Hailing from Rarotonga with connections to Aitutaki, Atiu and Tongareva, Ms Tearetoa was also a recipient of the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Violani ‘Ilolahia Nursing Scholarship in 2022, and shares the motivation behind her own ambitions in paving a career in health and medicine. 

“I have always been an avid believer of being in the space to influence change, so how else can I be a change maker for our Pasifika peoples if I’m not actively working in that sector.  

“I also chose this pathway as I want to increase the health literacy of Pasifika peoples to ensure positive health outcomes.”  

Mrs Tearetoa says her daughters are her biggest influence in her journey thus far and strives to be a role model for them.  

“My daughters are my biggest influence as I aspire to be someone who they look up to and are proud of. 

“We need more Pacific people in the health space. I also hope to see our people living healthy lifestyles and being better informed when it comes to their health needs. Our people deserve to be thriving in healthy and safe environments.” 

Mrs Tearetoa is currently in her second year of a Bachelor of Nursing at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology and says the PMA Scholarship has helped ease the financial stress of being a student. 

“The PMA Scholarship helped pay for my second year of studies which was really helpful as I was unable to utilise my Studylink,” she says. 

As part of her role with SWPICS, Mrs Tearetoa is familiar working with Pacific families and communities, having been with the organisation for eight years. Being in a space that serves her community in Tokoroa, she looks forward to becoming a nurse where she can continue having a positive impact.