Liualevaiosina Le'iato

Tell us about your work/ research. What kinds of things do you do?

I am an undergraduate intern at the Kewalo Marine Lab  in Honolulu, Hawai'i. I do not spearhead a research project at the moment, but currently float between two graduate students with their coral-centered projects. I aid in lab work, experiment preparations, data collection, and ongoing project maintenance.
 

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

The ocean is a place of wealth, subsistence, and sacredness for Samoan and Pasefika people. It holds integral value to our cultural identity, traditions, and daily lives. To be without the ocean is to be deeply unrooted in our history. As a Samoan tama’ita’i of Pasefika, I truly believe the sea is a source of life. This very reason serves as my inspiration and motivation to be a steward of the sea.
 

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

I have had the privilege of having a village of people who served as inspiration and encouragement in my life journey. I cannot just commend one person, because my success is credited by the heaps of peers, family, and mentors who have fueled my will and passion to persevere down this path.
 

What element of your work/ study do you think is the most fascinating?

I want to specialize in coral reefs and restoration, so the current lab/ field work assistance I help with at the Kewalo Marine Lab has been the highlight of my work. One of the projects which really peaks my interest is entitled the effects of microplastics on coral. Coral consumption of microplastics is a topic research with very little prior studies and data, so I consider this work to be groundbreaking.
 

How did you get involved with Ocean Exploration Trust? How did you become part of the expedition team?

I heard about OET primarily through local news outlets as they were promoting the opportunity for American Samoa residents to apply for the internship. I'm thrilled to be able to participate in an expedition in the deep ocean around my home.
 

What other jobs led you to your current career?

As a full-time student, I work two part-time jobs. One as a student usher at my university's stadium venue, and the other as a student assistant for my college, College of Natural Sciences, advising office. Both though not directly in marine science research have contributed in social, management, and communication skills in one way or another. They have introduced me to logistics part of work field which I can the utilize for any future marine science occupations.
 

What are your degrees and certifications?

Bachelors of Science in Marine Biology (Spring, 2026)
 

What are your hobbies?

I am an avid napper (only when time permits), a music enthusiast (no instrumental talent, but will always blasting music from my speaker), and a foodie. I started getting into flower arrangements recently using the flowers from my front yard.
 

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?

Do not be afraid to overstep boundaries. As a Pasific women in the STEM field, you don't get a lot of choices for role models. I've learned that this journey isn't about just about yourself, but includes the village of aspiring Pasefika career women and men you represent. Do not be afraid to push the narrative and challenge exclusive spaces with Pasefika excellence. This goes to all minoritized students in academia struggling with acceptance. Mostly importantly, be unapologetically you. Do not feel obligated to transform yourself to fit the norm of a standard scientist. Utilize the Indigenous knowledge and perspective you carry and translate it into your work, fellowships, and research.