Tālofa lava, mālō e lelei, bula vinaka, and Pacific greetings to you all! 

My name is Melody, and I am currently a third-year student in the Bachelor of Design (Photography), looking to put myself forward as a candidate for the Pasifika Student Representative for Pukeahu/Wellington Campus.  

In my early childhood, much of my upbringing was grounded in the values of Fa’asamoa. I grew up with fa’aaloalo (respect), tautua (service), and alofa (love) shaping my everyday life. Growing up in Manurewa, South Auckland, I hold much love and pride toward the Pasifika communities of Aotearoa and understand deeply how often the voices of Tangata Whenua and Tangata Moana remain unheard and undervalued.  

During my time as a Pasifika Student Representative, I wish to: 

• Uplift Pasifika voices and allow our stories and the advocacy of our communities to be cultivated across our campus. 
• Build connections within the Pasifika communities of Pekeahu and strengthen relations within our Tangata Whenua & Tangata Tiriti brothers and sisters. 
• Foster connection within the Pasifika community of Pekeahu and be a person of trust, understanding, and guidance to rely on within our cohort. 

I hope to serve our communities well during my term!