Yesterday, the MALOSI team hosted an event called "Project Tomorrow", supported by Pasifika Futures, showcasing the collaborative effort to uplift Pasifika youth and ensure they have the tools and opportunities to succeed. 

The event focused on inspiring Pacific youth to pursue higher education and brought together high school students for a day filled with interactive learning and empowerment. Facilitated by the MALOSI team and student volunteers from the university, the event was a demonstration of the potential that lies within Pacific youth. 

Co-Directors of MALOSI, Noelani Ah-Chong and Paris Seu, say it is important to provide opportunities for Pacific youth to feel supported in their transition from high school to university.  

"We’re an outreach programme that goes into low decile schools with a high percentage of Pasifika students, encouraging them to pursue higher education. Many students think coming to university is an unattainable goal so we encourage them to see it as a reality," explains Ah-Chong.   

Understanding the unique challenges that Pasifika youth face, the MALOSI Project emphasises the importance of cultural and social support in the academic journey.  

"It’s about empowering Pacific youth. we do this because we believe in the potential that our Pacific youth have," says Seu. 

"We place a lot of emphasis on the fact that we understand the experience of Pacific students trying to think about their next steps. Our purpose is to help students find their way.”   

The MALOSI Project's success lies not only in its ability to inspire but also in its deep understanding of the experiences of Pacific students. Their empathetic approach ensures that students are not just told what to do but are guided in a way that respects their unique cultural background and personal challenges.