Marie Kaisa wiped away her tears as she approached the podium to accept a certificate destined for her brother Fa'amanu Kaisa at the Tesese Institute Graduation on Thursday.

Fa'amanu Kaisa was supposed to be among the graduates of Tesese Institute but God had other plans for him. He was called to rest just two weeks before he could graduate. 

According to family members, an illness got the better of the young man. They said Fa'amanu had been hoping for this day to arrive so he could attend and celebrate the important event.

For Marie, holding back the tears was impossible. Each step towards the podium made her recall her brother. His framed picture was placed in the front. 

"Fa'amanu was the second eldest of six siblings," she said.

“It breaks my heart to see others walking up and receiving their honours. It was hard not to be envious and a little angry knowing my brother was not amongst them. His loss is still very hard to take. 

“Our family is experiencing a range of emotions today because Fa'amanu isn't even present, yet we were still able to accept his certificate and the prize for his dedication. We know that he is watching us from above.”

It was also hard for Kaisa Lu'au and Fiona Kaisa. As parents they had been planning his graduation but that was cut short. According to Marie, the family was grateful that the school had honoured her brother's commitment and hard work.

Fa'amanu was from Samatau and had been undertaking studies in office administration and computer studies.