Summer Graduation Series: Vilingatoni Hasiata
Updates / News, 25 Jan 23
Hailing from the shores of Tonga and Papua New Guinea and a recent graduate from the University of Auckland, Vili Hasiata initially did not envision himself studying to become a doctor, but is proud of himself for the achievement.

Vili was a former student of Ōtāhuhu College and part of the Health Science Academy, supported by the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) through Pasifika Futures (PFL).  

"Ōtāhuhu College has a long history of producing doctors and health professionals and I'm one of the former students whose been lucky enough to follow that pathway.  

Through that, I found an interest in medicine but never thought I could pursue it at first and so I enrolled into another programme. I came to my senses though and I'm now very passionate about health and medicine." 

On his Tongan side, Vili represents Feletoa in Vava'u, Ma'ufanga in Tongatapu and is from Hanuabada in Papua New Guinea. He will be the first doctor in his family and has recently started working as a House Officer at Te Whatu Ora Counties Manukau.

"This means a lot to my family because I'll be the first doctor on both sides, so this is quite exciting for them. This accomplishment is a big achievement and they're very proud." 

Vili was a recipient of the 2021 PMA Dr Leopino Foliaki University of Auckland Scholarship and is grateful for PMA's support throughout his studies. During his studies, he was also interning for PMA. 

"The scholarship was quite tangible in terms of helping with financial stress. Being that I was one of the older students, I had exhausted my student loan perks so the scholarship eased that burden. The overall support from PMA was amazing and I am very grateful."