Nerisa Toelupe: Our Raukawa Co-ordinator

28-year-old Nerisa Toelupe wasn’t fazed when her role as Co-ordinator at the Raukawa St Community Centre coincided with 2020’s lockdown—she’s someone who gets stuck in. Of Samoan descent, Nerisa was born and raised in Newtown and now lives Miramar. We caught up with Nerisa ...

Nerisa, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A singer—never mind the lack of a singing voice! I was raised in the Samoan Wesley Methodist Church and it was here that I discovered my passion for people–particularly youth. I was surrounded by a community of ‘doers’ and it made me want to be one too, hence my journey into social work.  

I’m finishing my 3^rd year of a social work degree this year and I’m so excited. It’s been challenging and confronting in the best possible way.

Favourite part of your role at the community centre?

I love the different people that I come into contact with every day. No day is the same and I’m always guaranteed a laugh and a good conversation over a cuppa.

How do relax and unwind?

Recently I decided to take up a sport and an instrument so have signed up to play rugby, but haven’t quite decided on the instrument yet—stay tuned!  

You’ll usually find me somewhere in the sun with some friends and a speaker blasting.  

Favourite beach … 

A tie between Seatoun and Worser Bay, special memories with my friends and family at both beaches.   

Book or film?

I love a good book but I’m currently watching Lupin on Netflix. It’s a retelling of the classic French story about Arsene Lupin—the gentlemen thief.  

Check out the Community Centre’s events or contact Nerisa