Tongan healer, writer and entrepreneur, Elizabeth Kaloumaira : “If you’re following your passion, it will never feel like work”
Tongan healer, writer and entrepreneur, Elizabeth Kaloumaira : “If you’re following your passion, it will never feel like work”
Tongan healer, writer, and entrepreneur, Elizabeth Kaloumaira, talks about dropping out of university to follow her passion. She believes that university is not the only pathway for Pacific youth and that it's okay to forge your own path.
Tell us about your background.
I am a New Zealand born Tongan who spent the first 18 years of my life in Tonga. Naturally, as the eldest of 7, I was tasked with the responsibility of taking care of my siblings and setting a good example.
After high school, my family and I moved to Christchurch, New Zealand. I didn't know what I wanted to do at the time but always felt an immense pressure to go to university like most Pacific Islanders. I studied towards a Law and Political Science degree and dropped out half way through as I felt I wasn't being true to myself and was living a lie.
The hardest decision was just taking that first step and dropping out of university. It was a difficult time in my life as I felt like such a failure and the hardest part was feeling like I had let my family down.
I come from a long line of healers and never in my wildest dreams did I think I would end up being one. It took years of soul searching and heartache to finally realize that my purpose was always there, hidden in plain sight.
Tongan healer, writer and entrepreneur, Elizabeth Kaloumaira : “If you’re following your passion, it will never feel like work”
Why is it critical for Pacific youth to follow their career dreams?
As the founder of Soar Health and Wellness, my mission is to help people find their wings i.e. to find their purpose in life. I believe that we are all born with innate gifts, and it is our life purpose to find out what that is. When we live a purpose-filled life we will be happier, fulfilled and soar!
What insight would you like to share with people who may decide to bypass college and go straight into a specialized field?
Find professional programs and certificate programs. Look into short-term certificates or programs if you are looking to enter into a specialized field.
Stay true to your vision. Not everyone will see your vision or your dream. It is God's gift to you, so it is your responsibility to see that vision through and follow your dreams.
Surround yourself with people who inspire you and find a mentor to help you achieve your goals. You will face many struggles and hardships but you must never give up. It will be worth all the trials and tribulations. A mentor will come in handy to support you and guide you. The people who believe in you will also help keep you on track.