Dr Brown, who proudly represents her villages of Iva in Savaii and Levili in Upolu Samoa, was the recipient of the Dr Leopino Foliaki University of Auckland Scholarship in 2021 and has since entered the workforce as a Junior Doctor at Middlemore Hospital. 

“Working at Middlemore I witness first-hand the disparities in the social determinants of health and how it contributes to poor health outcomes. 

“I hope that in time the healthcare system is better suited for our Pasifika community and health professionals will work alongside their Pasifika patients, address their concerns and empower them to have self-governance over their own health." 

Dr Brown acknowledges the sacrifices of her family in supporting her journey in medicine and instilling in her the values that have made it possible for her to do so, and encourages young people who are interested in health to pursue this as a viable career.  

"My aiga are my biggest motivation. They sacrificed a lot for me to be where I am now. They were extremely hard working, in order to provide for me and to ensure I had opportunities to explore what I wanted to do growing up.  

"They also instilled the importance of the Samoan values of tautua (service), fa’aloalo (respect) and alofa (compassion). So I try to integrate these values in how I care for my patients and colleagues, to honour my family." 

Dr Brown relays how the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) scholarship supported her aspirations while she was studying. 

“This scholarship supported me in my studies as it relieved some of the financial burden studying a six year degree can have. It also gave me the opportunity to be more involved with PMA and network with fellow Pasifika health professionals paving the way for us and our communities.”  

Dr Brown is grateful for the opportunity to serve Pacific families and communities in her current role and says it is rewarding being in a position where she can care for others. 

“Working in health is extremely rewarding. Even when I am having a rough day, what gets me through are the Pasifika patients who I come across. They are the most appreciative and grateful patients, and it is a privilege being in a position to care for others.  

"Even though the journey seems quite daunting, it is very much possible and there are many resources and people out there ready to support you; if you are interested, I encourage you to get involved and explore the opportunities that are out there.”