With a passion for helping young people flourish, Aqela (pronounced An-ge-la), our Information and Enrolments Advisor is the friendly face you’ll first meet when enquiring or enrolling at UCOL Whanganui.
From answering queries about programmes and putting you in touch with the right staff on campus, to helping incoming students with the application and enrolment process, Aqela makes the transition into tertiary study an enjoyable and smooth experience.
Aqela isn’t just the friendly face answering questions and putting you in touch with the right staff; she’s connected with our current students too, as her caring nature makes her the perfect person to help our Te Mana Tauira Student Success team triage wellbeing and academic support requests.
A key highlight of her role is seeing students' growth and knowing she has been a part of their study journey towards success.
“We have so many different types of people who have taken the opportunity, whether it’s our young people, others who are retraining, or those who lived their life a bit before taking the leap to study for the first time. It’s my privilege to watch them grab these opportunities, help them along their journey, and then to see their success at the end; it truly warms my heart.”
Many will also recognise Aqela from community events and expos promoting UCOL Whanganui programmes. She is an integral part of the local Pasifika community as a Fijian born and bred, and as a passionate advocate for UCOL she is always encouraging our rangatahi to seize the opportunities available.
Outside of UCOL, Aqela loves to explore and travel Aotearoa New Zealand, visit family and friends, enjoy Fiji’s traditional kava ceremonies with friends, and make memories connecting with others at community events.