A legacy of care from a dedicated nursing student

Born and raised in Samoa, Dilimor Lima moved to Hastings, Hawkes Bay, in 2015, where she spent nine years before taking a bold leap in 2020. She relocated to Palmerston North to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University, a decision that would profoundly impact her life.

Currently in her final semester, Dilimor reflects on a challenging yet rewarding academic journey – she says she feels an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and excitement for the future. Her passion for nursing is rooted in her Samoan heritage, where the values of family and Christian faith play a central role in daily life.

"In our culture, caring for others isn’t just a choice; it’s a way of life," she says.

Inspired by her grandmother, who blended nursing skills with traditional healing practices, Dilimor wants to provide care that blends medical expertise with cultural compassion. Her grandmother’s faith-driven approach to healing has left a lasting impression, motivating Dilimor to follow in her footsteps.

Throughout her time at Massey, Dilimor says she’s benefited from a supportive and enriching environment.

Alongside her late grandmother, Dilimor credits many influential figures for her journey; her biological mother in Samoa and her adoptive mother in Aotearoa New Zealand, and her extended family in Samoa and New Zealand.

"Their love and sacrifices have been instrumental in shaping my desire to give back through nursing," she says.

Her church community in Palmerston North has also played a crucial role.

“They’ve provided support from afar, offering both spiritual guidance and practical help. Their encouragement has been invaluable.”

As she nears the completion of her degree, Dilimor feels immense pride in her achievements. One of her standout moments was successfully completing clinical placements, where she could apply her theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

Dilimor is now preparing for her state final examination in November. She says she’s excited and nervous about the upcoming interviews at local hospitals but feels well prepared for the next steps in her career.

"I’m ready to step into the next chapter of my life with confidence, and I’m committed to making a positive impact in the nursing profession.”