Full Circle: Rasela’s Lifelong Journey in Early Childhood Education
Rasela Saufatu (nee Misipati)- Tino e Tasi
Rasela’s story begins in Ōtautahi Christchurch, where she was born and raised with a strong foundation in Catholic faith and Samoan culture. Her parents, proud migrants from Samoa, raised her with deep values of faith, service, and community — values that continue to shape her both as a mother and an early childhood educator.
Some of Rasela’s very first memories of early childhood education are from Tafesilafa’i Playcentre — nestled within the Sagato Mikaele church community. She was just a baby when she first attended, one of the original tamaiti of the centre. Her mother was one of the founding volunteers, planting the seeds of service and passion for children early in Rasela’s life.
That early exposure grew into a lifelong love. After years of supporting children as an unqualified teacher at Tafesilafa’i Preschool, Rasela was invited to pursue formal training at Rangi Ruru Early Childhood College. She made history there — the very first and only Samoan student at the time. That moment marked more than just a milestone in her career — it was the beginning of her mission to represent, uplift, and create space for Pacific voices in early childhood education.
Today, Rasela is a mother of two beautiful children, both of whom have attended Tino e Tasi Preschool — her daughter still enrolled there now. For her, choosing a Samoan immersion centre was intentional. “Language is a gift that keeps on giving,” she says. “Having my kids grow up surrounded by their language and culture is something I know will benefit them for life.”
What makes Rasela truly special is her ability to walk between worlds. She deeply understands the fa‘asāmoa of her upbringing — the respectful, structured ways of her parents and elders — and she is equally in tune with the social and cultural shifts of today’s world. As a teacher and as a mother, she blends these two beautifully. She connects with children, parents, and elders alike — honouring traditions while embracing change.
Since joining the team at Tino e Tasi, Rasela has found not just a workplace, but a village. “This is the place where I’ve felt the most valued,” she shares. “I can bring my whole self here — my culture, my experiences, my faith — and I know I’m supported. My manager understands my background, my family, and my heart.”
She reflects on the beauty of this support with a smile:
“No matter how old someone gets, they will always need a village. And sometimes, I feel like I’m the child — and my workplace is my village.”
Rasela’s story is one of legacy, love, and leadership — proof that when our educators are empowered to be their full selves, our children flourish too.