Edward | Māngere East, Auckland

“What influenced me was my parents. Growing up as a young teenager, as a young boy, being part of who I am, and what culture I’m from, I’m proud of where I am, and where I stand, because of them.

I originally grew up in Māngere Bridge, growing up wasn’t easy as a young kid. I actually went through different houses when I was little and was adopted at a young age. It was hard for me to find loving and caring parents that took me in, it was a really good blessing, and I’m just thankful for God, for this. All these years, put me on this earth and loved me. 

It was all about culture. It was about going to church, White Sunday-schools, especially me being a part of a Samoan family. They mainly ask, oh am I Māori or,  am I Cook Island but, but I’m originally from Samoa. But they brought me up as a son, so I’m truly honoured and blessed to have those parents. 

Mum would always tell me, Son, never give up, never give up on what you do, and she said keep doing well, aim high in your school. I never did learn well in school. I was a naughty kid back then. Now, I’m starting to grow older, and realising, how life is important, and serious, and you only live once. That’s the key factor that my parents mainly taught me, they were there and supported me. 

If they were here I’d say, Mum and Dad, I love you. Thank you so much for supporting me, loving me and caring for me. I wouldn’t be here today without you, so you guys are truly life-savers, and you guys are really truly lovely people. I really like, enjoy and love being in our church with you guys. Yeah, thank you so much.

So, what my mum and dad taught me was, ‘alofa’. So, ‘alofa’ means love. It means care for one another. Look after your loved ones, and just actually being there for them and that’s what my parents taught in our family, love and culture. Thank you very much.”