What are you studying?
Bachelor of Health Science: Paramedic at Whitireia Polytechnic in Porirua.
Where do you whakapapa from?
Samoa: Moata’a, Malaemalu and Falealili villages.
What mahi did you work on?
I worked in the Data System Policy Team working on the Stats NZ Long-Term Insights Briefing. I also worked on the System Critical Assets piece as part of the refreshed Minister’s mandate paper to Cabinet. I’ve been a part of the release practices work under certain sections in the Data & Statistics Act 2022 and sat in various meetings regarding different areas of work around the new Act.
Learning from my colleagues and their experiences working in policy was awesome exposure. The knowledge they have is priceless, so I made the effort to soak in as much as possible while also adding my own input where I saw fit. The work environment is unmatched, such a friendly and kind space to be in. Also, can’t forget about the morning coffee catchups that help set the day up to be more positive and fun.
One of the many things is the flexibility of working from the office or home. Also, the people there are friendly and so helpful, always keen to help me out and have a yarn whenever, especially the Pasifika community at Stats NZ. The work they offer, in my opinion, has a lot of value and provides you with the opportunity to really make a difference with the work you put into it. I also got to meet the CE of Stats NZ uncle Mark Sowden, that was super cool.
What advice would you give future interns?
Don’t get in your way! Sometimes our worst enemies are ourselves. Take risks and work hard, they will either pay off as a success or as a lesson – it’s a win/win.
Favourite quote?
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” [Philippians 4:13]