacific Admission Scheme (MAPAS).
“I have had the chance to attend wanangas, tutorials, cultural events and many other services that provided opportunities to connect with many others who are on the same journey as me. I was fortunate to gain a University of Auckland Pasifika Scholarship which allowed me the opportunity to stay in the halls of residence and immerse myself in student life. I became confident and independent as I participated in various activities, including public speaking events.
“I am a passionate advocate for Pacific people and am aiming to work in the health sector, with a focus on improving Pacific health. The disadvantages and inequities that we face as a Pacific community are what I aim to eliminate in my future endeavours. My time at the University of Auckland has shaped me into the confident Pacific woman I am today.
“My Niuean culture has instilled the values I need to remain rooted in my identity and keep grounded throughout my journey at university. Taofi mau e fakalofa, I hold onto love, in everything that I do in life, including my studies. I aim to use all that I have to serve others.”