OMS 150th Q&A – tauira stories from Wellington

As part of our celebrations for the Otago Medical School’s 150th anniversary, some of our talented tauira across Aotearoa New Zealand share their thoughts and reflections. In this Q&A, Toni, Aria and Agnes talk about their time at our Pōneke Wellington campus.

Toni Hoeta (Ngāti Rangi (Ruapehu, Whanganui), Te Ati Haunui-a-Pāpārangi, Ngāti Porou, Te Atiawa (Taranaki))

What led you to study medicine?

My passion for medicine was sparked at a young age, growing up in the rural heart of the Central North Island, Raetihi, where access to healthcare services was extremely limited. I witnessed the health inequities faced by my whānau and community and I felt a deep responsibility to become a bridge between my people and the healthcare system.

What do you enjoy most about studying at Otago?

The people! Otago is full of like-minded, passionate people that love what they do. The science departments have the best people I’ve ever met in my life! I’m very biased but the Anatomy Department is absolute gold.

I really found myself at Otago. I have always loved to understand how the world works and Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka was the place to discover those wonders. Our motto is Sapere Aude, dare to be wise, and Otago really is the place to be curious and bold in the pursuit of understanding.

What are your plans for the future – where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

There are so many different routes that you can take in medicine, it's one of the reasons why I love this degree so much. I also love that medicine isn’t a fixed career, you don’t have to stay on one path. I am currently in the process of becoming a medic in the New Zealand Army but have dreams of being a surgeon, a paediatrician, and also opening up my own practice back at home for my whānau. I have many big dreams in medicine and I hope my time on earth is enough to fulfil them all.

Aria Ikhtiari

What led you to study medicine?

I've been drawn to healthcare since high school, but it wasn’t until university that I realised medicine aligned best with my goals. Hearing stories from my country, Afghanistan, highlighted the severe lack of healthcare and the struggles faced by many. Even within my Afghan community, I see barriers to accessing care. I believe that without good health, we can’t reach our full potential. That belief, along with my passion for supporting underserved communities, led me to choose medicine.

What do you enjoy most about studying at Otago?

What stands out to me at Otago is its well-rounded education, covering not just clinical medicine but also professionalism, ethics, and wellbeing through skills like debriefing. I appreciate the Pōneke campus staff for highlighting health inequities and inspiring us to act.

The diversity in my cohort gives me hope for more culturally responsive future healthcare. I've also valued being part of student associations, where unity and commitment drive meaningful advocacy by our student body in Pōneke.

What are your plans for the future – where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

In 10 years, I hope to volunteer in rural Aotearoa and under-resourced Middle Eastern/Asian countries. I also want to give back to my parents, who sacrificed so much for my future, by helping them pursue the dreams they once set aside and making them proud.

Agnes Valasi

What led you to study medicine?

Reciprocity and service are deeply-rooted values within my culture and family that have guided my pursuit of a career where I can use my strengths to serve the Pacific community – the foundation of my identity. My passion for health sciences and dedication to helping others have led me to study medicine, a path I’ve embraced with the aim of advocating for equitable healthcare and improving health outcomes for Pacific peoples.

What do you enjoy most about studying at Otago?

I have enjoyed being a part of a vibrant student community that has deepened my appreciation for different world views and the diverse range of opportunities unique to Otago that have challenged my comfort zone. These experiences have enriched both my personal and academic growth.

What are your plans for the future – where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

I envision myself as an experienced doctor either in Wellington or Samoa, serving with competency and compassion. I hope to be a skilled diagnostician, confident in my decision-making, and dedicated to providing equitable care. Beyond clinical practice, I hope to be a strong advocate for Pacific peoples and other underserved communities. I also hope to give back by teaching in the medical school and engaging with local colleges to inspire and support the next generation of healthcare professionals.