The cover of our 2025 USP Prospectus features a poignant image of Tusiata Lemuelu with her mother, showcasing the traditional Samoan tapa they crafted together. This image, with Tusiata’s side in vibrant color and her mother’s side in timeless black and white, beautifully captures the essence of our campaign, “Our People, Our Stories.”
Our People, Our Stories is a celebration of the rich tapestry of lives that make up The University of the South Pacific community. It highlights the unique journeys of our students, alumni, and staff, and underscores the power of storytelling in passing down wisdom, culture, and inspiration from generation to generation.
The image on our cover embodies this tradition of knowledge transfer. Tusiata’s mother imparts the age-old art of tapa making, symbolising the enduring legacy of cultural heritage and the transformative impact of education. It serves as a powerful visual metaphor for how USP nurtures the growth of its students, enabling them to carry forward the values and wisdom of their forebears while forging new paths of their own.
In the Pacific, storytelling is more than a tradition; it is a legacy. It is through these shared stories that we learn, grow, and inspire the next generation. At USP, we are proud to be part of this continuum, fostering an environment where our people of today become the stories of tomorrow.
Below, we share the remarkable journeys of six individuals whose stories embody the spirit of “Our People, Our Stories.”
Meet Our People
Savai’i, Samoa
Began her journey with a deep-rooted passion for agriculture, inspired by her hardworking parents. Her story is one of determination and community spirit.
Taveuni, Fiji
On track to become the first female Freshwater Scientist in the Pacific. Her journey inspires a new generation of scientists, showing how passion can turn challenges into groundbreaking accomplishments.
Santa Isabel, Solomon Islands
Transformed his life through education, from manual labor to earning a PhD and now shaping future leaders as a lecturer. His story is one of resilience and lifelong learning.
Kadavu, Fiji
Navigated his way from a receptionist to a Sports Manager with P&O Cruises, embodying the spirit of Pacific hospitality and dedication. His journey illustrates the impact of perseverance and professional growth.
Togatapu, tonga
Stands at the forefront of climate justice. During her time at USP Emalus Campus, she and her classmates explored the application of environmental law to the climate crisis, starting a movement that amplifies the Pacific voice in the fight against climate change. Her story is one of advocacy, collaboration, and commitment to a sustainable future.
Bate Tiaeki
Kiribati
From Kiribati, Bate Tiaeki highlights the erosion of history and culture. His story explores the balance between tradition and modernity to preserve the Pacific Way.
