More than a thousand graduates have been celebrated in Unitec’s Autumn Graduation ceremonies.
The day began with a procession from Albert Park to Aotea Centre.
Angela Hodgins flew in from Australia to celebrate daughter Kayla receiving Bachelor of Social Practice
Kayla Hodgins who has successfully completed Bachelor of Social Practice described the occasion as a mix of emotions.
“Very nerve-wracking, exciting. It feels like all the four years have come to something,” the 22-year-old says.
“I wanted to find a field where I could make a positive difference in the community working with Māori and vulnerable people.”
Kayla described Unitec’s School of Social Practice as a family environment where she always felt supported in her studies.
“I’m really proud. I’m trying not to cry,” says her mother Angela who flew in from Australia. “She’s my first child to graduate. I didn’t know if she was going to stick it out. She’s a brilliant girl.”
Samuel Mulipola-Samu graduated Bachelor of Nursing
Samuel Mulipola-Samu was looking forward to receiving his Bachelor of Nursing after what he described as a ‘difficult journey.’
“My mother-in-law passed away. My grandmother passed away earlier this year,” he says. “I get to walk in front of my kids. I hope they are happy and proud. I hope it sets something off in them to achieve some sort of degree.”
The father of five is currently working at Waitākere Hospital’s in-patient unit.
The first ceremony recognised 378 graduates in Bridgepoint, Community Studies, Environmental and Animal Sciences, Healthcare and Social Practice.
Student President Rayyan Hassan addressed the packed auditorium encouraging them to continue adhering to Te Noho Kotahitanga, the partnership on which Unitec is based and its principles as they entered their careers.
“Stay true to who you are and the values that matter to you, while also taking care of yourself and supporting those around you. Kindness, empathy, and generosity can make a big difference. Don’t ever doubt your ability to create positive change and make the world a better place,” Mr Hassan says.
Master of Creative Practice Kate Serebrianskaia with her recent exhibition Beyond the Surface at DEPOT Artspace
The second ceremony was attended by more than four hundred graduates in Applied Business, Architecture and Creative Industries.
Kate Serebrianskaia received Master of Creative Practice. Originally from Siberia, Kate already held qualifications in linguistics, foreign languages and visual arts before moving to New Zealand and studying contemporary painting at School of Creative Industries.
“Throughout my time at Unitec I was surrounded by kind, supportive, and compassionate people – talented creatives and genuinely good human beings,” Kate, who creates art under the name Kate Silver, says.
“Studying for a Master’s was challenging and deeply fulfilling. My studies at Unitec significantly shaped who I am today as an artist, and I am truly grateful for this experience. Through this programme I discovered my authentic artistic voice and a unique pictorial language to express my personal perception of the world.”
Kate’s latest exhibition, Beyond the Surface, concluded at DEPOT Artspace in Devonport, Auckland in mid-March. She has also exhibited at Foenander Galleries in Parnell and Artor Contemporary in Ponsonby.
The third and final ceremony of the day was as much an acknowledgement of 248 graduates in Trades and Services, Building Construction, Computing, Electrical and Applied Technology, as it wasa chance to applaud those who encouraged them to stay the course.
Unitec & MIT Executive Director Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga quoting the Samoan proverb: ‘E le sili le ta’i, nai lo le tapua’I’ – ‘the people supporting are just as important as those who are working.’
The ceremonies were the pinnacle of six days of celebration which included Pacific Graduation Celebration, Kahurangi and functions held by Unitec schools.
Families celebrating the achievements of their successful graduates
It was a fabulous day celebrating our graduates and also the fantastic teaching, support and aroha offered up to students that got them across the line. There are many heart-warming stories of challenges being conquered. Thanks to everyone who had a role to get the students across the line. Thanks to the many volunteers who pulled off another great Unitec Graduation and especially to Ruth Marsters and her team as the key organisers of the event.