Samoa Language Week 2026: Graduate honours her Samoan heritage

We met Dunedin-based Sina, at our graduation ceremony in Christchurch in May, where she graduated with a Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary Education). 

Sina was born and bred in Wellington, but her identity has always been anchored in the Samoan villages of Lepā and Lefaga. 

“A cornerstone of my life was my matai hierarchical title, Tuaopepe; a sacred honour bestowed upon me in Samoa in 2019,” Sina says. 

Open Polytechnic qualification helps Sina get a job 

Following Sina’s studies, she was offered a job as a teacher at Arthur Street School in Dunedin.  

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to the school for this opportunity and for welcoming me into such a vibrant learning community,” Sina says. 

“Being given the platform to work here full-time has allowed me to turn my academic achievements into meaningful service.” 

“The approachable nature of my colleagues and the inclusive environment have made my transition into the classroom both seamless and deeply fulfilling.” 

The Samoan cultural influence 

Sina’s approach to education is heavily influenced by the Samoan culture.  

“Despite being raised in Wellington, my parents reinforced the vital importance of our language; we weren't allowed to speak English at home,” Sina says. 

“At the time, it was a strict rule, but today I see it as a precious gift.”  

“It enabled us to communicate fluently with everyone, especially our grandparents, and kept our culture alive in a Western context.” 

Samoa Language Week 

Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa - Samoa Language Week runs from Sunday 31 May until Saturday 6 June 2026. 

Open Polytechnic supports Pacific Language Weeks, to encourage and support Pasifika ākonga.  

There are currently 1206 Samoan and a total of 3,358 Pasifika ākonga studying at Open Polytechnic. 

For Samoa Language Week, Sina be teaching her class traditional greetings and sharing some authentic Samoan cuisine. 

“As we celebrate Samoan Language Week, I am passionate about passing this legacy on to my students,” Sina says. 

“I am also currently teaching the kapa haka group the sāsā—a rhythmic experience that has become a massive hit with the ākonga (learners).” 

Career changing study with Open Polytechnic 

Before she started studying with Open Polytechnic, Sina’s life changed when her husband, Paul, secured a position in Dunedin, leading the family of four, including their two sons, to relocate south from Wellington.  

“Arriving in a new city, I found myself at a crossroads,” Sina says. 

“I had held an undergraduate degree for many years, but I hadn't yet fully stepped into my professional potential.”  

“I knew it was time to do something for myself—to transform my qualifications into a career that would serve my community.” 

That’s when Sina decided to study towards a Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary Education) at Open Polytechnic.  

“I am immensely grateful to the institution for believing in me and providing the encouragement I needed to reclaim my academic path,” Sina says. 

“The resources were accessible and the staff were incredibly approachable, which made returning to study as a parent a smooth transition.” 

“I especially want to acknowledge the Pasifika Office, who truly journeyed alongside me, providing the cultural understanding and support necessary to achieve success.” 

Graduation 

Graduating with Open Polytechnic was a special moment for Sina and her family. 

“Having my two sons witness that ceremony was a profound experience, as it allowed them to see the weight of our heritage and the responsibilities of leadership within our aiga (wider family),” Sina says. 

“Graduating was a milestone I will always cherish, especially because my two boys were there to see it.” 

“I think they were even more excited than I was! Seeing their pride made every late night of studying worth it.” 

Sina would recommend others take the plunge and study with Open Polytechnic.  

“To anyone considering further education, I wholeheartedly encourage you to study with Open Polytechnic. The flexibility and the genuine support from the staff give you the confidence to excel,” Sina says. 

“My journey from Wellington to Dunedin has taught me that no matter where you are or how long you've waited, it is never too late to achieve your goals and honour your heritage through your work.

Photo from left: Rebekah Tuileto'a, Pule Ma’ata – Pasifika at Open Polytechnic, along with Sina and her family at the Christchurch graduation ceremony.