In a moving celebration of perseverance, faith, and purpose, Samoan educator Nicki Perese graduated with honours from Waikato University in New Zealand—marking her fifth academic achievement, yet one she describes as just as meaningful as the first.

A former President of the Waikato University Samoan Students’ Association, Ms Perese was surrounded by love as she shared the moment with her parents, Reverend Toalua and Sue Perese, the resident minister currently serving at the Congregational Christian Church Samoa (CCCS) parish in Sapunaoa, Falealili, and with extended family from New Zealand and Samoa.

"Growing up in Samoa and attending Leulumoega Fou College, I never imagined reaching this stage in my academic journey. Life has presented many challenges, but through it all, I have been truly blessed with the unwavering support of my family and friends," she shared. "Viia le Alii. This is my fifth graduation, yet the feeling remains the same, especially when I get to celebrate it with the people I love. I'm humbled to see my family in New Zealand including my sibling and of course my friends and family from Samoa."

A proud second-generation New Zealand-born Samoan, Perese’s journey reflects a deep sense of responsibility to her homeland. Despite the opportunities abroad, she chose to remain rooted in Samoa.

"Many of us look at education through a Western lens, and often, people prioritize financial stability abroad. However, I know my calling is to stay in Samoa. While many of my peers have moved overseas, I made a conscious decision to remain—not just to fulfil my bond, but because I truly believe in serving my country."

Perese’s influence in the education sector is substantial. She has taught Biology, English, and Computer Studies at Maluafou College, lectured at the National University of Samoa (NUS), tutored at USP, and currently serves as a Curriculum Officer at the Ministry of Education and Culture (MEC). Her research at Waikato University delved into the role of language in assessment and instruction in Year 13 Biology classrooms in Samoa.

"Language is a key factor in academic success. Through this research, I explored the challenges and opportunities bilingual education presents in Samoa," she explained.

Her dedication often meant balancing academic pursuits with national duties. "During my studies, I felt a deep responsibility to return home every semester break to ensure the Primary Curriculum Review and resource development were progressing smoothly. At times, I was so focused on my work in Samoa that I had to remind myself—I was still a student," she admitted.

Perese’s academic journey, funded through a Manaki New Zealand Scholarship awarded in 2019, faced multiple delays—from her father’s illness and the measles outbreak to the global COVID-19 pandemic. Still, her faith remained firm. "I am a firm believer in God’s timing, and this was truly the right time," she reflected.

Now armed with a Master’s in Education with honours, Perese continues to tutor Biology students and lead curriculum development efforts, with the revised Primary Curriculum set to launch later this year.

When asked about what lies ahead, she smiled: "For now, I just want to savour this moment—these little wins in life matter. But who knows? Maybe one day, people will call me Dr Perese," she laughed.

To future scholarship recipients and aspiring changemakers, she offers this heartfelt advice: "Go get that education and come back home to make a difference. So when people ask what you do in Samoa, you can confidently say, 'I'm making a difference.'"

Nicki Perese’s story is not just one of academic achievement—it is a shining example of resilience, purpose-driven leadership, and a deep, unwavering love for Samoa.