MIT communication studies student rewarded

Tuesday, 16 October 2007

MIT communication studies student rewarded for commitment to community

Manukau Institute of Technology Communication Studies student Moana Papa (34) received a top scholarship from international women’s organisation Zonta to further her studies.

Zonta South Auckland, as a subsidiary of Zonta International, has awarded Moana a $5000 scholarship. This scholarship is given to women to further their education so they can make a difference in their community – something this mother of two and Cancer survivor has been doing for many years.

“I felt honoured and incredibly happy to receive the scholarship. This was an acknowledgement from Zonta that they believed in me. I felt validated,” says Moana, who has completed her one-year Diploma in Communication Studies but now, thanks in part to the scholarship, will be studying towards her Bachelor of Applied Communication degree.

Receiving the scholarship from South Auckland Zonta is particularly special to the Otara resident who grew up in Mangere/Otahuhu. Many “South Auckland” women have been an inspiration to her, she says, as they too have had to overcome hurdles to pursue their personal and community-driven goals.

“Women of Otara have contributed positively in the education, political, arts, sports and media sectors. The role of women in the Church and charity work is also significant. This is an amazing feat considering the economic and social pressures that women in the community are faced with.

“The need to simply put food on the table can often mean that women as a course of priority put their own needs last. Service to others and putting time and energy towards community or charitable activities is much harder to do. I am thankful that I am in the position to follow my dreams. Others put their dreams on hold.”

However, in pursuing her dream Moana has faced personal challenges in juggling her many community commitments and responsibilities with full time study. Married with two children, she says “there is an element of sacrifice. Time and money are precious commodities. Study can stretch the household resources and finances. There is the added pressure of not wanting to fail as others have sacrificed their time and money so that you can achieve your goal.”

Prior to her becoming a full time student, Moana worked as a Careers Advisor for 10 years at Tangaroa College. Today she works part time as the college’s Community Education coordinator. She has kept up her involvement in local, regional and national community education initiatives, and belongs to organisations including the Community Learning Association, the Auckland Schools Community Education Association and the Manukau TEC ACE Network – Te Kupenga o Manukau.

In the future, Moana plans to use her qualifications and experience to benefit others. “I am keen to work locally using the skills and knowledge I have gained. I see myself working for a cause – probably a not for profit organisation. Or I could travel using my qualification as a ticket to the world! The possibilities are endless…”

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