Ridvan Firestone’s family moved from Samoa to New Zealand for a better future
Ridvan’s parents emphasised importance of study and hard work
“We came here from Samoa for a better education and way of life. Both my parents worked really hard and long shifts so my brothers and sisters and I could get ahead.
“My family adapted quickly to the Kiwi lifestyle. We didn’t go to Sunday church or youth group, so we didn’t have that Pacific lifestyle where you had responsibilities to your family and the church.
“My parents were good role models. They restricted us from going out and playing with friends so we could concentrate on our homework. But I’d always jump the fence and go out and play!
“I’ve ended up with a PhD in sleep disorders so I now respect my parents’ decision to reinforce the values of hard work.”
Importance of developing Pacific community connections
- Ridvan Firestone discussing a research document with colleagues
“I’m now doing a postdoctoral research fellowship awarded from the Health Research Council of New Zealand, focusing on Pacific health. As part of my job, I have to ensure that our research methods are sensitive to the needs of the Pacific community, so I need to co-ordinate with Pacific community members and consult with Pacific community advisers.
“Not having those connections has made my work in research more challenging. But it’s forced me to go out and meet people, and I’ve initiated contact with local community leaders.
“Also, with my child starting school, I’m hopefully going to make connections with the Pacific support group at the school.”
Having outside interests has a positive spin-off at work
“I’ve been teaching aerobics since I was at university. Teaching aerobics gives me a connection with people from different walks of life, and it helps me with confidence in my interpersonal skills.
“When I’m giving seminars at work I’m not so nervous because I’m used to being at the front of class, instructing people. It enables me to think quickly on my feet.”
It’s all about striking a balance between family and work life
“With the focus on study to the exclusion of community involvement during my upbringing, I’ve learned that there needs to be a balance between family, study and community involvement.
“The same goes with having a family and working. I find that with a young family there’s a lot of room to move and incorporate family life into an academic career, so long as you get the work done.
“But all in all you need to work hard academically. And being a Pacific person in the minority, you do feel you have to work three times harder than everyone else!”
