Families and supporters of Unitec’s graduands attending Pacific Graduation Celebration

 

Held at Te Noho Kotahitanga Marae and organised by Unitec’s Pacific Centre team, the event was attended by Executive Director Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, Deputy Chief Executive – Academic Prof Martin Carroll, Senior Leadership Team members, Heads of Schools, MAIA Marae team, Student Events, Student Council and Unitec kaimahi.

Unitec-MIT Executive Director Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiiga addresses Pacific Graduation Celebration

 

In his welcome address, Peseta praised the resilience and commitment of the graduands in persevering to complete their studies, despite the obstacles they’ve each faced along the way. These barriers were highlighted in the many inspiring stories and testimonies shared by the graduands as they were each were called up to the podium to receive their medals.

“Simply inspiring,” says Luka Crosbie, Interim Director Pacific Success for Unitec and MIT.

“The night was intimate and a celebration of our Pacific peoples and our faith and culture. Each graduand had a unique and special story, but they all had a few common threads.”

Faith-based journeys were a common theme for many and foundational to their success. This was echoed by the guest speaker Katalina Tautuiaki, who overcame numerous challenges while raising ten children, to complete her Bachelor of Engineering Technology – Civil at the end of 2024. She now works as a project manager for Auckland Transport.

Bachelor of Engineering – Civil graduand, Katalina Tautuiaki supported by family at Unitec’s Pacific Graduation Celebration, where she was the guest speaker on Thursday

 

“My faith is the cornerstone of my journey, providing strength and direction in every aspect of my personal and academic life,” Katalina explains.

“Through my faith, I learned to find a balance between my family and my studies, even during the most demanding times. It was undoubtedly challenging, but I embraced it wholeheartedly, as it was enriching.”

“To others who may face similar challenges, I encourage you to embrace the journey — every sacrifice, every hardship, and every triumph along the way is a step toward something more significant.”

The support and encouragement of family and the wrap-around academic and pastoral support provided by the wider Unitec whānau were also key factors in helping our Pacific ākonga navigate their student journeys. This was recognised by Peseta who acknowledged the role of kaiako and kaimahi in guiding our ākonga. It was through their efforts that Pacific ākonga felt a sense of belonging and place at Unitec.