Having graduated from the University of Otago Medical School, Dr Fesaitu is an ACEM Trainee Registrar at the Hawke's Bay Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital Emergency Department (ED), a role he thoroughly enjoys. 

"The ED is the first point of contact for most patients presenting to the hospital providing care for life threatening and urgent health care needs. You get to work in the frontline hearing their stories, meeting their families, and providing a service by treating their medical problems.  

"There is never a dull day in the ED, it’s unpredictable and every day is different because you never know what is going to come through the door." 

Dr Fesaitu's father is from Sauhata, Oinafa and his mother is from Atapisi, Motusa. He acknowledges his parents for his upbringing as they ensured the Rotuman culture and language was a part of his everyday life. 

"I am very proud to be a Rotuman and it makes me feel special. I am grateful to my parents who raised me up with Rotuman cultural values. One of the main values I carry with me is respect and I ensure that I am respectful, caring and polite in the way I communicate with patients. 

"I also work with a diverse group of people with different ethnic backgrounds, beliefs and different levels of medical knowledge and skill sets. Being mindful of this and showing respect in my interaction and communication with my colleagues enables me to be an effective and adaptable team member." 

Reflecting on the theme of Rotuman Language Week for this year (Vetḁkia ‘os Fäega ma Ag fak hanua - Sustaining our Language and Culture) Dr Fesaitu emphasises on the importance of keeping the culture alive by passing down knowledge and the language to the younger generation. 

"Language and culture are part of our identity and give us a sense of belonging. It denotes our cultural history and how our forefathers have nurtured values and morals into the way we do and think of things, and this translates into how we raise and nurture our future generations to come.  

"Most of our values are rooted in love and respect for each other and especially our elders. This gives us a sense of security and assurance that protects our loved ones and communities that we all share the same beliefs and values.  

"Today our children are bombarded and frequently influenced by social media and western ideas that sometimes contradict and harm those values. This theme reminds us to practice and maintain our language and culture so that important values and beliefs are passed on to our children."