At just 22 years old, Time Sumeo from Vailima stood proudly at the Maota Tupulaga Hall in Sogi on Friday, celebrating a milestone that marked not only personal achievement but a victory for his entire Family.

Time is a child of Fakaono Sumeo and Talatau Sumeo and the first in the family to receive an Australian Scholarship. He graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of the South Pacific (USP), specialising in Economics and International Business and Marketing. 

“This degree is my fa'asipepa. A symbol of perseverance, sacrifice, and the collective support of my family. It represents overcoming immense challenges and fulfilling the dreams that many before me couldn’t be achieved,” he said.

Time’s academic journey took him from Samoa to Fiji. Living away from home for the first time was a major adjustment.

“Studying in Fiji taught me the true meaning of self-independence. Being away from home forced me to grow quickly not just academically but personally,” he said

“I learned to take full responsibility for my journey, make tough decisions, and stay disciplined in unfamiliar surroundings. That independence truly shaped my perspective and helped me mature as an individual.

 “Student life was vibrant and multicultural. I loved the friendships, campus spirit, and the shared identity of being young Pacific leaders striving for a better future."

 Balancing academics with leadership and cultural responsibilities felt like “juggling flaming pineapples,” but Time credits discipline, faith, and intentional time management for keeping him on track. One key lesson he carries with him is never to give up, even when “the nights are long and you’re down to noodles.” 

Time plans to use his education to uplift his community, building on the leadership roles he held at USP and his passion for development work.

Despite the challenges, Time never lost sight of his Samoan identity. He led the Samoa Church choir in Suva, actively participated in the Samoan Association, and remained anchored in his cultural values of fa’aaloalo (respect), alofa (love), and lototō (humility).

Time is already serving his country as a Foreign Service Officer for Trade under Samoa’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). With plans to pursue further studies at the University of Sydney—aiming for a Master’s in Economics and a Master’s in Business Management, he hopes to build on what he’s started.