The next step for Joseph Mulitalo, 21, is securing employment so he can start supporting his mother and grandfather. Joseph was declared overall dux of Don Bosco Technical College on Thursday.

He is from Leauvaa and Lano, Savaii. He was also the top student of the welding course. 

His family was proud of his success and saw it as the result of years of sacrifice, support and steady guidance.

Joseph is the son of Maria Pelenatiti Ioane and the grandson of Laumoli Ioane. His mother noted that his grandfather, who has been his guardian ever since, played a central role in his journey and supported him every step of the way. Their support has remained constant throughout his journey.

"I would like to acknowledge our principal, teachers and fellow students of the campus,” Joseph said. He noted that the support he received from everyone at the school was outstanding and played a big part in helping him reach this milestone. He said the path was not always easy.

Joseph noted that some of the challenges he faced were the workshops and observations, but he managed to pull through and finish strong. Joseph said he remained focused on what comes next.

He aspires to be a welder and hopes to build a stable career in the trade, using the skills he gained at Don Bosco as his foundation.