The Alofi-o-Taoa College dux of the 2022 graduating class has dedicated her success to her spiritual parents of the Congregational Christian Church Samoa parish at Faletagaloa Safune.

Reverend Vaueli and Rosita Sanerivi are the spiritual parents of 16-year-old Mercy Ilaisa Faimata, who was also the college's head girl this year and collecting 10 awards while also topping the Year 13 commerce category.

She is the second-eldest daughter of Tiatia Faimata Taulauniu and Lufi Faimata's eight children.

Her eldest sister, Pamela Gaulua Faimata was also Alofi-o-Taoa College head girl and dux last year. 

Hailing from the villages of Fagae'e, Gataivai and Faletagaloa Safune, Ms. Faitama said she is hoping to pursue her passion for accounting and economics, though her mother's profession as an educator is not far from her mind. 

Speaking about her success, the bubbly teen said it hasn't been an easy journey, having to juggle her studies, her duties as the school's head prefect, and her obligations at home and within her community. 

However, she is a true-believer in the old saying that hard work pays off. 

"If you set your heart on something and believe with all your heart that you can do it, you can achieve great things," Ms. Faimata said.

While acknowledging the never-ending support and prayers of her spiritual parents, Ms. Faimata truly believe in the saying that "it takes a village to raise a child."

The dux then used the opportunity to acknowledge her "support system" and the people who have inspired her to strive for the best in life. 

"This is also for my hardworking parents," Ms. Faimata. "They have been my strength and main provider and I would not be where I am today if it weren't for their love and support. 

"I can never thank them enough for believing in me and for encouraging and challenging me to punch above my weight and that the sky's the limit. 

"I honestly would not have achieved this if it weren't for them. This is just a token of appreciation for all their hard work and what they have done for me and my siblings.

"I know this will never be enough to repay how much they have spent on us and the time and effort that went into making sure that we have whatever we need every day, but I hope they are proud of our achievement."

Ms. Faimata also made special mention of her maternal grandparents, Pa'o Poe Mamea and Ilaisa Mamea for their love and ongoing prayers. 

"They are my prayer warriors and their fasting and prayers is why I have made it this far."

While Ms. Faimata said she is dreading having to leave Savai'i and her family to attend university next year, the 16-year-old said she is ready for what lies ahead of her. 

"It's part of life," she said. "But I am excited and ready for the next chapter of my academic life. 

"With God at the forefront and my family and village backing me up, I am ready for whatever is next for me."

Ms. Faimata topped English, Samoan, Mathematics, Economics, Accounting and Computer Studies for the Year 13 Level. 

She was given awards for being the top commerce student, most public spirited student, best all rounder, first in Year 13 level and the dux for Year 13 this year.