Lisi-Malia Pereira was named Samoa College’s 2019 Dux on Tuesday.

The school’s prize giving was held at its multipurpose hall at Vaivase.

Due to the state of emergency in force until last month all schools, including Samoa College, were not permitted to host prize givings as young children were banned from public congregation.

Ms. Pereira is the daughter of Audrey Brown-Pereira and Seve Benjamin Pereira from Taufusi, Vaivase, Alafua and Salelologa.

Ms. Pereira was also the recipient of the Samoa Observer award for topping English in the Year 13 level. The 17-year-old also topped History.

During her acceptance speech she acknowledged victims who lost their lives during the measles epidemic. 

“May we continue to be gracious and humble in the lessons we will continue to learn and may we never forget,” she said.

The 2019 Samoa College dux also thanked the school’s Principal, Auava Reupena Rimoni, and staff for guiding her and her classmates to write their very own chapter in the ongoing story of Samoa College.

“To our parents, caregivers, and extended family we thank you for your belief in us as your children and for your continued love and support," she said. 

“At times we are un-deserving, but your faith, prayers and protection over us, has sheltered us through the many storms, both seen and unseen."

Lisi-Malia said she was not naturally inclined toward public speaking but relayed messages from her parents about the value of dedication. 

“Recognition of hard work and sacrifice by those before us and those amongst us, as well as something to aspire to, for those to come," she said. 

“We must acknowledge the hard work and sacrifice not only of our families, past and present, but of Samconians [Samoa College students], who have made this day possible and helped make Samoa College what it is today.

“For those of us lucky enough to take home a trophy today, remember tomorrow is a new day. Faith, hard work, the value of education and humility are constant reminders that nothing is ours forever.”

The dux said that while sitting in 2018’s prize giving watching others take home prizes she felt disappointed with herself.

“But what my family has instilled in me, is that we must face each day as a new one and not sit in our disappointments – but challenge ourselves to do better," she said. 

Ms. Pereira also acknowledged her Year 13 class of 2019 for the friendship, laughter and tears, competitive spirit and for their many talents.

“May you continue to carry the legacy of Samoa College ‘Atamai e tautua mo Samoa’ [Be wise in serving Samoa].”

She has not made up her mind about what field to pursue in the future because she took full commerce and arts subjects.

The next step for her is to attend National University of Samoa’s Foudation level this year, where she hopes to study hard and attain an overseas scholarship. 

Lisi-Malia is the granddaughter of Sili Epa Tuioti and Lutau Tony  Pereira and Alamita Vaai Pereira.