An Oamaru nursing student’s dedication to her studies and commitment to her community has been recognised with the Supreme Award at the Ara Institute of Canterbury’s end-of-year Pacific Achievement Awards.

Uinita (Nita) Tapa’atoutai, a second-year nursing student and mother of five, received the accolade at a gala event in Christchurch last Thursday.

Tapa’atoutai attributed her success to the support of her community, saying, “This win is not bestowed onto me alone, as it was not an individual success but success of a collective. I dedicate this achievement to my Pacific community and my wider communities, families and whānau.”

Her academic journey began in 2022 with a Bachelor of Applied Management from Otago Polytechnic.

However, she soon found her calling in nursing, enrolling in Ara’s Level 4 Pre Health course in Timaru before advancing to the Bachelor of Nursing programme, now completing her second year.

“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 enhanced my motivation to pursue a career in the nursing profession. Looking at our Pacific statistics, I want to work to be among those who make a positive impact on people’s lives and improve health outcomes for Aotearoa.”

Despite the challenges of daily commutes from Oamaru to Ara’s Timaru campus, Tapa’atoutai has excelled in her studies. She also balances her education with part-time work at Oamaru Hospital, Tongan translation support, assisting with heart health checks, and encouraging Pacific students to pursue healthcare careers.

Ara Director of Pacific Achievement, Sua Tauti said “Her resilience, dedication, and community spirit are truly admirable. Despite numerous challenges, Uinita has shown unwavering commitment and successfully completed year two.”

Tapa’atoutai’s contributions to the community, coupled with her academic achievements, made her the standout among five finalists for the Supreme Award.

Tapa’atoutai embodies Pacific values, including Tautua (Service), Vanua (Connection to Land and Community), and Fakaalofa (Compassion and Love). These principles guide her mission to give back to her community.

“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, I must go through the worst to get to the best,” she said. “As a Tongan woman, I have responsibilities to look after and give my utmost for my family, village, and community and all those who supported me throughout my journey.”

Her list of qualifications is extensive, including a Bachelor of Applied Management from Otago Polytechnic, a Certificate of Proficiency in Pacific Nutrition from Auckland University, and Ara’s Level 4 Pre Health online.

She was also a recipient of a Ministry for Pacific Peoples funding grant in 2023.

Encouraging others, Tapa’atoutai said, “Learning is a never-ending process. Whatever your dream and your passion, you can make it 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.”