Fetaomi Tapu-Qiliho: Pacific studies

March 12th, 2020 | SIT Study Abroad

Samoa, Social and Environmental Change in Oceania

During Women's History Month, SIT is spotlighting some of our extraordinary academic and program directors across the globe who are making history today through their thinking, their words, and their actions.

What’s your academic discipline and what inspired you to pursue it?

Pacific Studies, inspired by my love for my heritage, identity and people

Who is your hero and why do you admire her?

My mother was a phenomenal Samoan immigrant woman, mother, nurse and community advocate who never tired of working for and championing the needs of Pacific Island people in New Zealand.

Why do you teach?

I believe that every opportunity to educate and share about the issues in the Pacific through a framework embedded in Pacific values and knowledge is an opportunity to change the world positively.

What advice (life or academic) would you offer young women?

Make a difference wherever you are!

When you go down in history, what do you want to be known for?