Tristan Tongi Petelo Ah-Sui’s graduation from University of Auckland, marks a collective triumph for his family and wider Pacific community.
Crossing the stage earlier this week with a Bachelor of Arts, Tristan reflects on a journey shaped by sacrifice, service, and the strength of his village. As the second youngest of ten children, he challenges individualistic narratives, embracing a Pacific worldview where leadership is communal and legacy-driven.
“There’s a saying I’ve held onto since my first year,” says Tristan. “Pacific leadership is weaving a fala (traditional mat) you know you’ll never lay on, but you’re content – knowing one day your children will.”
Born to Gaono Ah-Sui Ah-Sui and Tutongi Tafiti, Tristan’s heritage spans Sāmoa, Tonga, China, and the Solomon Islands. His father hails from Vailele and Salelavalu, and his mother from Saleilua Falealili.
Based in Pukekohe, Tristan’s parents have literally been the driving force behind his academic studies.
“It’s been hard-going for us, we’re from Pukekohe, there have been some days he’s needed a lift to come into the city – it’s an effort that has paid off today!” said his father Gaono.
“For our aiga, this is a moment we have been waiting for,” says Tristan.
His academic journey began in high school, where he attended a presentation by the University’s Schools and Community Engagement Team, later joining Dream Fonotaga, a camp founded by the late Fa’anānā Efeso Collins.
Tristan’s leadership blossomed through service. He became a student ambassador for the Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific, co-founded the Village Arts Association, and received both a University of Auckland Blues Award and the Sunpix Pacific Peoples Emerging Leader Award.
He also travelled to Korea and Japan through the 360 International programme.
“Outside of our Pacific circles, leadership is rooted in individualism – where success is something personal and owned,” Tristan explains. “But that’s not how we lead as Pasifika. Our leadership is collective. It’s about moving with purpose and making sure that we don’t rise alone.”
He honoured his grandparents Gaono Taumaoe Ah-Sui and Masina Ah-Sui (paternal), Tuilealiifano Tepa Tafiti and especially his late nana Taulagia Tafiti (maternal) who raised him alongside his mother.
“I carry you with me on the stage as an ode to your tautua and the great sacrifice you have made for us. My degree is yours.”
Now working in the University’s Careers, Development and Employability Services, Tristan is looking ahead to further study.
“Education is about having options and the ability to choose. My university journey has been so inspiring, and I don’t think it’s ending here.”
