CJ Lenati

From Determination to the Airwaves 

A devoted father of five and provider for his young whānau, CJ Lenati carries his Tongan and Māori heritage with pride. Born in Wellington in 1977 and raised in Parnell, Auckland by two loving parents, he speaks openly about his journey, challenges, and triumphs. 

CJ learned about responsibility, resilience, and the importance of whānau from an early age. He reflects on his gratitude for places like food banks that are there to help people in times of need. 

“I believe my upbringing had a lot to do with preparing me for full-time study and the challenges I had to overcome. 

“Juggling part-time work, whānau responsibilities, and study wasn’t easy, and I went to our local food bank more than once to help make ends meet—but I wouldn’t call it a low point.  

“Those times were very humbling, but they made me grateful. Grateful for places like this that help families who are struggling.” 

CJ has a passion for media and graduated with the New Zealand Diploma in Radio Broadcasting (Level 5) from Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi. He now works as an audio engineer and editor at Radio Waatea. 

“I actually pictured myself working for one of the big commercial stations, but my journey led me somewhere far more meaningful. I walked in here and realised that this is what I’d trained for.  

“Like Awanuiārangi, this place has a heart for people. You’re not a number here; you’re a person, and treated like whānau. 

“I work across multiple shows, and I'm also helping to grow new projects, including Te Pō Waiata, a show designed to uplift and accompany our listeners through the night.” 

His decision to study wasn't just about professional growth; it was also about showing his tamariki what perseverance looks like. 

“When I graduated this year, I just wanted to show my daughters that their father can succeed in what he set out to do. I wanted to be that example for my kids first. 

“Seeing my kids smiling when they watched me receive my diploma was everything.” 

CJ encourages other Pasifika to pursue higher education through Awanuiārangi. 

“We sometimes think study is only for certain types of people, but it’s for anyone who wants to grow, especially our Pasifika people. 

“The Wānanga wants to get to know you and help you achieve your dreams. It’s hard, yes, but after the hard mahi, you get the treats.”