Acknowledging the ongoing leadership of Anahila Lose Kanongata and Sosepa Hausia-Schaumkel in guiding Tongan students through Fakatoukatea and meaningful national experiences.
Fakatoukatea at Onehunga High School continues to be a space where Tongan student leadership is intentionally nurtured through culture, education, and service. This work is led by Onehunga alumni Anahila Lose Kanongata and Sosepa Hausia-Schaumkel, whose 11 years of teachership reflect a deep and ongoing commitment to supporting young people.
Each year, Year 9 Tongan students are identified and guided through a series of workshops that include university readings, leadership development, and cultural grounding. Through this process, students are encouraged to understand their identity, responsibilities, and potential. The programme builds towards a culminating experience that is fully funded by Anahila, Sosepa, and past Onehunga alumni students, ensuring access and opportunity for all involved.
As part of this year’s programme, students travelled to Wellington where they visited Parliament, Victoria University of Wellington, and the National Library of New Zealand. During the visit, they observed Question Time from the Speaker’s Gallery, engaged with spaces of national significance, and learned about the history and importance of the Treaty of Waitangi, including viewing the document itself. They were also welcomed by Members of Parliament from across parties, reflecting the respect carried within their presence and the kaupapa they represent.
Experiences such as these connect learning beyond the classroom and provide students with a deeper understanding of leadership, governance, and service. They also strengthen the relationship between identity and future pathways, allowing students to see themselves within spaces that shape the nation.
Reflecting on the day, Anahila Lose Kanongata shared that this was more than a visit, it was tauhi in practice. Tauhi fonua, standing in the spaces that shape the nation and understanding the foundations that guide it. Tauhi va, nurturing relationships and carrying themselves with respect and purpose.
She described how the students moved with presence, curiosity, and quiet confidence, understanding that they carry more than themselves, they carry their kainga, their stories, and their future. Moments like these anchor the journey, and she acknowledged the parents and kau tauhi fanau for the way their children represented them.
There is deep gratitude to Anahila Lose Kanongata and Sosepa Hausia-Schaumkel for their vision, generosity, and continued service. Their commitment to fully funding this experience, alongside past Onehunga alumni, ensures that students are given meaningful opportunities that many would not otherwise access. Their work continues to empower the next generation of Tongan leaders.
