Jemimalina Maryann Poutoa proudly walked across the stage at the University of Auckland last week to receive her Bachelor of Commerce degree. 

This degree marked the culmination of years of hard work, resilience, and a passion for business that began in her early teens.

The 23-year-old  is originally from Alafua, Samoa, with roots in Sapunaoa, Faleaseela, Fasitoo Tai, and Fogapoa, Poutoa. She had always demonstrated entrepreneurial flair. From selling brownies and cookies to classmates at Samoa College to running a small up-cycled clothing business during her foundation year at the National University of Samoa (NUS), her drive was evident early on.

“I’ve always enjoyed creating things and turning them into income,” she said. “My parents saw my passion and encouraged me to pursue a business degree to develop my ideas further.”

With limited local options, Poutoa’s academic excellence and determination earned her a Manaaki New Zealand scholarship, a partnership between the New Zealand and Samoan governments. “I would not have been able to study in New Zealand without this scholarship. I’m so grateful to the government of Samoa,” she said.

She majored in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, a field that aligned perfectly with her dreams of contributing to Samoa’s economic development. “This degree has opened my eyes to many paths—whether it’s launching my startup or driving innovation within an established company,” she said.

Her academic journey, however, was not without its challenges. The transition from Samoa to New Zealand was initially isolating. “New Zealand is very diverse and different from Samoa,” she said. “But with the support of my family, friends, and scholarship officers, I adjusted and stayed focused on why I was here.”

Access to resources was another contrast she noticed between the two countries. “In Samoa, you often have to seek out your own materials. In New Zealand, everything is available; you just have to choose what’s most relevant.” 

Despite facing academic hurdles and occasional discrimination as a Pacific Islander, Poutoa remained undeterred. “I didn’t waste time dwelling on it. I stayed focused and did well.”

 “Setting long-term and short-term goals helped me,” the scholar shared. “For example, my long-term goal at the very start was to complete my degree and graduate. So at the start of every semester, I would set my short-term goals to ensure I passed the course requirements for each subject.”

This disciplined approach provided a clear roadmap and kept the student focused and motivated through academic challenges.

A challenge Poutoa faced was not achieving a grade she had worked hard for. “It was very discouraging,” she admitted. “I had to seek advice from my parents and university staff to help guide my next steps. Sometimes, it’s a mental battle; you just have to reset your mindset and keep going.”

One of her proudest accomplishments during her studies was establishing her own business, Ash Beauty Line, which now operates online. She also completed an internship with New Zealand Growth Capital Partners through the Tuputoa Internship Program, gaining firsthand experience in investment and startup development.

Now, with a degree in hand, Poutoa plans to return to Samoa to serve her country, grow her business, and inspire others, especially young women from disadvantaged backgrounds. “Education is so important,” she said. “We need more young people to create businesses, pay taxes, and contribute to our economy.”

Poutoa describes her Bachelor of Commerce degree, majoring in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, as transformative for her outlook on business and her future. “It wasn’t just about learning how to start a business,” she said. “It taught me to spot opportunities, think creatively, and approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset.”

The degree opened her eyes to a range of possibilities, from launching her startup to driving innovation within established companies. “It’s taught me to be adaptable and proactive, which are essential in today’s fast-changing world,” she explained. “Most importantly, it gave me the confidence to lead and innovate, knowing these skills are valuable and can help me make a real impact wherever I go.”

When asked what advice she’d give her younger self, she responded: “Enjoy the process. Don’t stress too much. Remember your ‘why.’”

While further academic study isn’t one of her immediate goals, Poutoa is focused on applying what she’s learned. "I plan to work and develop my business and hopefully develop more businesses that can contribute to Samoa’s economy,” she said 

“I hope to support young girls from disadvantaged families who have the potential to excel.”