Born and raised on the Kāpiti Coast in New Zealand, Ms Taramai proudly represents the islands of Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Her connection to Matavera, Rarotonga, runs deep as she calls it home.
Ms Taramai's journey in medicine is deeply influenced by the legacy of her late Grandmother, Tuerei o Arera Taramai Tetonga. In 1959, her grandmother, along with her grandfather, made the decision to migrate to New Zealand, where they raised a family of eight children, including Ms Taramai's father. Her grandmother's life was a testament to resilience, faith, and a selfless dedication to the Cook Islands community in Hutt City.
"I admire her strong faith, intelligence, and selfless love for her community," Ms Taramai says of her grandmother.
The scholarship she has received carries a deep personal significance. She knows that her grandmother would have been proud of her achievements.
"I feel extremely honored to receive PMA’s Papa’alil’i Dr Semisi Ma’ia’i Scholarship, to finally be able to credit my family as my inspiration for this success in my medical journey so far.”
Her father, Nooroa Taramai, has been a constant source of support throughout her academic journey.
"He is always my biggest fan and greatest encourager," she says, "and making him proud has become my greatest joy."
Ms Taramai's experiences in clinical practice have intensified her desire to be a culturally competent healthcare professional and a dedicated advocate for Pacific people. She sees the spirit of her father, grandmother, and extended family in the faces of her patients every day, especially during their most vulnerable moments.
"I want to connect with these patients and have a role in making their experiences better," she affirms. Her goal is to be a bridge between healthcare and her community, making a meaningful impact in the lives of Pacific people, just as her grandmother did in her time.
With the PMA scholarship in hand, she is poised to continue her journey and make a lasting impact on the healthcare landscape for the benefit of Pacific communities, fulfilling the legacy of her late grandmother.