Nu‘uali‘i Eteroa Lafaele
AUT computer and information sciences alumna Nu‘uali‘i Eteroa Lafaele was named Young New Zealander of the Year 2025 for her work in bridging the digital divide for Pacific communities.
A globally recognised Samoan leader and changemaker, Eteroa (Fogapoa, Leulumoega Tuai, Lefaga) has led groundbreaking initiatives to amplify Pacific voices in the tech sector.
She founded DigiTautua, which provided refurbished devices to families during COVID-19, and is the co-founder of Fibre Fale, which aims to create a future where Pacific people have digital equity and see a future for themselves in digital technologies.
This latest recognition for her important work follows other prestigious accolades that include the Young IT Professional of the Year, the NZ Hi-Tech Young Achiever Award and being named in the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 – Asia – Social Impact.