Finding a path to mental wellbeing
Utusaitoa (Utu) Ah Kuoi is a young Samoan man who successfully navigated his way through mental health challenges to wellbeing and gainful employment, with support from Vaka Tautua’s Pacific Navigation Services in Wellington.
Tevita Tuita (L) and Utu Ah Kuoi (R).
After going through a period of mental distress, Utu was referred to Vaka Tautua by the community mental health team at Health Pasifika. At Vaka Tautua, he connected with Tevita Tuita, Pacific Mental Health Navigator for our Ola Fiafia mental health services.
Tevita supported Utu on his journey to mental wellbeing, helping him pursue his goals of finding employment and rejoining the community. He guided Utu through the process of searching and applying for jobs and helped him prepare for interviews.
Utu said of the support he received, “What was really great about Vaka Tautua was having someone who could relate to me and give me guidance, ask me what I wanted, or if I needed help with anything. Tevita helped me through the whole job process, encouraged me to stay focused on my goals, and was willing to discuss anything with me.”
Recently, Utu found a job working as a COVID Team Support administrator, serving the community and becoming more engaged. Tevita provided ongoing support for several weeks after Utu started on the job, and that continuity of quality care is something Utu has expressed gratitude for.
Utu now has an ambitious plan to start saving towards the goal of home ownership, and is also considering studying to become a healthcare professional. His parents, who have supported Utu on his wellbeing journey, are proud of what he has achieved and will support his continued recovery.
Utu’s message to people who are on a similar path is to take heart in knowing they are not alone on their journey. He said, “Everyone has their own struggles and there are people out there who are going through the same thing as you. Stick to your goals, no matter what. Work hard, find your path and spend time with friends and family.”
Learn more about Vaka Tautua’s Pacific Navigation Services.