Faaulu Iaeva Amitai hopes to strengthen commercial law studies in Samoa after attaining her Masters in Commercial Law from the University of Melbourne in Australia last week.

The 27-year-old is from Safaatoa-Tai Lefaga, Tanugamanono and Saanapu and is the daughter of Reverend Iaeva Amitai and Fa’aātuolo Amitai.

“It has always been a dream to pursue a master’s studies. Completing my Master of Commercial Law feels like a deeply personal and emotional milestone,” she said.

“It’s more than an academic achievement—it’s a testament to resilience, sacrifice, and the love and support of my family, my village and my tapuaiga. Achieving this from Australia’s number one university and law school adds even greater significance to this accomplishment.

“Knowing that I was able to excel in such a prestigious institution makes me incredibly grateful and reminds me that hard work and determination can open doors to extraordinary opportunities.”

This journey wasn’t easy, but every challenge made this moment even more meaningful. She is grateful for her parents, who taught her the value of hard work and faith.

A heartbreaking moment was when her grandmother, Sialataua Lauvi Fiti, passed away in the middle of one of her exams.

“Not being able to go home to be with my family or attend her funeral was incredibly painful, and it left me feeling a deep sense of loss and guilt,” said Faaulu.

“Balancing that grief while staying focused on my studies was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. On top of that, Homesickness was also a constant challenge.

“Being far from my family and missing important moments in their lives left me feeling isolated at times. Celebrations, milestones, and even simple daily routines were things I longed for. The distance often made me question whether I could keep going, but I reminded myself of why I started this journey and the sacrifices my family made to support me.”

Balancing my responsibilities as a lecturer, a student, and a daughter living far from home was overwhelming at times. She leaned on faith, family, and purpose to keep pushing forward.

“My father, a church minister, has taught me the power of faith, humility, and service. His unwavering dedication to helping others and his steadfast belief in the importance of doing what is right have shaped my values and my outlook on life,” she said.

“One of his favourite sayings, “E lei fausia Roma i se aso e tasi”—“Rome wasn’t built in one day”—resonated deeply throughout my studies. Whenever I faced challenges, this wisdom reminded me that great achievements require patience, perseverance, and dedication over time.

“My mother, with her strength, resilience, and nurturing heart, has shown me what it means to be selfless and hardworking. Their love and sacrifices have been the foundation of everything I have achieved.”

They inspire her to work hard, to stay grounded, and to always remember where she comes from. Every step she took was a way of honouring them and the values they instilled in her.

Her plans for the future are centred on making a meaningful impact in the community. She hopes to use her education to strengthen commercial law education in Samoa, especially at the National University of Samoa.

Furthering her education will always remain a priority. Wherever the next opportunity comes, Faaulu is determined to pursue it. She believes that personal and professional growth is a lifelong journey.

“I also hope to inspire more Samoans to aspire to and attend prestigious universities like The University of Melbourne, where there is currently less representation of Samoans. I want to show that our people are capable of excelling at the highest levels and that we, too, can thrive in these top institutions,” she said.

“By doing so, I hope to pave the way for others and encourage more of our community to dream big and pursue these incredible opportunities. Heartfelt thanks to the Australian Government in partnership with our Samoan Government through the Australia Awards Scholarship program for this opportunity.”