YOUTH
“Our ancestors of the pacific would travel across the moana using the stars as a way of navigation, for our youth we must be that star for them, we must provide the same direction and hope for our youth to navigate to and from & where they want to go in life. Our youth, are finding their way, as way finders from the pacific”
Matt Max
AKONGOUE STUDENTS
Background: Hi, my name is Boscawen Tupou, I was born and raised here in New Zealand. One this I value about being Tongan is that we are big and strong.
Who inspires you and why? My dad is my biggest inspiration. He’s that one person that’s always keeping me moving and always motivating me.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 5 years I see myself serving in the Military
Why did you join Akongoue? I was given the opportunity to join Akongoue by my teacher who had signed me up. Throughout my time here, I have learned many things. One of which, is there are different diseases that can be carried from one plant to another. It is important for us to take good care of the plants to prevent them from catching any diseases that way the plant can produce enough product for us to have.
Who inspires you and why? My biggest inspiration in life is my parents. I know that no matter what I do they still love me. Although I know that most of the time I make bad decisions, they still lecture me and tell me what I should do better.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 5 years I see myself still making music and hopefully having a family of my own.
Why did you join the Akongoue Program? I joined the program because my dad has always wanted me to try it out and gain experience in how to provide for my family. I have learned a lot about Horticulture such as planting and harvesting kumara.
Background: Hi, my name is Samuel Unaloto Malupo. I was born and raised here in New Zealand. I took part in the Horticulture program run by Tongan Youth Trust and NZ Sports Turf Institute.
What is one thing you value about your culture?
One thing I value about my culture is how prideful my family is coming from a small island to a new country in hopes of finding a new and better future for us kids.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
In 5 years’ time, I see myself working and giving back to my family.
Why did you join the Akongoue program?
I joined Akongoue because I knew this was the first year for this program to launch and I wanted to experience horticulture and what it’s about. During my time, I’ve actually learned a lot about horticulture from insects to seeds and planting – to the effect on plants across the world in the plants we have here in New Zealand.
Background: Malo ‘e lelei, my name is Tapu Veainu. I was born and raised here in New Zealand in the city of Christchurch which is located on the South Island.
Who inspires you and why?
My biggest inspiration is my mum because of the Job that she does. She works as a nurse taking care of others. Although we barely see her most of the time as she’s working, I know for sure her hard work is to support us kids.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
In 5 years I see myself working doing carpentry building and playing rugby.
Why did you join the Akongoue program?
I joined Akongoue because of the practical side of it getting to go into plantations and such. I believe I learn better by doing practical things.
What is one thing you value about being Tongan?
One thing I value about being Tongan is the food because there is no other tasty food compared to how we Tongans make it.
Background: Talofa lava, my name is Antonio Ulugia, born and raised here in New Zealand. I am currently attending Aorere college and what I value about my culture is the connection my people have with our culture as well as our support and pride.
Favorite bible verse, prayer, or quote?
“Tough times don’t last, just tough people”
Who inspires you and why?
My dad is my biggest inspiration because he supports and motivates me throughout my tough times.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years I see myself pursuing rugby in Australia
Why did you join Akongoue?
I joined Akongoue because my friends had heard of the program and we were all willing to join together.
Background: Malo ‘e lelei my name is Kaume’afafale Veainu but I’m known as Fale. The meaning behind my name is “To never give up”. I was born in Christchurch but my family and I decided to move to Auckland.
Who inspires you and why?
My biggest inspiration is self-motivation. I believe that only you can make the decision and the choices that will define your future.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years, I see myself working in the horticulture sector.
Why did you join Akongoue?
I joined the Akongoue program because of the credits, but I have learned the importance of growing crops and clipping tomatoes. I have also enjoyed camp because it has allowed me to bond with other students.