The Tuasivi College hall was filled with mixed emotions when Alesana Alesana’s name was called out as the dux for Tuasivi College in 2023. The 18-year-old is the school’s head boy for this year, and after nearly twelve months of fulfilling his roles, which came with a lot of expectations and commitments while focusing on his studies, he has now concluded his five-year college journey as the top overall student of the graduating class.
The dux immediately dedicated his success to his parents, Toala Alesana and Aiulu Toala Alesana, whom he referred to as his prayer warriors. When asked about how he felt about his achievement, Mr. Alesana said he was overwhelmed with joy.
“I cannot believe I am here today and that I achieved this result; there are no words to explain how grateful I am. But I am humbled and grateful.
“I didn’t expect this to be the result I would achieve this year. All I did was study hard and give it my all, hoping I would finish this year. But all glory goes back to the man above for His guidance and blessings.”
Alesana admits that his final year in college was no walk in the park.
“This year has been the most challenging year for me. It was tough and full of obstacles because I was given the role to lead the school this year as the Head Boy, which came with a lot of expectations and commitments.
“So I had to juggle schoolwork, my duties as a school prefect, and also my obligations at home. There were times when I felt like giving up because of the load I had to carry.
“However, I was reminded of my parents’ advice to me, that there are challenges in life and that I should never give up. I kept those words close to my heart, and they kept me going.
“The main thing that was on my mind was the support and love of my family, who pushed and motivated me to keep going.”
During an interview with the media, he mentioned that his eyes are now set on becoming an accountant in the future.
The proud mother, Aiulu, was speechless when her opinion was sought about her son’s achievement.
“I am humbled and grateful,” Mrs. Alesana told Samoa Newshub. “There are no words to explain how I feel as a mother, and it’s the same for our family.
“We give thanks to the Lord for His blessings upon our son. As a proud mother, I am happy that all his hard work has paid off.
“We’ve seen his struggle with his studies throughout this year. Sometimes when I see that he is stressed, I tell him to take a break or get some rest because I don’t want him to become ill.
“However, he would insist that he has a lot of work to do, so we never bothered him with chores at home.”
The young man came first in Samoan, English, Computing, Mathematics, Accounting, Economics, and Religious Knowledge. He hails from Faga, Savaii, and his older brother is a sailor, while his sister graduated from Tesese Institute last month.”
