'Believe in yourself': Tongan nursing student scoops top honours

A top student at Ara Institute of Canterbury, Uinita (Nita) Tapa'atoutai, says one must endure difficulties to achieve greatness.

The second-year nursing student and mother of five received the Supreme Award at Ara's end-of-year Pacific Achievement Awards during a gala event in Christchurch last week.

A programme director says Tapa'atoutai's resilience, community leadership, and commitment to healthcare education embody Pacific values, as seen from Oamaru to Ara.

Tapa'atoutai emphasised the collective nature of her success, saying, "This win is not bestowed upon me alone. It is not an individual success but a success of a collective.

"I dedicate this achievement to my Pacific community, wider communities, families, and whānau."

She began her academic journey in 2022, graduating with a Bachelor of Applied Management from Otago Polytechnic before discovering her true calling in nursing.

She started her Level 4 Pre-Health studies at Ara Timaru and is now completing her second year in the Bachelor of Nursing programme.

"During my years at Tonga High School, I was supported to grow my knowledge and enhance my love for science," she said.

"My life experiences have motivated me to pursue a career in nursing.

"Looking at our Pacific statistics, I want to work among those who make a positive impact on people's lives and improve health outcomes for Aotearoa."

Sua Tauti, the Director of Pacific Achievement at Ara, praised Tapa'atoutai's unwavering commitment.

"Despite numerous challenges, including long daily commutes from Oamaru to the Ara Timaru Campus, Uinita has shown exceptional dedication and successfully completed her second year."

In addition to her studies, Tapa'atoutai actively supports Pacific community organisations in Oamaru, works part-time at the local hospital, provides Tongan translation services, assists with heart health checks, and encourages Pacific students to pursue careers in healthcare.

Her significant contributions to her studies and the community earned her the Supreme Award among five finalists.

"Her resilience, dedication, and community spirit are truly admirable," Tauti said.

Tapa'atoutai expressed her gratitude, saying, "Learning is a never-ending process. Whatever your dream and passion are, you can make them possible.

"Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle. Stay motivated and positive."

In 2023, Tapa'atoutai received a funding grant from the Ministry for Pacific Peoples.

Ara said her dedication to her studies has resulted in an impressive list of qualifications: a Level Three Health and Wellbeing Community Service qualification, a Level Four Community Facilitation apprenticeship through Careerforce, a Bachelor of Applied Management from Otago Polytechnic, a Certificate of Proficiency in Pacific Nutrition from Auckland University online, and Ara’s Level Four Pre-Health online programme, which granted her entry to Ara’s Bachelor of Nursing course.

The Ara Pacific Supreme Award showcases Pacific values, including Tautua (Service), Vanua (Connection to Land and Community), and Fakaalofa (Compassion and Love), all of which Tapa'atoutai has exemplified, Ara said in a statement.

While overwhelmed to receive the award, Tapa'atoutai noted that it only motivated her to continue her efforts.

"I want to work to give back to my village, my community, and my family.

"Every day is a challenge, but I always remind myself that I must go through the worst to get to the best.

"As a Tongan woman, I have responsibilities to care for and give my utmost for my family, village, community, and all those who supported me throughout my journey."