UQSPIA CLASS OF 2016 ALUM
Sailoto Liveti - Tuvaluan
Bachelor of Science (Marine Biology)
"For me, this milestone is a testament to how far the provision of constant love and support from others can guide and motivate you. Therefore, I wholeheartedly owe this moment to many people. Firstly to God - Your boundless blessings and guidance have not gone unnoticed, I have borne witness to your vast artwork everyday at UQ and I await the plan you have set. To my mother, father, and brother, words cannot express how grateful I am for your presence, your encouragement, your sacrifices, and endlessly more. To the caring people I befriended both prior and during this journey; you are all *cue cringe* precious jewels in the treasure chest called my heart.
But in all seriousness… Taking those first steps, I don’t think I could have ever been fully prepared for what UQ had in store for me. I was not ready for the sudden independence for assessments or the dreadful moment of mourning my Subway Melt as it was being savagely devoured by an ibis, and I definitely was not ready for meeting this family of lil nasties known as UQ SPIA.
UQ SPIA – you have given me more than I could ever repay. You have not only given me a second family, but a second chance. To find my identity, to connect with my culture, to embrace who I am. I entered university three years ago a naïve plastic who neglected his Pacific grassroots; I now exit it a humbled Tuvaluan who carries his culture on his back.
To say the least, my journey throughout university was definitely one that I do not regret. Yes, there were many challenges that broke me down – but it was through these challenges that I was able to discover who I am and locate the tools to help me carve who I want to be. So to those about to embark or still on this journey, keep your head held high and stand strong in solidarity with who you are. You’ve got this. Fafetai UQ SPIA mo masaniga mote fesoasoani mai ki au i taimi ne akoga ei au i UQ!"