Meet Sisilia Vea Moala: The Student Who Found Her True Passion in Travel & Tourism!

“Studying at ITC gave me confidence, direction, and real opportunities,” says Sisilia Vea Moala.

“Studying at ITC gave me confidence, direction, and real opportunities.” 

Sisilia is an inspiring young ITC student who completed high school in Tonga before moving to New Zealand. Here, she first enrolled in a business course – but quickly realised it wasn’t quite the right fit for her.

Then one day, she saw an ITC clip on TikTok, and “something clicked”. The rest – as they say – is history!

Read on to learn a little more about Sisilia’s fantastic story so far!

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your story up until now?

My name is Sisilia Vea Moala, and I am an 18‑year‑old student originally from Tonga. I moved to New Zealand in 2024 after completing high school, motivated to build a strong future for myself. I first enrolled in a Business course but soon realised my true passion was Travel & Tourism. That decision led me to the International Travel College (ITC) . A choice that shaped my confidence, skills, and career direction. 

Why did you decide to get into travel & tourism?

I have always loved meeting new people, learning about different cultures, and exploring the world. When I discovered the Travel & Tourism programme on TikTok, something clicked. I felt excited and ready to begin my journey toward becoming a flight attendant. 

Why ITC was the right fit for you?

Vanessa welcomed me warmly during enrolment and explained everything clearly. ITC stood out for its friendly environment, practical learning style, and strong industry connections. I felt an immediate sense of belonging. 

What was your learning experience like at ITC?

Studying Travel & Tourism has been exciting and rewarding. I enjoy learning about global destinations, cultural diversity, and how the tourism industry operates. One highlight was mastering airport codes and the New Zealand map, a proud moment of progress. 

How did you find the support from tutors and staff?

The tutors at ITC are patient, approachable, and always willing to help. Their encouragement has helped me grow academically and personally. The learning environment is positive and supportive.

What kind of industry experiences and opportunities did you get at ITC?

I participated in industry visits to hotels, travel agencies, and tourism attractions. I also enjoyed activities like bungy jumping and bridge climbing, which gave me insight into adventure tourism. 

A major milestone was being handpicked for a work‑experience placement at Sudima Hotel, where I completed a full week of training and was offered a job. To work as a part time job. 

What did you value most about ITC?

I value the supportive tutors, welcoming atmosphere, and practical learning that ITC provides. Every experience from classroom learning to industry trips has helped me build confidence and prepare for a successful future. 

What’s your advice for future students?

If you are unsure about your course or career path, give yourself time and trust the process. Ask questions, seek support, and stay open to new opportunities. With the right guidance and effort, you will discover where you belong. 

What’s next for you?

Over the next twelve months, I am committed to continuing my personal and professional growth within the tourism and hospitality industry. My focus is on strengthening the skills I have developed throughout my studies, completing my qualification to a high standard, and gaining even more hands-on experience that will prepare me for future opportunities.

I will continue working at Sudima Hotel, where I aim to build my confidence, expand my industry knowledge, and contribute positively to the team. Every step I take is aligned with my long‑term goal of becoming a flight attendant, and I am determined to stay disciplined, motivated, and open to new learning experiences. I look forward to the challenge and achievements ahead as I work toward a successful and rewarding career in the travel industry. 

Malo‘Aupito, Tu’a‘ofa atu a

Ready to make the switch to travel and tourism?

Not all ITC students begin their careers in travel and tourism. Some, like Sisilia, study something else first. Some work in different fields, or take time away to have families. If that sounds like you, just remember that it’s never too late to switch to a career you’re passionate about!

We’re enrolling now for our New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a strand in Tourism and Travel Level 3, which gets started on July 20 at our Whangarei Campus, and on July 27 at our Auckland City Campus. Or, launch into Level 4 with our New Zealand Certificate in Travel, which is kicking off on July 20 at both our Auckland City Campus and South Auckland Campus.

And of course, there’s always the option to Study From Home if you’re based elsewhere in New Zealand, or if you want to only study part time so you can continue work!

Contact us here with any questions – we’d love to hear from you!

Catching up with Leandri: ITC Graduate Making a Splash in Exciting New Role!

Leandri is an ITC graduate living her dreams, and has recently moved back to New Zealand and started a great new role.

It’s been a year since we chatted to Leandri, an ITC graduate who was doing an International Working Holidays internship in Florida – and loving it.

At the time, she was one of just five team members (out of 1,300!) nominated for the coveted title of Associate of the Semester at Ocean Reef Club, which is a huge achievement on its own.

We couldn’t have been more excited that Leandri then went on to win the Associate of the Semester award!

But that’s just one of the exciting updates on Leandri’s journey so far as an ITC graduate, as she is now back in New Zealand and working in another great role. We chatted to her for more updates and news! 

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Building a Future Through Tourism: Savannah’s Story

From Classroom Dream to Tourism Career: Savannah’s Journey

Savannah with her Academy classmates

Some journeys begin with a single step. For Savannah Jackson, her journey into tourism began with a simple school workshop and a dream that would eventually lead her to a career welcoming visitors from around the world.

Today, Savannah works at the iconic Hundertwasser Art Centre in Whangārei, but her path to success has been one of determination, passion, and perseverance.

A proud young mum to her son, Savannah has always understood the importance of creating opportunities for a brighter future. Her love for tourism was sparked during her school years when a Flight Attendant visited her classroom to share stories about the travel and tourism industry.

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Meet Mercedes Laing, mother of two and Level 5 ITC student (with plans to become a pilot)!

Mercedes is a seriously impressive ITC student – with plans to become a pilot!

Mercedes Laing is the kind of student who is exciting to watch. She has returned to study after raising her children, is about to graduate from Level 4, and will be getting started on her Level 5 training in July.

But that’s not all – she has aspirations to fulfil her lifelong dream of becoming a pilot, and we couldn’t be more excited to be the first step on that journey, and to cheer her along the way!

For anyone who has ever thought about returning to study, or wondered if it was too late to make a career change, read on for some serious career inspiration!

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ITC Students Shine at TRENZ 2026

ITC students, Andre, Maureen, Susana, Mercedes & Lucy

This experience was about so much more than volunteering. It was an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the tourism industry, connect with industry leaders from around the world, and gain first-hand insight into how major events operate within New Zealand’s thriving tourism sector.

Throughout the event, students assisted with:

• Helping sellers set up their exhibition stands
• Manning key information areas including coat check and food stations
• Supporting delegates and exhibitors with last-minute requests and errands
• Assisting visitors and creating a warm, welcoming environment for international guests

The feedback from industry leaders was outstanding.

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Study Tourism or Aviation in 2026 and Make the Most of Fees Free Before It Ends

If you’ve been thinking about starting a career in tourism, travel, or aviation, now is the perfect time to make your move.

The New Zealand Government has confirmed that the current final-year Fees Free scheme will end after 2026. That means students who complete an eligible qualification during the 2026 calendar year can still apply for Fees Free, but future intakes may not have the same opportunity.

For students enrolling in ITC’s June and July 2026 intakes, there’s still time to complete your qualification by the end of 2026 and potentially access Fees Free before the scheme finishes.

Whether you want to study on campus or study from home anywhere in New Zealand, these upcoming intakes are designed to help you get qualified quickly and start building your future in one of New Zealand’s largest and most exciting industries.

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Meet Rose, the student who found ITC and happiness after years trying other paths!

Rose tried lots of study and work options, but wasn’t truly happy until she switched to Travel and Tourism!

It’s incredibly tough to know what you want to do with your life at just 18. Once you get a little older, you realise how challenging it is to have to try to pick a career path at that age – and then stick with it forever!

Rose was one of those students. Throughout her 20s, she studied all manner of pathways, and worked in all manner of jobs. But she knew none of it was really for her. That’s when she took interest in travel and tourism, discovered ITC, and made the life-changing decision to enrol.

Rose’s story is a particularly inspiring one, and one that will resonate with anyone who has ever been unsure of which path to take! (more…)

Meet an inspiring Level 4 Study From Home Student: Savannah Larkin!

Savannah Larkin is studying our Level 4 certificate from home, all while still working!

Savannah Larkin went to Mountainview High School in Timaru, so when she wanted to begin studying for a qualification in Travel and Tourism, she didn’t have a huge range of options.

That’s when she discovered Study From Home, and was inspired by another online learner who graduated with us before landing her dream job. Savannah is now studying our Level 4 New Zealand Certificate in Travel – all during her downtime from her job! 

Here’s what she had to say about the experience.

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Meet Samantha Kingham: The ITC Grad Living the Dream at Disney World!

This ITC graduate is living her dream at Disney World!

For many young people starting out in the travel and tourism industry, the dream is to work at Disney World. Samantha Kingham didn’t just achieve that goal – she took it one step further by landing a coveted position on the Disney Entertainment and Performing team.

We of course had to learn more and share her story. So we chatted to Samantha and learned how what began with the feeling that Year 13 wasn’t for her, ultimately led her to the job of her dreams overseas!

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Make 2026 Count: Where Your Future Truly Matters

A recent group of ITC level 4 graduates.

As a new year begins, many people find themselves asking the same question:

What’s next for me?

At ITC, we believe the answer starts with being seen, supported, and genuinely cared for — not just as a student, but as an individual with dreams, goals and a future worth investing in.

That belief is at the heart of everything we do.

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