First published 28 June 2024
On Friday, 21 June, QUT hosted a vibrant Pasifika Professional Panel for visiting Year 12 students from three partner schools, St James College, Morayfield State High School and Murrumba State Secondary College as part of the Pasifika Navigators outreach initiative. The event, aimed at inspiring and guiding Pasifika students, was held at QUT's Gardens Point campus and featured prominent Pasifika professionals from various fields.
The panel provided an invaluable opportunity for students to engage directly with successful Pasifika professionals including QUT alumna Chelsea Petaia (Senior Consultant at Deloitte), Lieutenant Vaoafi Hart (Head of Automation at the Australia Army), Dr. Kuinileti Chang Wai from the Oceania Pacific Health Association, and George Moenoa-Williams (Special Counsel at Colin Biggers & Paisley Lawyers). Each panelist shared their unique journey, offering insights into their careers and the challenges they have overcome.
Chelsea Petaia shared her experiences as a Samoan and Maori woman in the engineering sector. Lieutenant Vaoafi Hart captivated the audience with her story of transitioning from a Combat Systems Sailor to the Head of Army Automation. "Embracing a new challenge, I delved into the realm of technology, studying Artificial Intelligence to stay ahead in the digital age," said Vaoafi. Her dedication to community service and gender equality through the Pasifika Women's Alliance also inspired many students.
Dr. Kuinileti Chang Wai and George Moenoa-Williams shared their extensive experiences in the medical and legal fields, respectively, emphasising the importance of resilience, continuous learning, and community support.
In addition to the panel, students were given a tour of QUT's Gardens Point campus, guided by QUT widening participation student ambassadors. The students also participated in a storytelling workshop facilitated by Agapetos Aia-Fa'aleava, which allowed them to express their aspirations and learn from each other.
The feedback from students and school staff was overwhelmingly positive. “It was welcoming, hands on & showed students they can do anything they dream.” reported one school staff member. Many students indicated that the event broadened their understanding of career options and boosted their confidence in pursuing higher education whilst recognising the strength of their cultural identity.
QUT's Student Inclusion team, in collaboration with partner schools, continues to support Pasifika students through initiatives like the Pasifika Navigators program. These efforts aim to provide students with the resources and inspiration they need to identify post-school study options and succeed in their future careers.
Pasifika Professional Panelists and QUT Student Ambassadors: From left to right - Brooklyn (Student Ambassador), Panelists: George Moenoa-Williams (Collin Biggers & Paisley Lawyers), Dr. Kuinielti Chang Wai (Oceania Pacific Health Association), Chelsea Petaia (Deloitte), Lieutenant Vaoafi Hart (Army), Maria (Student Ambassador).
Image: Pasifika Professional Panelists and QUT Student Ambassadors: From left to right - Brooklyn (Student Ambassador), Panelists: George Moenoa-Williams (Collin Biggers & Paisley Lawyers), Dr. Kuinielti Chang Wai (Oceania Pacific Health Association), Chelsea Petaia (Deloitte), Lieutenant Vaoafi Hart (Army), Maria (Student Ambassador).
Find out more about QUT's Student Inclusion programs.
