Carrying generations forward: Estée Aiolupotea's law journey

Each time Estée Aiolupotea writes her name in full, she carries a gift from her grandfather and a reminder of her ancestral ties to Savai'i, Sāmoa, her homeland and, in Sāmoan tradition, the sacred centre of the universe.

The University of Auckland graduate crossed the stage on 24 September, earning a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts conjoint degree, a milestone built on generations of sacrifice, unwavering family support and a determination to create new pathways for those who follow.

Born in Sāmoa and connected to the villages of Neiafu, Falealupo, Moata'a, Tafitoala, Luatuanu'u, Sa'anapu, Sale'imoa, Fogapoa, Iva and Avao, Aiolupotea migrated to New Zealand as a young child, spending much of her upbringing in South Auckland before later moving to the South Island.

The eldest of four siblings, she graduates with a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts, double majoring in Politics and International Relations and Sociology.
While studying law was always part of her plan, Aiolupotea says the significance of graduating only truly struck her after her final exams.

"As the eldest daughter and eldest grandchild, this is a really big moment for my family," she says.

"I never thought too much about it because I was so focused on finishing. It was only after talking with my parents, siblings, aunties and uncles that I realised what this achievement means to them."

Aiolupotea is the first on her father's side of the family to graduate with a law degree and, as the eldest grandchild on her mother's side, the first to reach the milestone.

"I think about my ancestors," she says. "My mum would remind me of them throughout my studies. Everything I do is for my parents at the end of the day."

Her university journey was shaped by more than academic study. Living away from home helped her build confidence, develop independence and embrace opportunities beyond the classroom.

Volunteering became one of her passions, reflecting the Sāmoan value of tautua (service). She was also a recipient of the Toloa Tertiary Scholarship from the Ministry for Pacific Peoples, which helped to support her studies.

Aiolupotea credits her success to a village of support.

Her parents provided constant encouragement, while her maternal grandmother, Fa'api'omalo Sagaga, became a source of practical and emotional support throughout her time in Auckland.

"My grandmother truly puts the 'grand' in grandmother, she’s been my biggest champion throughout my life and especially during my university years," she says.

"From helping move me into halls of residence each year to driving me where I needed to be, she has always been there. She’s been my rock, providing comfort, strength and unwavering support. Her prayers have protected me, and continue to guide me, every step of the way."

For the past two years, Aiolupotea also lived with her Auntie La while completing her studies.

"These incredible wāhine, alongside my own mother, have been my biggest protectors," she says. "Without them I truly would have felt alone."

She also acknowledges the friendships formed during law school, her colleagues at Te Fale Pouāwhina, where Aiolupotea worked as a Learning Assistant, and also credits the University’s Career Development and Employment Services Māori and Pacific Team, where she works as a Content Creator for providing support.

"Building a village of supportive, like-minded people has been one of the greatest gifts of my university experience."

She had questioned whether law was the right path, but faith, family and perseverance helped her stay the course.

"There were many times where I thought maybe I should take a break or take a gap year," she says. "But I'm glad that I stayed with it and continued."

She hopes her story encourages other Pacific students to pursue their ambitions with confidence.

"My path is not unique. It follows the path paved by many Pasefika who came before me, breaking barriers and creating opportunities for the generations that followed."

She lives by the proverb: "E lele le toloa ae ma'au i le vai" - the toloa bird may fly far and wide, but it always returns to the water.

"No matter where life takes me, my heart finds its way back to Sāmoa," she says. "It gives me the warmth and strength to carry me forward."

Looking ahead, Aiolupotea plans to undertake Professional Legal Studies before being admitted as a barrister and solicitor in 2027. She hopes to build a career in law and policy, with interests in constitutional, family and immigration law.

"Family law was one paper I truly loved because you're helping people when they're at their most vulnerable," she says. "I'd also love to work in immigration law. As Pacific people, migration is such an important part of our story."

The focus for now has been celebrating with family.

"Mum said my graduation would be a family reunion," she says with a laugh.

Above all, she gives thanks to God for His guidance throughout her journey.