Mother overcomes struggles to graduate

By Adel Fruean 20 September 2019, 1:00PM

A mother of four celebrated sweet success at Matafele yesterday.

Emmannuelle Tupai Faletolu graduated with a Certificate III in Hospitality from the Australia Pacific Coalition (A.P.T.C.) while working night shifts and attending classes during daytime.

She was one of the 40 students who graduatedfrom A.P.T.C. after six months of studies.

The 29-year-old from Vaimea is the daughter of Samuelu and Makerita Tupai but was adopted by Kitiona and Elisapeta Kitiona.

“I am simply speechless, words fail to describe how much I feel after receiving a certificate which symbolises an accomplishment that I have achieved,” she said.

Her educational journey was not easy because of having to balance school, work, and family obligations.

“But I am overwhelmed with joy and a feeling of relief somehow because I had to sacrifice so much time so I can endure attending classes during the day and at night; I am employed as a bartender at one of the local bars.

“It was a struggle trying to balance school, work, raising my kids and have time to rest. But I am so happy that I did it and it really is a great feeling to have accomplished something that I never thought was possible.

“It’s true what they say without hard work you cannot achieve great things in life.”

She added that obtaining a hospitality certificate has meant that she is able to apply for job opportunities overseas.

“I thank my family for their support because when I was away from home whether it is during classes or night shifts at work, they would look after my children and that helped lessen my burden.

“The training was able to provide me with necessary skills for working in a lodge or small hotel where I am required to perform multiple roles, focusing on the areas of housekeeping, cookery, and food and beverage service.

“In the future, I wish to pursue other educational opportunities so that I can be something more and be able to provide for my family especially my children.”

She also advised the unemployed women of Samoa to take a leap of faith and seek work and then try and apply for higher educational opportunities.

“I am very grateful for A.P.T.C. for blessing me with knowledge to help me pursue a successful future.” 

 

By Adel Fruean 20 September 2019, 1:00PM
Samoa Observer

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