Toloa Secondary Scholar Hugo Liuvaie (pictured) views the Toloa Fund as a pathway to fulfilling his aspirations in the sciences, while enabling him to stay true to his Pacific culture and values.
The Year 11 student at Palmerston North Boys High School is of Niuean descent and received a Toloa Secondary Scholarship to assist him with his studies in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics).
This is first year high school students have been offered scholarships consisting of $2000 to cover fees and a wellbeing support programme, as part of the Toloa Fund which encourages Pacific people to engage and connect with STEAM studies and careers.
Hugo says he has personally seen how Toloa scholarships can help unlock the full potential of Pacific people in Aotearoa.
“I feel most Pacific people are shy to express their ideas, especially towards those who are not Pacific.
“Being surrounded by other active students in their community raises their confidence and encourages them to convey their ideas to society.”
He adds the scholarship enabled him to purchase a new laptop, as his old one was unusable.
It means he can complete his work efficiently.
“Another impact the scholarship has had on me, is how I view the wellbeing of others.
“Before, I would have disregarded peoples’ emotions and actions but after all the wellbeing workshops which are part of the scholarship package, I have a greater understanding of what my fellow Pasifika peers may be going through.”
Following high school, Hugo wants to take on a Bachelor of Health Science, at the University of Otago.
“I have no idea what type of doctor I want to be but I'll decide later, and if studies do not go well, then my back-up is getting into the building industry.
“Once I get a job, my main goal is to help out back in Niue and support my parents.”
The Toloa Fund has opened Hugo’s eyes to what assistance is available for Pacific people, as well as where there is a need for Pacific people in the workforce, he says.
“Having Pacific people involved with STEAM enables our people to become creatives and innovators, who can solve problems for their own people.”
Applications for the 2023 Toloa Tertiary and Secondary School Scholarships are opening soon.
Stay updated by visiting the MPP website.