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!

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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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 the student who came to ITC instead of Year 13 – and has already landed her dream job!

Ruby Wang graduated ITC in July, and is already in training to become a flight attendant!

Student Ruby Wang was at Albany Senior High School when her career advisor suggested ITC instead of continuing into year 13. Ruby had been studying travel and tourism at school and really enjoying it, and when year 13 didn’t feel like the right path for her, she took up the suggestion and came to ITC instead.

And even though she only graduated from ITC in July, she has already started training to be a flight attendant with Qantas! With such an inspiring story, we had to ask her a few questions to learn more.

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ITC Students WOW Trade Manager on Work Experience

ITC students Ladelle and Natasha at a recent trade event.

Tourism Events Queensland recently hosted a VIP Brand Launch, with networking opportunities, a spa activation, a seated dinner, and formal presentations. Trade Manager at Brand USA Elaine has brought in ITC students for work experience in the past, and once again put the call out to see if any students would like some incredible experience at an industry event.

Two students – Ladelle James and Natasha Hilton – both signed up immediately.

“Their duties included supporting the general event setup, helping prepare the welcome area, greeting and checking in guests, managing the coat check and name tag distribution, and assisting with guest movement into the networking space. Toward the end of the evening, they also helped distribute gift bags and ensured guests were reunited with their coats and belongings,” explained Elaine.

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Meet Arieal Sage: The ITC student currently working at Camp America!

Arieal onsite at Camp America!

Many of our ITC students dream of graduating and heading overseas for work experience – and fun. Arieal Sage has achieved just that, with a successful application to Camp America thanks to one of our international exchange programs.

We chatted to Arieal to ask about how the application process worked, how she got accepted, tips for current ITC students hoping to get into the program, and how it’s all going so far!  (more…)

Meet Manuri: A recent Study From Work graduate who took the HR micro-credential to support her management role

Manuri Mudalige recently completed the HR micro-credential with Study From Work.

Did you know that Study From Work offers NZQA-accredited micro-credentials? This micro-credentials are designed for those already in the workforce who are looking to upskill and improve their knowledge.

Manuri Mudalige recently completed the HR micro-credential, which offers 15 credits at Level 5. She was already working in a HR role, but wanted to further upskill and expand her knowledge.

We took the opportunity to ask Manuri a few questions about her experience!

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Meet Sonia Alves Barreto, the International Student studying Level 5 at ITC!

Sonia Alves Barreto visiting Hobbiton.

Sonia Alves Barreto is another of ITC’s incredible international students. These students aren’t just working towards an industry-recognised qualification, but doing it all in a second language after leaving their family and friends behind.

We admire their passion for the industry and dedication to education, and we do everything we can at ITC to support our international students, ensuring they feel welcome and have the tools they need to thrive.

Sonia is from Timor-Leste, and she hopes to one day return to her home country and use her skills to improve tourism there. Her story is an inspiring one, so read on to learn more!

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Meet an ITC international student from Timor-Leste!

Elzita da Cruz Sarmento is an incredible student from Timor-Leste currently studying with ITC!

Did you know that ITC is known for our reputation for welcoming international students?

As a signatory to the Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners, we are deeply committed to taking extra care of students who leave behind their families and homes to study with us.

One of those students has been the lovely Elzita da Cruz Sarmento, who has come to us from Timor-Leste. Elzita has truly been making the most of her time at ITC and in New Zealand, so we asked her about her amazing journey so far!

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Meet the international student who says ITC makes Monday mornings feel exciting!

Ladelle James is an international student from South Africa studying with ITC – and loving it!

ITC is a wonderful college for international students, not just because of the world class qualifications you can earn here, but the welcoming environment that will help make everyone feel at home – even when they’re far from it.

We currently have nine international students studying with us, including Ladelle James, from South Africa. Ladelle recently sent us this quote:

“Every single day at ITC thus far has felt like stepping into a mini adventure, full of learning, laughter and the kind of people who make even Monday mornings feel exciting! and this is coming from a guy who doesn’t like Mondays. Coming here as an international student wasn’t just a choice, it was a milestone in my life—and honestly, I wouldn’t trade it for all the in-flight snacks in the world.”

Of course, we wanted to interview him and learn more! Here’s what he had to share.

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