Lucy Tuave
Digital Communications Executive, New Zealand Rugby League
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Management
Her working life is all about sport, says sport and recreation alumna Lucy Tuave who is now the digital communications executive at New Zealand Rugby League.
“I love that I get to create sports content all day, whether it be editing videos and photos, creating something in Photoshop or writing articles. My day-to-day work involves sports, sports and more sports. It’s my dream job.
“I’m very proud of landing this role. To end up with a role at an organisation like New Zealand Rugby League is a testament to the hard work and sacrifices from both myself and my aiga. Being the eldest grandkid and kid in my family, it was my calling to lead and lay out the pathway for them. It hasn’t always been easy but it’s definitely worth the happiness your accomplishments bring to your family.”
As a proud Samoan, Lucy is excited to see more Pacific women involved in creating sports content.
“We’re the original storytellers, so why not bring our own creativity and flavour into the sporting scene?”
A lifetime passion for sport
She always knew she wanted to work in sports, says Lucy who completed her Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in 2021.
“I initially wanted to become a PE teacher, but there was something about the business and management side of sports that I liked. I chose to study at AUT because it enabled me to not only develop knowledge of the wider sport and recreation sector but also gave me opportunities to practically apply what was taught in the classroom.”
The workplace experience was the highlight of her studies.
“Having the opportunity to work in a sporting organisation of my choice really motivated me. This experience grew my love and passion for sports social media and content creation, which is what I do now. I’m grateful that AUT provides opportunities like this for students because it’s a headstart into the workforce once you’ve graduated.”
Advice for other students
Lucy’s advice for other students is simple: don’t settle.
“A quote that helped me through my uni life was a quote from the late Steve Jobs. He said, ‘You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a larger part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking. Don't settle!’
Her other piece of advice is not to underestimate the importance of LinkedIn.
“It’s important to start working on building your LinkedIn profile – your future self will thank you for it.”
