Family, friends, faculty, and community leaders gathered to honour the graduates—future change-makers poised to make a significant difference in the health and wellbeing of Pacific communities across New Zealand. Among the guests were key speakers who shared their powerful reflections on the journey, vision, and significance of the course.

Dr Roannie Ng Shiu, one of the key figures behind the course’s inception, shared the incredible journey of how it all began. "We thought, imagine a place of inspiration for communities," she said, capturing the very essence of the programme’s mission. "What started out with ideas and a pen with writing on a door has led us to here."

Roannie’s words highlighted that the microcredential programme was not just about academic achievement; it was about shaping individuals with a shared vision of creating better health outcomes for Pasifika peoples.

La'auli Savae Sir Michael Jones, another key speaker, offered heartfelt gratitude to the pioneers who first envisioned the course. "I am grateful to the people who started this course for believing in the fruits. Massive thanks to them for dreaming the vision," he said.

He went on to emphasise the importance of the work ahead: "You [students] are what it is about—you’ll identify ways to find solutions to enhance the wellbeing of our communities."

La'auli Savae Sir Michael Jones, words reflected the graduates’ role as catalysts for change—leaders who will bring new ideas and perspectives to the table, all with the common goal of improving the health and wellness of their communities. It was clear that the course had not only equipped the graduates with valuable skills but had also inspired a deep sense of responsibility.

In the words of Dr Roannie Ng Shiu, "It takes courage to stay the course." For these graduates, staying the course is just the first step in a lifelong commitment to creating a healthier, more resilient Pacific community for generations to come. Congratulations to this remarkable cohort of students.