Born in Tonga and raised in New Zealand, Gridiron player Paul Ma’u is 6’4 tall and weighs more than 200kgs and is often mistaken for a security guard.
But the self-professed gentle giant says people are surprised when he tells them that he is in his final year of his nursing degree and is passionate about caring for his community.
“A lot of people like to use stereotypes and think I’m more of a security guard and not much of a nurse. It’s something that I have put up with most of my life.
I’m large in stature with a calming manner that makes people feel peaceful and safe around me. I believe that I am a good role model for my community because I do not hesitate to help others in need.”
Paul, 37, was rewarded for his hard work by receiving the Violani ‘Ilolahia Wills Nursing Scholarship last year by the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA).
The award pays tribute to Tongan born Violani ‘Ilolahia Wills, a leader in Pacific nursing whose long career spans more than 50 years. In 1975 she was appointed charge nurse of the neo-natal intensive care ward at Wellington Hospital and spent 24 years in the role. She is also the patron of the Tonga Nurses Association Aotearoa.
Paul says he was honoured to be presented with the award from Mrs Ilolahia Wills at the ceremony in Auckland last year.
“My mum passed, and she had a very special role in my life. When I received the scholarship, I was reminded by everything she taught me.”
Paul also says that he received valuable advice from Mrs Ilolahia Wills, who reminded him to be proud of his Tongan heritage and they both discovered on the night that they were distantly related.
“She wanted to make sure that I understood how far nursing has come from the time that she was working. She was very helpful and wanted to follow my journey.”
Paul says he always wanted to be a nurse and this desire never waned.
For the last ten years, Paul has been working as a senior psychiatric assistant at Mason clinic and has been juggling his full-time studies with work and raising his family. He says his wife and four children inspire him and he encourages Pacific students who are studying nursing to apply for this scholarship.
“Everything I am doing now, is according to the Lord’s plan. I know my example has a positive influence on my community, especially my family.”
Applications for the Violani ‘Ilolahia Wills Scholarship opens this Friday 21 May 2021 along with the other PMA Scholarships on offer.
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Date: Monday 17 May 2021