Genesis Kiliata

This Degree Belongs to My Whānau 

For Genesis Kiliata, nursing has always been more than a career aspiration. It’s a calling grounded in service, whakapapa, and a commitment to those she loves. In 2025, Genesis graduated from the Bachelor of Health Sciences Māori Nursing programme at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi, stepping into the health workforce as a Registered Nurse.  

Her journey was shaped by her desire to help others. Of Māori and Samoan descent, she is the first in her immediate whānau to graduate with a degree, a milestone she carries with pride and humility.  

“This degree isn’t just mine, it belongs to my whānau, the people who believed in me, supported me, and walked beside me every step of the way. It's a symbol of love for my tīpuna, a promise that their fight for me to be here wasn’t taken for granted.”  

Genesis was 12 years old when she decided she wanted to become a nurse. While she briefly considered other options in her final year of high school, the impact of COVID-19 reinforced the need for stability and purpose. She says, “Nursing gives me both, and I can continue to build from here.” 

She chose to study at Awanuiārangi because it allowed her to stay close to home and immerse herself in a kaupapa Māori learning environment.  

“I liked the idea of a wānanga that reflected who I am. I wanted to study somewhere that honoured my whakapapa and gave me the tools to serve my people in a culturally grounded way. Being close to home also meant I could lean on my whānau for support, and that made all the difference.” 

Throughout her studies, she found strength in her rōpū and the strong connections they formed with one another.  

“The bonds we built created a strong support system that carried us through the challenges and gave even deeper meaning to celebrating the wins.” 

Genesis acknowledges that her journey was built on the strength and sacrifices of her parents.  

“My parents entered the workforce straight out of school. My mum gained a range of qualifications while working, and, after arriving here from Samoa, my dad worked his way up through labor-intensive jobs. 

“I’m eternally in awe of my dad’s strength and resilience, moving to a foreign country, learning a new language, and applying himself to everything he does. I’m proud to be Samoan, and I carry the villages of Lefagaoali’i, Falelima, Manono, Apolima, and Fusi Safata with me. 

“And my mum, she’s defied all odds. She’s the ultimate example of what it means to rise above. I’m lucky to call her my mum. On her side, I’m proud to be Māori, with whakapapa to Ngāti Awa, Ngāi Tūhoe, Te Rarawa and Ngāpuhi, tying back to my marae Kokohinau and Taiwhakaea. 

“They created opportunities for us, their sacrifice means everything to me, and I carry that legacy with pride.” 

In December 2024, Genesis passed the nursing state exam on her first attempt, and graduation day was unforgettable. 

“Sharing that moment with my whānau was everything. I know graduation day was also very emotional for them. Not many in our family have graduated from tertiary institutes. It was a special day for all of us. 

“When I heard my name and iwi called, the emotion hit me like a wave: ‘I’ve done it!’ My parents, my younger brother, my nana, and my loved ones who have passed were all with me in that moment. 

“I walked across the marae ātea, and when I placed my hands on the kōhatu (stone), I let go of every doubt, every challenge, and every moment I ever questioned myself. I felt proud, grounded, and ready. It’s a feeling no words can truly describe.” 

Now working as a Registered Nurse and pursuing postgraduate study, Genesis remains focused on building a career that reflects the values of her whānau. 

“Working and studying is tough, but I’ve learned I’m capable of more than I thought. I have dreams for my whānau, for their futures, and for what’s possible. My whānau will always be my source of strength and inspiration: manaakitanga, service, and staying true to identity. I am just one part of a bigger legacy, and I know I won’t be the last.”