Yazaki Foundation Scholarship Program - Wednesday 6th May 2026

Hinzugefügt: 2026-05-14

[00:00:05][music] Natural Samour water. The taste of nature.

[00:00:17][music] [music] >> [music] [music] >> Good morning.

[00:00:57]Yeah.

[00:00:59]You might My foundation Yeah.

[00:01:48]help [snorts] the chief of English speakers this point time like to welcome all the recipients of the secret foundation scholarship also parents who made themselves available and on that note I would like to make special note of some of the distinguished guests who represent the uh parents today we'd like to acknowledge the presence of uh the SNC Japanese ambassador to Samo.

[00:02:31][applause] And without further ado, I know everybody uh wants to get off of the ceremony and I would like at the stage to uh as occasion we start in in a prayer.

[00:03:02]for something.

[00:03:24]Foreign speech. Foreign speech.

[00:03:41]foundation.

[00:03:55]Amen.

[00:04:06]So without further ado on If I'm winner I will Fore.

[00:05:26][clears throat] Um I'd also like to welcome um your excellency the ambassador for Japan to Samo your excellency.

[00:05:54]It is always a pleasure to see you at our events. I think this is the second um event of this kind that you have kindly attended and it always makes it even more special for us.

[00:06:08]Thank you also to the resident representative of Da You have been in some for some time and I know that you are very busy and you are always busy doing good things for us and we are very grateful. Um the other thing I always notice about um the resident representative for JA is how he always tried to give us one touch wherever you can. I remember seeing you at an event where all the Sons were wearing white.

[00:06:41]You also wore white and this morning I see you're wearing and it we don't we don't miss it. We all see it and we appreciate how much you respect our welcome managing director.

[00:07:05]and we've been working for a little bit over a year and very very grateful for for the work that you do for the Zuma Foundation and for extending the benefits of this to yeah who have been working with us from as well and I understand that you're leaving and I I see your replacement is here as well and we welcome you and we look forward to continue to work with you.

[00:07:56]I will never forget you. Yes. Because wherever good things are running smoothly, there's always someone who is running crazy to make sure that everything happens inside and out.

[00:08:09]And before I move on to what I was supposed to be here for, I want to acknowledge uh Patrick, my colleague here that is the contact point for Yasaki Foundation uh here in Samo and who has supported our scholars for the past three years and going on 20.

[00:08:44]>> [applause] >> So it is with deep joy that I stand here to congratulate the recipients of the Yazaki Kuna Foundation scholarships for 2026.

[00:09:02]Uh, give yourself some [applause] Things are getting more and more expensive.

[00:09:32]We see the different ways that the Lord provides for us, his faithfulness, his goodness, and his kindness.

[00:09:42]So those are my congratulatory.

[00:09:45][laughter] I love scholarships because they're based on merit. They're not based on who you know, who your mom is, who your dad is, who your fool is, what your surname is. No, it's based on you. It's based on you and what you've done, what you've done when nobody else has.

[00:10:16]It is you that sees whether you're working part-time, whether you're the only one working in your family, whether you your parents work, your parents don't work, whether somebody's on seasonal work, someone has been helping you and paying for your school fees. But here we have this opportunity and you got it. You got it with your pencil and your pen and your twink and you're only on your phone with the help of your lecturers and the support that's given by the university.

[00:10:53]But most of all, What is your Yeah.

[00:11:36]It's not how you start, it's how you end.

[00:11:41]And if nothing else, be a finisher. Be a finisher. Don't just finish it. Finish it well.

[00:11:52]First you are working.

[00:11:59]You're going to be a family. Thank you for the opportunity. God bless you foundation. Yeah. God bless you.

[00:12:09][applause] Hello, my name is Open.

[00:12:27]Thank you.

[00:12:33]That was very moving opening remarks.

[00:12:36]Thank you uh and next on our program we'd like to call on sex uh the ambassador Ben Yaro Suki for his address for Mike.

[00:12:56]Congratulations [applause] [clears throat] and uh it's privilege for me as an ambassador to have generous support from thinking of doing this And it's what?

[00:13:45][applause] Next on our dinner, we have Congratulations [applause] to our and she will be leaving some more shortly.

[00:14:14]>> So hello Hava and very good morning. So it is my great great pleasure to say a few words at the Yadaki Kisna Foundation 2026 USP scholarship awards presentation ceremony.

[00:14:29]So it is delighted to see that the relationship with the USP and Japan is now extending beyond the inter intergovernment level and the Yazaki Kisa Foundation scholars for students at the USB are one of the great example and the fact that many outsting students uh the do not um have have give up their studies due to financial constraints and are able to study at USB. So represented a significant contribution to samo society and I heard that the um theaki foundation scholars is a very severe you know competition. So you won the scholarship so you can be a proud to be aisma foundation hold scholarship holders. So I hope that the uh your academic journey may well be a challenging yes but however I encourage you to keep going until graduation.

[00:15:46]So and also I would be grateful if all Yasaki Foundation scholarship students could uh deepen their interest in Japan.

[00:15:58]So the US Samoa campus library uh received a donation of books on Japan and also the Japanese embassy Angelica uh recruit students to study in Japan every year. So I hope you will consider study in Japan in the future after graduation.

[00:16:21]So I think um that becoming a Yazaki Kisna Foundation scholarship holders will open up even more opportunities for your future. So I hope that the scholarship of Yazaki Kisna foundation will contribute further development of Samoa and stren the relationship between Japan and Samoa. Thank you very much.

[00:16:48][applause] Now we come to the part of program. Um before I I ask um um our um managing director the Mr. Teawa I just like to maybe ask to introduce them individually before and to tell you more about the general research and Mr. [applause] Mr. the man director for um however we're very sad that he will be leaving us shortly but we like to thank him for all that you've done for a short period of hearing at a few people by Japan um [applause] we will also [snorts] we got good news not too bad news but we got good news as We've got this president um and the busy lady that we have here from Japan who's also been traveling back and forth.

[00:18:10]Thank you very much.

[00:18:14]>> I I still here I've been here for a while so I was for a while.

[00:18:22]Thank you. So at this stage would like to call upon uh OA to come and deliver speech for today. However, I may I ask for to make sure that our program flows.

[00:19:00]Dr. J.

[00:19:18]management director of Yadaki Kina Foundation.

[00:19:23]We are pleased to be able to hold our s ceremony today.

[00:19:28]This ceremony has been held since 2024 for the purpose of awarding recipients of Yazaki Foundation scholarship.

[00:19:42]We would like to express our gratitude to Dr. summer campus director of the University of South Pacific and everyone involved in the university for their efforts in holding this ceremony today.

[00:20:04]I also like to extend my deepest appreciation to his excellency, ambassador of the embassy of Japan and to Mr. Yumiko Asakima, president represented representative of the Samoa branch of the Japan International Cooperation Agency, Ja.

[00:20:33]We are truly honored by their presence here today and deeply grateful for the warm and inspiring words with the students and with Yazaki Kuna Foundation.

[00:20:51]I would like to briefly explain the background of the our scholarship program.

[00:20:58]This is the eighth year since our foundation was established with a donation from Yazaki Corporation, a Japanese company that manufactures automotive parts such as wire harnesses, combination rators, and electric cables.

[00:21:19]Yazak cooperation policy and philosophy is a cooperation instead in the world and a cooperation needed by society.

[00:21:33]Under this policy, Yazaki Corporation has developed its business with a consistent desire to contribute to the so society through manufacturing and currently operates in about 46 countries and regions employing over 210,000 people around the world.

[00:21:59]Jaki Samoa was established and began operations in 1991.

[00:22:07]The company produced automotive parts for export to Australia.

[00:22:13]However, changes in the business environment forced the company to close its operation in 2017.

[00:22:25]Upon withdrawing from Samoa, Yazaki decided to establish Yazaki Kisna Foundation in 2018 to give back to the people of Samoa for their support to Yazaki over the past 26 years.

[00:22:45]Yazaki Kiza Foundation is currently engaged in two major activities in summer.

[00:22:53][snorts] One is a scholarship program for university students.

[00:22:59]The other is providing grants to support small business in Samo.

[00:23:06]We have provided grants to wiggly women in business development incap Samoa and Samoa Recycling and the waste management association.

[00:23:25]Samoa Conservation Society, SGS, Business of Safi Association, BOSA, and Samoa Umbrella for non-governmental organization, Sango.

[00:23:43]The number of grants provided for small business is expected in increase in the future.

[00:23:52]In 2026, Yazaki Kina Foundation offered 50 scholarships in total.

[00:24:04]After the interview process, we have decided to provide our scholarship to 14 bachelor and one master students.

[00:24:18]Kisuna means bond or connection in Japanese.

[00:24:24][clears throat] The name of our foundation reflects our desire to connect Japan and Samo and to support the development of Samo.

[00:24:37]I would like to conclude my speech with hoping that our kisa will last long through the Yazaki Ka Foundation's scholarship program.

[00:24:50]Thank you very much.

[00:24:54][applause] foreign.

[00:25:11]Yeah.

[00:25:14][cough] [applause] >> [applause] [applause] [snorts] >> My name is from the villages And to the smile of sometimes.

[00:26:23][applause] >> It is with a deep grateful heart that I stand before you today to acknowledge and thanks Foundation for awarding me this one years. [snorts] I am truly humbled by this opportunity to be entrusted with such support is not something I take lightly. It is a gift that carries public privilege and responsibility.

[00:26:53]This scholarship is more than just a financial assistance.

[00:26:58]It is a powerful contribution to my potential my journey and my future.

[00:27:04]I would like to sincerely thank the Yasaki Simma Foundation for its commitment to empowering individuals through education and for believing in students like myself.

[00:27:17]Your generosity opens doors that may have otherwise remained out of reach and it inspires us to strive for excellence not only for ourselves but for our communities as well.

[00:27:32]I would also like to respectfully [clears throat] acknowledge the leadership and support of USB campus especially campus director Dr. our coordinator of Patrick encouragement guidance and belief in students like myself. Your support has been instrumental in helping me reach this milestone and I am sincerely grateful.

[00:28:04]This opportunity motivates me to work harder to learn more and to give back in meaningful ways. I am excited and determined to make the most of this experience to grow both academically and personally and to represent the values that this scholarship stands for.

[00:28:25]resilient, patient, and service. Once again, thank you for your kindness, your trust, and your investment in my future. I am truly honored, and I look forward to making you proud.

[00:28:47]>> [applause] [snorts] >> this. Let's call on Ryan B.

[00:29:36]for the president.

[00:29:42]town of Suzuki, Mr. Hosa, managing director of the Yazaki Foundation, representatives of the JA office here in Samoa, director of the USP campus, Dr. Staff and students of USP, families and secrets.

[00:30:04]Um, standing here today, I am reminded of how very fortunate I am. Being a recipient of the Yazaki Kazuma Foundation scholarship for a second year is truly a blessing and one I do not take lightly. I am deeply honored and very grateful and I know I share these sentiments with every student here today.

[00:30:26]Um well though my degree is not yet complete it has already opened doors for me that I've only ever dreamed of and I can only imagine how many more opportunities will open once it's completed and for that I've seen YPF for making this journey possible. I am incredibly grateful to my family, my husband and my children, my mom, my in-laws, as well as all my teachers, mentors, friends, the CEO and staff of the Samo National Fund, my workplace, members of the law society in my entire village who stand behind me. Your guidance, encouragement, and support have shaped who I [laughter] am today.

[00:31:08]with uh every achievement I reach is built on the foundation you have helped to lay and I proudly share this privilege with you all to the foundation for your continued support and belief in my academic journey to the USP for facilitating this for us.

[00:31:29]Um I also extend my sincere thanks to the selection committee of FI Patrick um for your time and commitment to supporting students like us. I also want to thank our friends who are leaving us.

[00:31:48]Uh thank you for all your support and your assistance throughout the years. I wish you all the best uh in whatever life has in store for you. And I'm very happy to meet my new friend.

[00:31:58]five years after this. So if you just call me next year [laughter] um last week I just want to share a story. Last week I had the privilege to uh attending a session um facilitated by the sun society that they invited Judge Fusa to speak about legal ethics of the profession.

[00:32:18]um he reflected on the standards expected of boys and um the importance of purpose, value in the relationship.

[00:32:27]He reminded us the law degree is ultimately just a piece of paper and unless we add value to it through integrity, service and responsibility, it means nothing. Uh he also reminded us how privileged we are to receive support for our education something many people around the world do not have access to and that message truly resonated with me. So to my fellow recipients today uh let us make the most of this opportunity. Uh how fortunate are we to uh you know have access to quality and free education made possible through the generosity of people like um so thank you once again uh for this incredible honor and so to echo the words of Joshua Foundation for contributing to my purpose my value and my significance of >> [applause] >> Next we have Pio.

[00:33:36]Can we stop by?

[00:34:01]>> [applause] >> This is the day that the Lord has made.

[00:34:10]I will rejoice and be glad in it. Tala and warm greetings to you all. My name is Felicia.

[00:34:19]I'm 19 years old and I'm currently pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in both accounting and management. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Lazaki Kisuma Foundation for awarding me this scholarship. I'm truly grateful and blessed in standing here today. I would also like to thank my family for their constant support and encouragement.

[00:34:45]This scholarship is not only a financial blessing but also a reminder that education is a powerful tool. It opens doors, creates opportunities, and allows us to build a better future, not only for ourselves, but for our communities.

[00:35:01]I'm committed to working hard and making most of this opportunity and may God bless you all.

[00:35:10][applause] Next, we like to call on Gabriel Montana, Bachelor of Law.

[00:35:44]Sorry for all the stress undersu.

[00:35:50]My name is Gabriel Matas and it is a privilege to stand before you today as one of the 2020 recipients of the Saki Foundation scholarship. I would like to begin by expressing my sincere appreciation to the student foundation of Japan and all for their generous support. This scholarship is more than financial assistance. It is a profound investment in our potential, our responsibility and future we are being entrusted to shape. There is a song on say in my life. It reminds us that meaningful success is never achieved among the collective guidance and sacrifices of many. Today I stand as a reflection of that truth. I would like to acknowledge my sister, my friends, my family as my family. Most importantly, I wish to acknowledge my parents. Your sacrifices, guidance, and unwavering support have been the foundation of my journey. Everything I received carries the values you have instilled in me. I stand here today because of the fact that I have shame.

[00:37:00]As a bachelor student at the USB sambar, I recognize that this opportunity comes with both privilege and responsibility.

[00:37:08]The bath labor gradually resilience. With this award I have received, I am committed to pursuing my studies with purpose and to using my education to contribute meaningfully to my community and to some more to my fellow recipients. Congratul Congratulations. This guidance honor with humility and intention remembering that we represent not only ourselves but also those who have supported us along the way. In closing my skin, my deepest crackers, I accept it with a sense of responsibility and commitment to make it count.

[00:37:45]We are all in the same community and moving forward together for our families in our village and friends.

[00:37:54]God bless you all.

[00:38:00]Next we have Maria Ma, a swimmer also special.

[00:38:29]God stood >> all the time and >> all the time.

[00:38:33]>> Yes, God is always good. Even this special day where he made so let us rejoice and be glad in it. Warm greetings and sava to you all. My name is Maria Makulatua, a beautiful female of 20 years of age here with a beautiful village of the Vladim currently pursuing bachelor of laws and now in my second year of study here in the University of the South Pacific Al campus.

[00:39:07]Today in this special occasion I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the government and people of Japan especially China and the Kisuna Foundation Committee for awarding me this scholarship.

[00:39:22]Receiving this scholarship is truly a lifechanging opportunity. As a student pursuing my studies, it has ease the financial burden on my family and allowed me to focus fully on my education. More importantly, it has inspired me to strive for excellence and to work harder towards achieving my goals of becoming a professional who can contribute meaningfully to my community and my country of sound.

[00:39:53]The Kisuma Foundation represents more than just financial support. It symbolizes friendship, partnership, and a shared commitment between Japan and the Pacific region. including this country and also the University of the South.

[00:40:11]I feel honored to be a part of this connection and I carry a strong sense of responsibility to make the most of this opportunity. In the future, I hope to use the knowledge and skills I gain to give back to society and strengthen the relationship between SA and Japan.

[00:40:43]Once again, thank you very much for your generosity and support.

[00:40:48]God bless.

[00:40:53][applause] May I call on also Hello, the ambassador of Japan of the YA Foundation, the director and staff of the Samu campus. the chart of present our guest and my fellow students. Good morning. My name is Nurse and it is truly an honor to stand here before you today. First of all, I give thanks to God for his guidance and blessing which made this moment possible. I am deeply grateful to Foundation for this scholarship and I am thankful for the USB and my family and friends for their support.

[00:42:03]This scholarship has opened doors for me. It allows me to focus more on my studies and worry less about financial support.

[00:42:12]Growing up, my dad has been the main source of income for our family. He works very hard to support us and to pay for my scholarship not only just support my education but studies also support my family at the same time.

[00:42:31]It also motivates me to keep doing my best knowing that someone believes in my potential and support my journey. I live by this moment faith over fear. It means that when you fall you can get up again.

[00:42:47]Staying down is failure accepted.

[00:42:50]Getting back up is faith activated.

[00:42:53]I sincerely thank the Saki Kuma Foundation for his friendship. It gives me strength to keep moving forward with faith over fear. I will continue to work hard, achieve my goal, and use what I have learned in law to serve my community and stand for justice. Thank you from call on Mr. Fel of Arts in India Job.

[00:43:32][applause] My name is Nita. I am 21 years young from Salamu and Lana Sav.

[00:44:02]I am currently a thirdyear Bachelor of Arts student majoring in education and geography.

[00:44:09]When I received the email from Patrick about this ceremony and saw that I would be speaking as number seven, then I remembered that seven is often seen as a lucky number and it reminded me of how lucky I am to be here today as a recipient of the Yasaki Ki Sununa Foundation scholarship.

[00:44:31]First, I want to thank God for this opportunity. Being selected again for the Yasaki Sunna Foundation scholarship is truly a blessing for me. This is my second year receiving this support and it continues to help me greatly in my studies to the Asaki Ksuna Foundation amazing team and the people of Japan.

[00:44:55]Thank you for your continued support and generosity.

[00:44:58]As a student from the big island of Sabai, I truly value this opportunity because I know it is not something that every student gets to experience.

[00:45:10]Being a second year recipient, it is something I never take for granted. It reminds me that I am trusted and supported by people who believe in my potential. This support has helped me not only financially but also mentally and emotionally knowing that I am not walking this journey alone and your supportive staff also thank you for organizing and securing opportunities like this and for making this scholarship possible to ease the financial burden and support our studies.

[00:45:54]Thank you for your endless prayers and support. Your strength and belief in me continue to guide me through my studies and I am truly grateful to my fellow recipients.

[00:46:08]Congratulations to all of you.

[00:46:14]It is an honor to share this journey with you all. Thank you once again.

[00:46:24][applause] We have cyclone. So we have three special.

[00:46:52]>> Hey.

[00:46:54]Yeah.

[00:46:59]Speech. Speech.

[00:47:24]for Yeah. in town. Yeah. My name is Cyclone.

[00:47:44]I'm 20 years young and I'm a proud citizen of the farmer district of the village of Mal. Yeah. And I am one of the only two male recipients of the Yasaki [laughter] scholarship.

[00:48:04]I would like to offer my sincerest appreciation to the board of directors, to the director and the amazing staff at the Yasaki Kishuna Foundation.

[00:48:18]Thank you for believing in me. This opportunity, golden opportunity has motivated and inspired me to complete and finish with uh golden dollars what seems to be a long and a heavy yet worth it journey.

[00:48:36]To the shoulders which I stand on and the hands that nurture me. To the hands that gave me life. to my hardworking parents, supportive siblings and relatives, colleagues and friends, and the educators that have forged me to what I am today. Thank you for always being there. Today is not the final destination yet the milestone of our journey to the amazing staff at USP USB to also Mr. Golden Patrick. Thank you for making this opportunity possible. God bless you all in each and every way possible.

[00:49:33]>> [applause] >> Hello.

[00:49:43]Next we have Yeah, mate. [applause] >> Um, last year I stood here as well.

[00:50:17]I didn't prepare a speech this morning, not because this is not important, but it's because last year I cried halfway through my speech.

[00:50:29]And I I heard from my um pastor that tears is the only language that God can understand. And this morning I'm trying to roll back my tears because to um your excellency and the Yasaki Kuna Foundation and all the BBC and all the parents who are here to support us, the amazing staff. Thank you.

[00:50:58]Thank you.

[00:51:00]Thank you.

[00:51:05]>> I hope the mic is not crying.

[00:51:07]>> [laughter] >> Thank you very much. No other words can express how much we are so grateful for this opportunity. Your contribution to my life is your contribution to the Katam community, our future. Thank you once again and to our my colleagues, my old colleagues and my new colleagues, let us be deserving of this golden opportunity and achieve golden results.

[00:51:37]Amen.

[00:51:39][applause] >> Open.

[00:51:49][applause] From my heart I praise the Lord and all that I am. I praise his holy name.

[00:52:18]Toss Malava, your excellency ambassador, managing director and fellow representatives of the Japan International Corporation Agency, the Yasaki Foundation representatives as well and distinguished guests and recipients.

[00:52:44]My name is and I deeply honored to be one of the recipients of the 2026 Yasu Foundation scholarship. This journey of studying law has been both challenging and rewarding. Like many students, I have faced financial challenges and my parents have worked tirelessly to support my education. I am profoundly grateful not only for their sacrifices but also for the unwavering supporters of my grandparents, spiritual parents and extended family and the entire student village who have carried me through this journey.

[00:53:23]I extend my sincere thanks to the Kisuma Foundation [clears throat] for this generation and to all who continue to invest in the creation of your commitment is not only an investment in us as individuals but in the future of our communities and our nations. We the recipients carry your trust with deep gratitude and we will strive to honor it through our studies and future service.

[00:53:52]I am humbled by this opportunity and I pledge to make the most of it by to study diligently to serve with integrity and to contribute meaningfully to my society. As Nelson Mandela once said, education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.

[00:54:11]May we as recipients carry this truth forward with gratitude and determination.

[00:54:18]May this may this scholarship continue to inspire hope and opportunity for generations to come and may God bless you.

[00:54:29][applause] >> Next we'd like to call on Theresa Cheri.

[00:54:46]Great.

[00:55:00]Your excellency, ambassador of Japan, um, distinguished representatives of the Yazaki Kisuna Foundation, the director of the University of South Pacific campus to Aba, Dr. our esteemed guests, respected academics, my fellow scholarship recipients, ladies and gentlemen. A warm greetings to you all. I am deeply honored and sincerely grateful to stand before you today as one of the recipients of the Yasaki Kizula Foundation Scholarship Program. This moment is both a significant milestone in my academic journey and one that I acknowledge with great appreciation and a strong sense of responsibility.

[00:55:52]And it is also profoundly humbling as it represents not only a personal achievement but also the collective support, the sacrifice and encouragement of many who have walked this journey with me. Above all, I give thanks to God for his guidance, for his protection, and his continuous blessings throughout my academic journey because it is through his grace that I am able to stand here today to receive this golden opportunity.

[00:56:23]First and foremost, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the Yasaki Kizuna Foundation for your generosity and your commitment to empowering students through education because this scholarship is a powerful affirmation that education remains a cornerstone of sustainable development and a vital tool for shaping capable, responsible and compassionate leaders for the future.

[00:56:51]um as stated by by um our servia that the term kizuna meaning bonds or connections carries profound significance and this reminds us that our individual journeys are never walk along. Instead they are shaped by relationships, guidance and shared aspirations. And today I feel deeply connected not only to the foundation itself but also to my fellow recipients who share this privilege and responsibility.

[00:57:25]I would also like to acknowledge my family, my lecturers and my mentors for their unwavering belief in me has been a constant source of strength. Their sacrifices and encouragement have made this achievement possible. And as a proud someone, I carry not only my dreams but the hopes of my family and my community. And that is a responsibility that I hold with deep pride and for that I am truly grateful. As a student, I have come to realize that education extends far beyond the classroom. It challenges us to think critically, to act ethically, and to contribute meaningfully to the s to the societies we belong to. And as alluded by one of my fellow recipients, this scholarship therefore represents more than financial support. It represents trust. And with that trust comes great responsibility.

[00:58:26]I am therefore committed to pursuing my studies with diligence with humility and perseverance. And I aspire not only to succeed academically but also to use my knowledge and skills. I gain to contribute positively to commute to to my community and to the broader developments of my country. I once again extend my deepest gratitude to the Yasaki Kizuna Foundation for this invaluable opportunity and I am truly honored to be part of this program and I will strive to uphold the values it represents with integrity and purpose.

[00:59:01]Once again, [applause] next on I just been instructed by the director of Yes.

[00:59:42][clears throat] Yeah. Perfect.

[00:59:55]So next we like to call on Thomas George [applause] Bach of Arts Generation.

[01:00:13][snorts] Tava Konichua to you all respected guests members of the Yasaki Kisuna Foundation and my fellow recipient. My name is Thomas Georgeu.

[01:00:41]I'm 21 years of age. I proudly come from the village of Sumi and I am currently on my second year Bachelor of Arts double majoring in law and children.

[01:00:53]It is a great honor and privilege to stand before you today as one of the recipients for the Yasaki Kisuna Foundation scholarship. This opportunity is not just a form of financial support but a stepping stone towards achieving my dreams and building a better future.

[01:01:09]During my studies in law and journalism, I hope to contribute meaningfully to Samo. I aim to promote justice, fairness, and truth within our society.

[01:01:21]As the future professional, I want to use my voice and my knowledge to stand for what is right to represent those who may not be heard and to ensure that information shared within our community is honest and responsible.

[01:01:36]I believe that through education we can strengthen our nation and create positive change for the next generation.

[01:01:43]This scholarship has had a deep impact on my life. It has not only supported me as a student but it has also supported my family financially. Like many families in Samour, we face financial challenges and this opportunity has lifted a great burden. It has allowed me to focus on education without constantly worrying about financial struggles.

[01:02:06]Because of this support, I am able to move forward with confidence, hope, and determination. I am grateful for everyone who has contributed to making this scholarship possible. Your generosity is making a huge difference in the lives of students like me.

[01:02:23]You are not only supporting our education, but you are also investing in the future of us students and the future of Islam. As the Bible reminds us in Jeremiah 29 11, for I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you.

[01:02:42]Plans to give you hope and a future.

[01:02:45]This verse inspires me to trust the journey ahead and to continue working hard with faith and perseverance. I promise to do my very best in my studies to to succeed and to make most of this opportunity. I am committed to working hard so that I may continue to grow, achieve my goals, and hopefully be given this opportunity again next year. To the Yasaki Kisuna Foundation, thank you for believing in me, for supporting my education, and for giving me this life-changing opportunity. Your kind kindness and generosity will always be remembered and I will forever strive to make you proud. Thank you very much and may God bless us always.

[01:03:28][applause] Next up our program we have to carry for my Before I start, I would like to do a little activity.

[01:04:21]Um, I say me, you have to drop your hands.

[01:04:31]Hey, hey, >> greetings.

[01:04:39]My name is Karina.

[01:04:43]I'm the daughter of Samoa and I'm so proud. I'm very happy to be up here. And today, ladies and gentlemen, I'm sorry I haven't prepared a speech, but I have prepared a poem. So please bear with me as this might take your whole day.

[01:05:03][laughter] Today I stand with a heart so full. A dream once distant now within my womb.

[01:05:13]If one word could hold what I feel inside, it's blessed with joys I cannot hide. Blessed for doors I could not open alone. Blessed for seeds of hope now being sown. Through storms of worry, through nights of doubt, this gift has lifted my spirit out. To God above, I keep my grace for guiding me day by day.

[01:05:37]For strength when burdens felt too deep, with faith to hold and love to keep. To Yasaki, with hands so kind, you saw potential others might not find. You ease the weight my family bears. and answered many quiet and whispered prayers. To USB, thank you for the way you guided and shaped us every day. From knowledge shared and dreams made strong, for making me feel that I belong. To my parents, my endless guide, your allowable sacrifices continue to walk by my side. Through every challenge, you stay so true. This moment here belongs to you. To my family and friends so dear who stood beside me year by year. For every word and every cheer, you gave me strength to persevere. This scholarship means more than it seems. It carries my hope and built my dreams. I promise to work to give my best and honor this gift with every step. Bless I stand to serve and lift some more high so all may feel blessed and rise together towards this battle.

[01:06:53][applause] That's the floor.

[01:07:03][applause] [laughter] excellencies and my fellow this morning I feel honored, hopeful and motivated this is my first year receiving award.

[01:07:59]That's why I am deeply honored to stand here today as a recipient of this.

[01:08:06]I sincerely thank Foundation and all those involved for this generous opportunity and for believing my potential.

[01:08:18]Receiving this award is a true blessing and I see it as a meaningful opportunity for growth and a better future.

[01:08:28]As his excellency mentioned in earlier Kisa means bond or connection. It reminds me that this college represents a strong relationship between people and nation especially between Samuel and Janet. It is a bomb pill of trust, support and shared focus.

[01:08:52]I am truly grateful to be part of this connection and I thank you for giving hope to student like myself to pursue our dreams. This inspires us to work hard harder, stay focused and make the most of every opportunity.

[01:09:12]It reminds me that I have not only my dreams but also the hopes of those who have supported me along the way. On this same note, I would also like to acknowledge my husband who has been my main sponsor over the past years. I am truly grateful for your support and your encouragements. And also to my mom, my grand once again. Thank you for this incredible opportunity. I am committing to you wisely.

[01:09:49]Thank you very [applause] much.

[01:09:55]We like to call on [applause] March.

[01:10:16][clears throat] God is good.

[01:10:53]>> Hello >> [applause] >> and good morning respected representatives of the Yasaki Foundations Foundation, distinguished guest, members of the University of the South Pacific, fellow scholars, ladies, Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Fakia all the way from currently teaching at college and I am currently pursuing my master in education.

[01:11:45]It is truly an honor for me to stand before you today to express my sincere gratitude for the generous support and opportunity that has been given to me.

[01:11:59]I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Kisum Foundation and the University of the South Pacific for offering me this scholarship and allowing me to pursue my studies at the University of South Pacific.

[01:12:14]Receiving this scholarship means so much to me. Education is one of the most powerful tools that can transform lives and create opportunities for the future.

[01:12:25]Through the support of the Yasaki Kizuna Foundation, you are not only supporting students financially, but you are also investing in our dreams, our ambitions, and our potential to contribute to our communities and Pacific region. I would also like to sincerely thank to the University of the South Pacific for providing a place where students from across the Pacific can come together to learn, to grow, and to build a brighter future. The university plays a very important role in developing knowledge, leadership, and skills that are essential for the development of our nations. This scholarship has lifted a great burden from my family and has given me the motivation to work even harder in my studies. It encourages me to strive for excellence and to make the most of every opportunity that comes my way. I would also like to acknowledge my parents, my siblings, my husband, my kids, my families, my friends and the teachers who have supported and encouraged me throughout my educational journey. Their sacrifices, their guidance, and their belief in me have helped me reach this milestone. As a recipient of the Yasaki Kizuna Foundation scholarship, I promise to remain committed to my studies and to use the knowledge and skills that I came to contribute positively to my community and to the Pacific region. I hope that one day I will be able to give back and help others in the same way as this scholarship has helped me. Once again, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the ASA Foundation and the University of the South Pacific for believing in me [laughter] and for giving me this wonderful opportunity.

[01:14:14]Thank you very much. Lava for our next program.

[01:14:25]Um we have some very uh staunch very committed to borders u from the past actually graduate um and not we've uh I got two uh speakers um that follow um we like to ask we have uh the two lady and here we have character ammo who's um recipient of B which was completed last year. So we ask please Come see [applause] [clears throat] your excency.

[01:15:26]director represent and the Yasaki foundation esteemed staff parents and the 2026 scholarship recip it is a profound honor to stand before you today to share the story of a journey made possible by the Yasaki Kisuna Foundation.

[01:15:58]In 2024, I was one of the first, very first five students to receive the scholarship at USB.

[01:16:05]In 2025, as the foundation grew to support 10 students, I was blessed to be selected once again.

[01:16:14]These were my final two years of law school.

[01:16:18]For my first three years of bachelor roles, my parents carried the heavy financial burden of my education alone to the Saki Kisuna Foundation. Thank you for stepping in when I needed it most and allowing me to complete my studies.

[01:16:36]To the parents here today, we know that providing for your children is not easy, especially as the cost of living rises.

[01:16:48]You've given everything so your children could have a future. Today, Yasaki is their burden and that is a person we must never take for granted.

[01:16:59]My journey as a recipient was defined by one word, commitment.

[01:17:05]It was a commitment to be better than I was yesterday.

[01:17:09]On the days when tiredness hit and assignments felt like too much, I reminded myself that only I could do the work.

[01:17:17]It is normal to feel pressured or not good enough. But what matters the most is that you never give up.

[01:17:26]We were told that if we perform well, the foundation would increase its support for others.

[01:17:34]I work hard not just for my own degree but to prove that some students are worthy of this investment. ensuring the door stayed open for all of you sitting here today.

[01:17:48]This scholarship did more than just pay my fees. It gave me a vision.

[01:17:54]This year, I am proud to share that I have been awarded a mix scholarship to pursue my master's degree in Japan this September.

[01:18:03][applause] My time with the Genesis broker and the Yasaki Kisuna Foundation paved the way for this dream to come true.

[01:18:18]Moving from local sponsorship to finally heading to Japan is a journey I'm deeply grateful for and I can't wait for this next chapter.

[01:18:28]To the new recipients, this scholarship foundation schol scholarship is your starting line.

[01:18:37]Do well, aim high and remember that your success today builds a bridge for those who will follow tomorrow. So next we like to call on a very another very staunch report and committed support foundation. Let's call on the one prophet Joseph Dano.

[01:19:09][applause] under the weather.

[01:19:29]First and foremost, your excellency Japan, resident representative, distinguished representatives of the South African, [snorts] our USB campus director and staff, friends and families as well as warmings to you all.

[01:19:53]Thank you for this opportunity given to say a few words about my journey.

[01:19:58]recognition.

[01:19:59]But first and foremost to all successful participants, congratulations manual.

[01:20:08]It's wonderful to see both familiar faces as well as new scholars joining the program. Having once been in your position right now, I understand how meaningful this moment is for each of you.

[01:20:21]We already heard it in your speeches and I trust those reflections will continue to inspire and motivate you as you embark on this incredible opportunity.

[01:20:32]It's especially exciting to see such diversity this year with scholarships awarded across a wide range of disciplines and levels of study.

[01:20:43]So what does it mean to be a YKF recipient?

[01:20:47]For me, I've always seen it as both a privilege and a responsibility.

[01:20:53]In my own way, I view this opportunity as something granted because YKM has placed its confidence in me. And with that comes the duty to live up to that trust by working hard, staying committed, and maintaining strong academic performance.

[01:21:11]Of course, that's often easier said than done, especially when balancing work and other commitments.

[01:21:19]However, it is in those challenging moments that it becomes important to be intentional and adaptive.

[01:21:26]For me, that meant going above and beyond, such as creating a schedule that balances my responsibilities, but also taking time to rest and have some fun.

[01:21:38]It also means forming study groups with your YT participants and also making use of the campus facilities and resources.

[01:21:49]In the end, I believe these actions enabled me to keep up with my studies, maintain the scholarship, and successfully complete my degree.

[01:21:59]Now looking ahead, I plan to continue my studies by pursuing a professional degree for legal practice and I hope that Yasaki can also sponsor my long-term vision remains unchanged from all the interviews and applications I've submitted to for YKF and that is to establish a firm that provides accessible legal and financial advice at the graduate level.

[01:22:27]I hope my brief remarks off of some value, but I know each of you is already prepared to shape your own journey with what you have. So, study hard, stay disciplined, embrace the challenges along the way, and make the most of every opportunity because your future is in your hands.

[01:22:50][applause] Dr. [applause] Yeah.

[01:23:34]South.

[01:24:02]It is fitting in our culture that we debate on who to say a few words on behalf of the parents.

[01:24:13]So uh please bear with us. This is all part and parasa which means in It's hot.

[01:25:09]Yeah.

[01:25:26]And this is where I was before I was my Um today we are lost of words.

[01:25:38]Uh [clears throat] being a parent to hear the testimonials of the recipients and to hear the testimonials of those who have completed the journey really brings us home.

[01:26:05]Foundation.

[01:26:32]There's no other word greater than thank you to really sum up how this foundation has worked for our children. We can only say that uh to bless those who will be departing us and to bless those who will be here for the next few years. But most of all this my grand master for his contribution to this fellowship.

[01:27:09]update. [applause] Yeah.

[01:27:51]Yeah,ch.

[01:28:28]>> [applause] >> Thank you for all your blessings that you continue to uh bestow onto our lives. Please uh guide us as we head home. Uh bless uh Kuna Foundations for all they have done for us. Um in the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

[01:28:57]Amen.

[01:29:09]Yeah.

[01:29:14]Don't feel >> [clears throat] [snorts] >> Cheers.

[01:29:51]Cheers.

[01:30:12]What is this?

[01:30:23]>> [music] >> 3 go.