Faafouina’s Story
My name is Faafouina Liaina, and I aspire to become a lawyer in the future.
Becoming a lawyer will allow me to give a voice to those who may not always be heard and to contribute positively to my community. My ambition is not only to succeed personally but also to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others through fairness, justice, and equality.
Growing up in Samoa allowed me to develop a strong sense of identity, respect, and
connection to my culture and family values. Life there was grounded in community, tradition, and faith, which continue to shape who I am today. At the age of eight, I began learning English, which was both a challenging and important step in my educational journey. Although it was difficult at first, I remained committed and gradually improved my language skills through persistence and effort.
In 2023, my family made the decision to move to New Zealand in search of better opportunities and a brighter future. This transition was a significant change in my life, as I had to adapt to a new environment, culture, and education system. I attended High School, where I faced several challenges, including bullying. Despite these difficulties, I remained focused on my goals and used these experiences to build resilience, strength, and determination. These challenges taught me how to persevere, remain confident, and continue striving for success even in difficult situations.
Following high school, I joined an EmployNZ hospitality course, which provided me with
valuable practical skills and experience. During this course, I developed important abilities such as communication, teamwork, and customer service. I also learned the importance of professionalism, responsibility, and working effectively with others. These skills have not only prepared me for future employment but have also contributed to my personal growth and confidence.
I am about to start a Level 3 course at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology. This course will help me strengthen my language, writing, and academic skills in preparation for higher education. Improving my English is especially important for my future studies in law, as strong communication and critical thinking skills are essential in this field. I am committed to continuing my education and building a solid foundation that will support my long-term goals.
I am particularly interested in studying law at Waikato University because of its strong
reputation and the opportunities it provides for students to succeed in the legal field. I am drawn to the university’s supportive learning environment and its focus on developing knowledgeable and skilled graduates. I believe that studying at Waikato will equip me with the tools, knowledge, and experience necessary to achieve my ambition of becoming a lawyer.
Looking ahead, in the next ten years, I see myself completing my law degree and
establishing a stable and successful career in the legal profession. I aim to continue growing both professionally and personally, gaining experience and making meaningful contributions in my field. In twenty years, I hope to be a highly successful and respected lawyer who is making a positive impact in my community. My ultimate goal is to use my career to support others, stand for justice, and represent my people with integrity and pride.