After completing her teaching day in Tonga, Kelenita often spent time with her husband’s niece, who lives with autism and Down syndrome. She dedicated these visits to teaching her how to speak and write, a role that deeply inspired her.
“I decided that if I pursued further study, it would be in inclusion and special education,” Kelenita explains.
"There are many students with special education needs who are not in school, as their families are hesitant due to cultural perceptions, limited understanding of disabilities, and a shortage of specialised teacher training."
“My dream was to go back to study at university and return to Tonga to help develop the curriculum and train others to support these students.”
Following her December graduation, Kelenita’s dream will become a reality, as she prepares to take up a position with the Tongan Ministry of Education and Training (MET) on her return home, an opportunity she is very excited about.
“The position is in inclusive and special education. I will be helping to deliver training programmes for teachers across Tonga for students with neurodevelopmental disorders.
“These workshops will build skills, knowledge, and show people that these children deserve the same opportunity and level of education as any other student.”
In 2021, Kelenita received a Manaaki Scholarship to study towards her Master’s. Offered by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the scholarship enables international students from selected developing countries to study at a New Zealand university and enhance their skills to contribute to the sustainable development of their home country.
“When I first came to New Zealand, I was worried—about the weather, where my classes were, and that I didn’t know anyone at university. But at international student orientation I was introduced to the Pasifika community.
“I was so happy because I knew if I needed help, I could go to them, and they would support me. It was the same with student learning who helped me with my assignments. The support services not only helped with education but also things like my wellbeing, it meant I could just focus on my study.”
Returning to university study was a challenge for Kelenita, particularly as she adapted to a new culture. After having spent several years on the other side of the desk since her undergraduate degree, she had to relearn how to be a student.
“The most rewarding part of my study was learning from my mistakes. Each step taught me something new.
“For example, I had never written a research paper before, and I had to do a project focused on autism. Along the way, I learned so much. When I started, I didn’t fully understand what neurodevelopmental disorders were. I had heard of them, but my knowledge was limited.”
Despite these challenges, it was her faith, the support of those closest to her, and a powerful dream that kept her motivated throughout.
“At one point, I failed a test and thought about giving up, but I always remembered my husband’s niece and my dream of helping special needs students.
“I’m also Christian, and I have faith. I always put God first in everything I do. I faced many challenges at university, sometimes I had to stay up all night working on assignments, or in winter I didn’t want to go to class, but I would always wake up, say my prayers, and feel better.
“That’s something that has always motivated me. I know if I don’t sacrifice myself, put God first, and work hard, I won’t achieve my dream.”
Kelenita credits her husband and son for much of her success, noting their sacrifices that enabled her to study in New Zealand.
“I have a 19-year-old son who’s a student at Feilding High School, and my husband came from Tonga to support me. He took care of everything at home so I could focus on my studies. I owe them both so much.”
After graduation, Kelenita will celebrate Christmas in Palmerston North with her family before returning to Tonga to put her education and dream into action.