PASIFIKA: NEW MOTHERHOOD AND STUDY

TALEI JACKSON (FIJI/ENGLAND), AUT MIDWIFERY LECTURER/PASIFIKA LIAISON, COLLEGE PASIFIKA REPRESENTATIVE

navigating new motherhood and study

Tyra Fitisemanu (Samoa/Niue), an AUT midwifery student in her final year of the degree, added new motherhood to an already full-time schedule last year. Talei Jackson catches up with her about the joys and challenges of her journey.

Why do you want to be a midwife?

My dream of becoming a midwife stemmed from my upbringing. I come from a family of seven children and have a large extended family. Seeing my hapū aunties and cousins growing up always fascinated me and it was empowering to witness them grow and nurture their pēpi. Once I knew about the scope of a midwife, I never had a Plan B. Many of my peers chose midwifery because their own midwife or midwifery experience inspired them and initially I couldn’t relate. But since having my daughter in 2021, I now understand. I had an inspiring Pasifika midwife, who supported my wish of birthing in a primary unit, and the experience only strengthened my passion further.

After having your first baby last year, you continued with your studies. How was that?

It was hard, but I would do it all over again! Growing up, I saw my mum work full-time, study part-time and care for seven kids, so I felt like I was born to do this. I’m not sugar coating it - having a baby during the degree, or having kids prior to starting, is tough. I remind myself that studying is temporary and the reward at the end will not only benefit myself, but my family and wider community. I have great family support. Like the saying goes, ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ and I’m so grateful for the village that helps me raise mine. My transition into my final year, as a mother, has also been more manageable due to the support I receive from my lecturers, especially our Pasifika liaisons. My peers, who have become my sisters, have also been my back bone.

What have been your highlights through the degree?

Working in partnership with wāhine, especially Pasifika mama, as they embark on a life changing event. Another recent highlight has been working alongside a Pasifika LMC in a primary unit. Prior to this, much of my clinical experience has been in a hospital setting. Having the opportunity to work in a primary setting, facilitating physiological birth, has made the journey more special.

What have been your challenges through the degree?

Navigating the balance of being a mum with placement, assessments and social life has been challenging. Covid has also been a significant challenge and disrupted placements - it’s impacted the midwifery workforce and it can be hard working in such a stressful environment at times.

Do you have any advice for Pasifika students studying midwifery?

Find a group of like-minded peers; they will be your shoulder to cry on when you feel like you’re drowning, but also your motivators. Reach out for extra support from your Pasifika educators too - they’re there to help you, and no question is a dumb question. One mistake I’ve made is being too scared to apply for scholarships. I encourage my Pasifika peers to apply and take advantage of that extra support.

Lastly, recognise the importance of networking. It’s helpful to meet midwives and know who you might like to work with on placement or after you qualify.

What are your plans following graduation?

I plan to complete the new graduate programme at ADHB, as I’m a recipient of an A+ Trust ADHB Pacific Midwifery Scholarship. Once I’ve gained more experience, I’d love to work as an LMC. square

Tyra and daughter Alayah-Marie