Samoan software engineer Namulau'ulu Nu’uali’i Eteroa Lafaele has been named this year’s Young New Zealander of the Year.

Namulau'ulu Nu'ualii Eteroa Lafaele's journey from Cannons Creek to global recognition is inspiring and impactful. Her work with Fibre Fale is making a huge difference in increasing Pacific representation in tech, and being named Young New Zealander of the Year is a testament to her dedication.

"I actually can’t comprehend what just happened. It’s a humbling experience and I’m really blessed to not only represent my communities but those who are trying to build a greater future for themselves," she said upon receiving her award.

Namulauulu was born and raised in Cannons Creek, Porirua, she is the co-founder of Fibre Fale, aimed at increasing Pacific representation in the tech industry. The award criteria include overall inspiration, proven impact, and purpose.

The judging panel for the Young New Zealander of the Year award says Lafaele is a globally recognised Sāmoan leader who is forging new pathways to bridge the digital divide for Pacific communities in New Zealand. Her advice is powerful, embracing identity and pushing forward with confidence.

"I went to all the schools, did all the homework clubs, I was in ESOL, all goods. It’s great to be bi-lingual. But overall, always be proud of who you are and always shine like a diamond."

Namulauulu joins a distinguished list of past winners, including Fijian activist Shaneel Lal and Sāmoan choreographer Parris Goebel. Her efforts include hosting the first Pacific Tech Careers Expo, establishing mentorship programmes, and organising leadership camps tailored for Pacific youth.

In two years, Fibre Fale has empowered nearly 7000 people through in-person programmes and reached over 3 million online. She has also been recognised in Forbes’ 30 under 30 for 2023, is a former winner of the Prime Minister’s Pacific Award for STEM, and was named a Hi-Tech Young Achiever for 2024.

Lafaele joins a distinguished list of past winners, including Fijian activist Shaneel Lal and Sāmoan choreographer Parris Goebel. When offering advice to aspiring tama’ita’i, Lafaele reflects on her journey and hopes to inspire others.

“I went to all the schools, did all the homework clubs, I was in ESOL, all goods. It’s great to be bi-lingual,” she said.

“But overall, always be proud of who you are and always shine like a diamond.”