Our Pasifika Celebration Evening was a true celebration of our community, bringing together award recipients and their aiga in an atmosphere filled with pride, joy, and genuine Pasifika warmth.

The evening honoured our Pasifika students' achievements across academics, sports, and cultural activities; a celebration not just of their success, but of the strength, perseverance, and resilience they demonstrated throughout the year. It was a powerful reminder of what our students can achieve when supported by their families and community.

The Year 13 Special Awards included:

• Fa’amoemoefou (Moe) Togia Vaega To’a - Pasifika Profile Award 
• Santokh Mekuri - Pasifika Service to School Award
• Taipua Kipa - Arts and Cultural Award
• Blessing Moevao - Komiti Pasifika Choice Manawanui Award
• Amelia Savieti - Komiti Pasifika Choice Tautua Award
• Sosefina Ielemia - Top Pasifika Academic Award
• Jaden Lauvale - Pasifika Sportsperson of the Year Award

A special highlight of the evening was recognising our Nu'u Toa "Talanoa Ako" Parent Award winners - Pasifika parents who demonstrated extraordinary commitment to their children's education by actively participating in NCEA, literacy, and numeracy workshops throughout the year. Congratulations to Ainette Esati, Mileta Ielemia, Solomona Ielemia, Olesa Magalogo and Ma'amu Saipele. Meitaki ma'ata, fa'afetai lava, faakaue lahi, malo lava for walking this journey alongside your children, for your time, your support, and your unwavering belief in the power of education. 

To each of our award winners and to all our Pasifika students, your determination, resilience, and spirit are a constant source of pride. You are not just students at Waitākere College; you are the heartbeat of our Pasifika community, and you carry the hopes and dreams of your aiga with grace and strength.

To our graduating class of 83 Year 13 Pasifika students: as you step forward into your futures, know that you carry with you the blessings of your aiga, the pride of your community, and the unwavering support of your Waitākere whānau. Pursue your dreams with passion and courage. Remember the mafana, the warmth and belonging that have surrounded you here, and carry that spirit of fealofani wherever you go. 

You are our NU’U TOA, our village of warriors and we are so very proud of you all. 

Fa'afetai lava. Mālō 'aupito. Meitaki ma'ata. Faakaue lahi.