Summary
Overview
Skills
Education
Work History
Recentaccomplishments
Languages
Timeline
Generic

IOANA TONGA VAKA

Massey

Summary

Master’s student in Biological Sciences at the University of Auckland, currently researching mitochondrial transplantation in liver transplantation. Of Tongan and Samoan heritage and the eldest of four, I have balanced full-time work as a Support Worker with postgraduate study, developing resilience, adaptability, and strong leadership skills. I work effectively with people from diverse cultures and age groups, bringing enthusiasm, dedication, and a collaborative approach to every environment

Overview

5
5

As a support worker

5
5

As a sciene student

Skills

  • Excellent communication
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Relationship building
  • Decision-making
  • Problem-solving
  • Emotional awareness
  • Documentation management
  • Professionalism

Education

Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences

The University of Auckland
Auckland, NZ
05.2025

Certificate in Health Science -

The University of Auckland
12.2020

Work History

Community Support Worker

Healthvision
01.2020 - Current
  • Provide comprehensive support to clients with spinal injuries, assisting with daily living activities and specialized medical care.
  • Trained in administering medications, operating sling and hoist equipment for safe client transfers, and performing advanced care tasks, including stoma bag changes, wound dressing, and manual cough assistance.
  • Committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care tailored to individual client needs.

Physical Education & English Tutor

ACG Sunderland
01.2018 - 01.2019
  • Assist students by reviewing class assignments, discussing content, and providing support with homework problems.
  • Identify and address areas of difficulty within a subject, guiding students until they achieve a clear understanding.
  • Foster academic confidence by offering positive feedback and constructive suggestions tailored to individual learning needs.
  • Motivate students to excel academically and inspire them to strive for success in school and life.

Netball Coach

ACG Sunderland
01.2016 - 01.2019
  • Coached Year 5 to 7 students, preparing teams for competitions and tournaments through structured training sessions.
  • Conducted weekly two-hour practice sessions, focusing on skill development through targeted games and drills.
  • Designed and implemented exercise programs and training strategies to enhance individual and team performance.
  • Effectively managed schedules, balancing travel for games, practice sessions, and personal academic commitments.
  • Fostered teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship in a supportive and engaging environment.

Netball Umpire

ACG Sunderland
01.2016 - 01.2019
  • Explained and enforced netball regulations and rules to players, ensuring fair play.
  • Communicated effectively with players, coaches, and fellow umpires, fostering a collaborative and respectful environment.
  • Engaged with diverse groups of athletes and game officials to ensure smooth event coordination.
  • Promoted good sportsmanship among players, emphasizing respect and integrity on the court.
  • Verified score accuracy before announcing winners, maintaining transparency and fairness.
  • Inspected sporting equipment to ensure compliance with safety and event regulations.

Recentaccomplishments

2016–2019 | ACG Sunderland 

• Awarded an academic scholarship upon entry 

• Held multiple student leadership roles: Associate House Leader (2016), Deputy House Leader (2018), and House Leader of Tong House (2019) 

• Appointed Class Captain (2017-2019) and Peer Tutor for Physical Education & English (2018-2019) 

• Captain of the Year 10 Netball (2016) Team and deputy captain of the Senior A (Premier) Netball Squad (2019) 

• Earned 2 Principal's Awards (Honours) for academic and leadership excellence 

2020 

• Completed Certificate in Health Sciences, University of Auckland 

• Offered admission into the Bachelor of Biomedical Science and Health Sciences programme 

• Completed training and began working as a Support Worker with Healthvision 

2021 

• Commenced Bachelor of Science degree, University of Auckland 

2024 

• Completed Bachelor of Science degree requirements 

2025 

• Graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree, University of Auckland 

• Commenced Masters degree in Science

Languages

English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Tonga
Advanced (C1)

Timeline

Community Support Worker

Healthvision
01.2020 - Current

Physical Education & English Tutor

ACG Sunderland
01.2018 - 01.2019

Netball Coach

ACG Sunderland
01.2016 - 01.2019

Netball Umpire

ACG Sunderland
01.2016 - 01.2019

Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences

The University of Auckland

Certificate in Health Science -

The University of Auckland

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IOANA TONGA VAKA