Man pays tribute to Peseta Malua

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia 03 July 2016, 12:00AM

The late Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour, Peseta Margret Malua, has been an inspirational leader to many who knew her. 

And with the sad news of her passing last week, her ability to reach out to young people to help them is not easily forgotten.

One of the many youngsters who has paid tribute to the late Peseta is, Seleni Emeresone Pua.  Having graduated from the University of Otago with a Bachelor of Commerce six years ago, Mr. Pua faced the challenge of finding his first job. 

“I was a freshman out of university with nothing in my bank account and didn’t want to do feau or go to the plantation,” said Mr. Pua. “I had more than ten unsuccessful job applications later and this gem (Peseta) came to my rescue. She gave me hope…she took me in and nurtured me as her own.”

The graduate said he got the job as an Information Officer from Peseta while she was the Chief Executive Officer of the Samoa Business Enterprises Center. 

 “She gave me the job after the interview and something she said in that interview in which I still remember to date.   “She said (to me) it’s important to understand that getting a degree is not just about the first job after university it’s about a lifetime of advantage in the labour market as well as the potential for huge personal growth. This paved way for my career path which led me to where I am today.”

Mr. Pua thanked Peseta for instilling confidence in him. 

“I have learnt so much about work and life from her while working at S.B.E.C. Always pushing us the young ones to go back to study and to climb that corporate ladder…if only you were still here so that I can tell you in person I appreciate you.” Mr. Pua is now working in Brisbane Australia with D.H.L. Express.  Peseta died from cancer last Sunday at her home in Tulaele. 

Her final service will be held tomorrow at the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa at Vailoa. Her body will then be taken to Sefo Pau’s crematorium at Tafaigata where she will be cremated. 

 

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia 03 July 2016, 12:00AM

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