University of Canterbury Pasifika Education Specialist Tufulasi Taleni was recently awarded the 2017 NZARE Rae Munro Award for Excellence for his master's thesis—the first Pasifika researcher to receive the award.
His thesis—'A true leader masters the art of navigation': The impact of effective leadership in raising engagement and achievement of Pasifika learners in New Zealand schools—focused on the influence that effective educational leadership has on improving outcomes for learners.
UC Associate Professor Jo Fletcher, described Tufulasi as a scholar of exceptional insight, a major force in university affairs, and a tireless advocate for his people.
Photo Courtesy of University of Canterbury
A native of Samoa, Tufulasi came to New Zealand in 1985 to pursue an education and to take on employment to support family back home.
He completed his bachelor's degree at the University of Otago.
Mr. Taleni has contributed to Pasifika education over the years not only as a teacher, but in his role as an education advisor in schools. He has maintained a strong focus on community engagement, events and programs which foster and build effective partnerships between schools and Pasifika communities.
He currently holds the position of Director of Pasifika Development at the College of Education, Health and Human Development, University of Canterbury.
Tufulasi and his family are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and he is passionate about promoting education to parents and youth in his congregation.
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He maintains and fosters relationships with many churches in his quest to help young people. He spends much of his time lifting and encouraging youth to become educated.
"To be an effective leader," Mr. Taleni says, "you must be a servant first. Learn as much as you can while becoming a leader for the future. Learn to care. Learn to love. Learn to respect. Learn to persevere and serve with humanity. Never forget where you belong, and always look after your name."
Read more on Mr. Taleni's award here.