Source: Eastern Institute of Technology
After years of gentle encouragement from EIT lecturers, Mabel Aiolupotea returned to study and completed her Master of Professional Practice while working full-time
Mabel, a Registered Social Worker in the Cancer Support Team within Oncology Services at Te Matau a Māui Hawke’s Bay, recently completed the postgraduate qualification at EIT.
Her journey with EIT began more than a decade ago, when she enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work.
“It wasn’t something that I planned or knew I would become. I didn’t quite finish my last year of high school, and then I got married and had two kids before I started studying.”
She completed her degree by taking one paper at a time while working full-time in social services.
She graduated in 2013 and remained connected to the institute.
“Every time I bumped into one of my old lecturers, they would say, ‘Are you thinking about coming back? We’ve got this programme running.’ They saw potential in me, and that encouragement stayed with me.”
Eventually, Mabel decided to apply.
“I didn’t know how I was going to pay for it. But I just knew it was what I was supposed to do. So, I applied and trusted the rest would follow.”
She later received education funding through the Radiotherapy and Oncology Trust in Palmerston North. That support enabled her to complete her studies one paper at a time while continuing full-time work.
Mabel has spent nearly a decade at Hawke’s Bay Hospital and the past five years in Oncology Psychosocial Services. Her role spans the full cancer journey, from initial testing and diagnosis through to treatment, end-of-life care, and bereavement support.
“It’s a privilege to walk alongside people during some of their most vulnerable moments, especially when facing uncertainty. You do not take that lightly.”
Returning to study gave her space to reflect on her practice and grow her confidence, both professionally and personally.
As part of her master’s programme, Mabel completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Supervision and a research component that gave her insight into the different cultural and personal spaces she moves through every day.
“You can go through the motions, or you can really engage in a way that transforms you. Supervision became a place for deeper learning, not just a mandatory requirement,” she says.
She credits the support of her family and her village, including EIT staff for helping her succeed while balancing home, work, study, and church life. When classes were moved to Hastings following Cyclone Gabrielle, she says EIT handled the disruption with care and minimal interruption.
Mabel graduated in April this year and received an award at EIT’s Pacific Achievement Ceremony, an honour she says was both humbling and affirming.
Earlier this year, she also became a grandmother for the first time. With a new mokopuna in the family, she is taking a pause from study to enjoy this season, though she hasn’t ruled out the idea of pursuing a doctorate in the future.
“There is always more to learn. But for now, I am just really grateful. I am proud of who I have become through this journey and how it has helped me show up at work, at home, and in my community.”
Mabel says she would “absolutely” recommend study at EIT.
“If you want to become better at being you, then it’s the right place to be. You get out what you put in and with God all things are possible.”
Mandy Pentecost, EIT School of Education and Social Sciences Programme Coordinator, said: “I speak for all those who have taught Mabel through her studies with EIT, to congratulate her on completing her Masters degree”.
“Mabel has been a committed student, humble and open to embracing new ideas and ways of practice. Through her work she has an impact on so many lives, and we wish her well as she continues her journey of learning and service.”