Alyssa Laufiso is a Samoan mother of three from Avondale, and a former Futures that Work scholarship recipient who graduated with honours in Social Practice studies.
This scholarship makes a huge change to myself, a young mother, and also to so many other people of colour who are trying to make a change and a difference.
As a second chance learner, having left high school before graduating, Alyssa returned to study with a clear purpose and passion.
“I went back into study because I saw a lot of areas that need more people of colour in the field supporting Māori and Pasifika,” Alyssa explains. “So that is where I am very passionate, in Indigenous rights.”
This realisation became her driving force, pushing her back into the classroom as a mature student determined to make a difference.
Receiving Le Va’s Futures that Work scholarship to support her study journey was transformative for Alyssa.
“This scholarship makes a huge change to myself, a young mother, and also to so many other people of colour who are trying to make a change and a difference – not only for other people but for their families, for their ancestors.”
For others thinking of pursuing studies in mental health and addiction support, Alyssa’s message is powerful and simple:
“My advice would be that it’s never too late to go back into the field and to study. Having had children quite early, that seemed impossible for me but here I am!”
Her gratitude extends beyond herself. “It’s organisations like Le Va that do help our people get further. I’m very grateful to be here.”
Alyssa’s final advice carries the wisdom of someone who’s already overcome what seemed impossible: “Just never stop, keep moving forward.”
