The journey back to the lecture halls of The University of the South Pacific for Lesieli Fekitamoelotu Huihahau, was a powerful declaration that it’s never too late to chase your dream.  

The 30-year-old, who hails from the Tonga island of Ha‘apai in Koulo, Holopeka, and Lotofoa, recently graduated with a Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture from USP’s Tonga Campus. 

Huihahau said her academic drive was rooted deeply in the soil and sea of her island home. 

"I come from an island of agricultural livelihood; we always depend on agriculture and fisheries for our survival. This foundation inspired me to go further in agriculture, to see how we could manage and get it to another level where our people could thrive."

After earning her undergraduate degree in 2016, she returned to Tonga and began her career in the Ministry of Agriculture. However, the pull toward further study never faded, even as her family grew.

She said her decision was solidified by an application for the prestigious Australian Awards scholarship.

"It came across my mind to go back and further study, but having kids made it hard for me to pursue academic journey," she recalled. 

"After years of hiatus, I finally made the choice last year to go back to school, which I think was the right one. I mustered up the courage to apply for the Australian Award Scholarship, and then I got the offer. I’m grateful for this because it gave me the chance to complete my postgraduate studies.” 

Returning to school as a married mother-of-three was a challenge she met head-on, taking her young children with her to the USP Samoa Campus to complete the programme.

Behind her commitment was the steadfast support of her husband, who was working in Australia as a seasonal worker, providing support for the family from afar.

"It was totally different from when I was an undergraduate student," Huihahau added. 

"I would say balancing motherhood with the academic journey was really difficult, but I’m proud of myself for overcoming the challenges, and here I am today."

Huihahau also added that her Postgraduate Diploma was not the finish line, but a new horizon. 

Her education is now a driving factor for her mission in making the most of the limited land resources in Tonga.

Huihahau's experience has now become a beacon of hope, leading her to share this powerful advice. "For me, this is not the end but a beginning, a stepping stone toward a Master’s degree and, with God’s will, a PhD," she said.

"I think my advice is for all the mothers, the young students, wherever you are – It's never too late to chase your dream. Even if you're a mother, it's not the end. There's still a chance for you to chase your dream."

Applications for Semester 1, 2026 studies are Now Open. 

New students can discover their study pathway and explore our internationally accredited programmes by visiting www.usp.ac.fj/apply [2]

Former students returning within three years can continue their studies via www.usp.ac.fj/resume [3]

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Sponsored Post #8527 promoted by University of the South Pacific, 23-30 January 2026