Three Samoan scholars have successfully graduated from the United States of America with master's certificates from different universities as part of the Fulbright Foreign Student Exchange scholarship program.

Among the three students was Sefuiva Moeumu Uili. She completed her research at Colorado State University. Her studies focused on the conservation of Samoa's national bird the Manumea, listed as a critically endangered and rare species. 

Her background experience is in field experimentation and connection with communities as the Principal Parks and Reserves Officer under the Division of Environment and Conservation Plus. Her passion for saving the country's national bird motivated Moeumu to seek skills and knowledge needed to make the research possible. Moeumu is now using her analysing  skills and professionalism to continue the search for the Manumea 

Moeumu stated "This was not only an opportunity for me to deepen my knowledge, but was a chance for growth and adventures to never forget," 

The researcher aspires to inspire others. " Try and find value as we all have the purpose to give back to our community, but most importantly do it for yourself. Youth nowadays are taking the easy route of finishing high school and working for seasonal work schemes. But you need to look beyond as we all have a purpose try hard and don't give up.     

Puti Tuia the second scholar pursued her master's in public Affairs at the University of Missouri-Columbia where she gained professional experience, a deep understanding of governance and policy, and best practices from an international perspective. 

Her role as Principal Human Resources and Administrative Officer at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology(MCIT) motivated her to help improve public services in Samoa. With the use of her knowledge and skills gained, she aims to strengthen and create new opportunities for others in the community. 

Her Journey in the United States was difficult "But with great success comes with many sacrifices" said Puti

In hoping to inspire others, Puti wants to inspire our youths and younger generations.

"To take that step don't question whether you can succeed or not, if you are granted and given an opportunity, take advantage of the opportunity as you never know what you can benefit from or get out of it," Puti said.

Jonathan Pa'u Chang completed his master's in Community Climate Adaptation at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts. His work with the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa and experiences across the Pacific, Asia and the Caribbean focuses on bringing a global, interdisciplinary perspective to climate work committing to fostering inclusive and culturally grounded solutions. 

Jonathan is strongly encouraging students and people of the nation never to be afraid to ask for help.

It is not a failure if you try and fail but it is a failure when you don't try," said Jonathan.  

The three scholars also expressed their gratitude and appreciation to the United States for giving them the opportunity of a lifetime as it has made a big impact on their lives.