L-R: Judy Matai’a (ProPa member), Seluvaia Havea (Unitec Top Nurse winner), Katerina Alapae (Unitec Top Nurse winner), and Viv Pole (Head of Pacific Health at ProCare)

Katerina Alapae

Family background
I was born and raised in Samoa and went to Samoa College. I gained university entry, but my late grandfather couldn’t afford my studies, so I stayed home and cared for him. I met my husband in Samoa, got married in Australia, and then we moved back to NZ in 2019. We have three beautiful children, which is my biggest motivation to do nursing. I started my nursing journey in 2021 after I had just given birth to my youngest daughter, juggling studying full time and also working.

Success/highlight of your studies
I am the first ever to graduate from university in my family. My motivation to do nursing came from being a mum to my three children, my late grandfather, and my nana, who is still in Samoa currently dealing with long-term sickness. Family is important to me as it is the foundation of my life. My journey has been tough, but I had support from both my family and my husband’s family. But most important is that my God never fails me (famuamua le Atua I mea uma).

What is your ideal career pathway?
I love my community, and I always love to serve my people. Caring for others is my passion. I’ve always wanted to have my own clinic as I did commerce back in college, and now graduating with a Bachelor of Nursing, I can link them together to have my own GP clinic. Otherwise, I’d like to work as a Nurse Practitioner in a GP clinic.

Words of encouragement for Pacific students
If you can dream it, you can achieve it. Don't be afraid to seek help and support - there are a lot of opportunities for us Pacific students, so use them. Always have a plan, and if you feel like giving up, always think back to where you started and remember that you are doing it for yourself not for others. If I can do it, so can you. "Ole Ala Ile pule ole tautua" meaning "the way through leadership is through service".

Anything else you wish to add
My achievements are dedicated to my dear papa, who passed away. I love you papa. And I'm grateful for the support of my husband, my children, my family, friends, church, and the community.

Seluvaia Havea

Family Background
I was born and raised in Tonga by my kind and humble father, Sione Finau Kaivaha of Fuamotu and Haatafu, and my late mother, Lepolo Esala Kaivaha of Fatumu, Popua, and Houma Vava'u. I also acknowledge my biological family – my late father, Tevita Fotofili Havea (RIP), from Lavengatonga, Tatakamotonga, and Leimatua, and my late mother, Ofa Fonua Sima (RIP), from Uiha and Pukotala Haapai.

Academic Journey and Inspirations
I migrated to New Zealand in 2004 without any qualifications and initially worked as a laundry assistant at rest homes, later becoming a caregiver. My former employer recognised my potential and encouraged me to pursue a career in nursing. I began my academic journey at MIT, completing Level 3 and 4 Health Foundation Studies. I then completed a Diploma in Pharmacy Technology and worked as a pharmacy technician for seven years. Later, I returned to study nursing, starting at AUT as a full-time student. Due to family commitments, I switched to part-time study and occasionally took semesters off. During my fifth year, I faced setbacks and thought my dream of becoming a nurse had ended. However, after reaching out to Unitec, I was informed that they could credit the papers I had already completed. With their support, I completed my nursing degree. I am incredibly grateful to Unitec's staff for their unwavering belief in me. Today, I proudly stand as a registered nurse.

Career Pathway
Upon receiving my registration, I was offered several job opportunities; however, I chose to stay closer to home to support my two daughters, who are also pursuing nursing careers. I recently started a role at The Fono, a Pasifika health provider in Auckland, where I work as a quit coach within the public health team. In the future, I hope to transition into a role with the medical team in the clinic.

Words of encouragement for Pacific Students
My journey has been full of challenges, and there were many times I felt like giving up. However, I stayed determined to complete my degree, and today I am proud to say I have succeeded. No matter how difficult the journey may seem, remember: Kia Kaha – you can do it.

Additional Thoughts
I am deeply grateful to the Unitec nursing team for their continuous support and faith in us, the 2024 students. I would also like to express my thanks to ProCare for their recognition and support.