Tevita uses skills to help troubled youth

Tevita Afuhia Kioa moved to New Zealand from Tonga in 1995.

Motivated to help troubled youth, Tevita decided to pursue a career in early childhood education with NZMA.

After securing a Level 4 Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care, Tevita was recruited to work for Oceania Career Academy (OCA), New Zealand’s first Pacific-owned and led private training facility for trades.

OCA is dedicated to Māori and Pacific students who have either dropped out of secondary school, or are currently unemployed.

Tevita can’t help but imagine what it might be like if one of his young clients were a family member. The thought alone brings tears to his eyes.

Since landing his role with OCA, Tevita has helped many Pacific people identify their sense of purpose and secure a stable career.

Tevita feels truly honoured to be in his line of work.