As one journey ends another begins, a maxim that will now guide the Avele College Dux and her fellow classmates as they look to the next chapter of their academic journey.

For Matagiituafanua Freda Samoa, it was an emotional day for her, especially when she was named the top student in the graduating class of 2023. An achievement that she admits she worked hard for. 

Fighting to hold back tears, the 17-year-old immediately credited her success to God, claiming that she would not have made it this far if it wasn't for his love, guidance and mercy. 

"I know God made this possible for me and I owe it to him," Ms. Samoa said. "Not only did I put my faith in him.

"But I know for a fact that my parents and my family's ongoing prayers have been answered today and all I can say is that I am very grateful and humble.

"I dedicate this milestone to everyone who has contributed to my academic journey over the years. God knows how thankful and grateful I am for all the love, support and encouragement."

The youngest daughter of Matagi Pili and Va'agi Samoa aspires to be an auditor for the Government of Samoa. 

"I major in accounting and economics and I am quite ready for what lies ahead for me. I hope to become an auditor in the future and I will work really hard to achieve my goal."

Her final year at Avele College wasn't easy as she came second in her class after the mid-year examinations and she was challenged by her father, Va'agi and her older sister to work hard so she could reach the pinnacle of academic excellence. 

"There was a lot of pressure to maintain my ranking from last year. I came first in class last year and so when I came second after our mid-year, there was a lot of pressure for me to get back on top. 

"It wasn't easy; but when you have a strong support system made up of people who believe that you can do and achieve anything in life, everything becomes easy. 

"That was the case for me, and I am really grateful to have such a supportive family. My father was my main inspiration. He believed in me even when I doubted myself and pushed me to work hard and do my best. 

"With the help of my sister, although she can be a headache sometimes, and my aunties and uncles, I was able to get the results we all expected. 

"As I said earlier, I couldn't have achieved this without their encouragement, the push and the support."

In saying that, Ms Samoa then took the time to acknowledge her relatives who have been there for her right from the start. She also made special mention of her spiritual parents, Reverend Semikueva and Vesia of the Congregational Christian Church Samoa parish at Moata'a and her uncle Reverend Falaniko and Teleolealofa Sio for their prayers. 

"I would also like to thank my aunty Ualolo and all of my families who have helped me this year."

So what's next for the aspiring Auditor? "The aim is to continue to strive for the best and do well. It's such a nice feeling knowing that you have made your parents and family proud of your achievements. 

"It's our way of paying them back for all the sacrifices and love they've shown us so what's next for me is to work hard towards securing a scholarship to study overseas next year.

"To my family, I hope I made you proud and I know with their unwavering support and prayers, I will also succeed in the next chapter of my academic journey. But I will leave everything in God's hands."

Ms. Samoa acknowledged and paid tribute to the hard-working teachers of Avele College for their contribution to her academic success.