Kelvin Uili, a junior from Samoa majoring in information systems, shares about his path as a leader, disciple of Jesus Christ, and future agent of change in his community.
A Legacy Continued
Uili’s desire to attend BYU–Hawaii began long before he ever stepped foot on campus. “I knew about BYU–Hawaii firstly from my mother, who also went to school here,” he shared. “She would always tell us about her experiences with school, work, and all the fun times she had while studying here. Despite not completing her studies, I feel like her experiences have stuck with me ever since.”
Inspired by his mother’s stories and determined to build upon the foundation she laid, Uili faced numerous challenges in his journey. “Before coming to BYU–Hawaii, my family faced some financial struggles due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and going to college felt almost impossible,” he said. “That is why the IWORK Program became a huge blessing for me. It gave me hope that I could afford to study, support myself, and relieve some of the burden from my parents. Coming to school here was not just a personal goal—it was a way to change my future and give back to my family that have sacrificed so much for me.”
Faith During Hard Times
Uili’s upbringing was centered around gospel principles and a close-knit family. “I was born and raised in the Church,” he explained. “My parents are both converts, and I am the oldest of seven children. I grew up and lived most of my life in the Church school campuses at Vaiola and Pesega in Samoa, where my parents worked as high school teachers.”
From an early age, his parents taught him to trust in God and put Him first. “My mom would always remind us that no matter how poor we get, we should always pay our tithes because it is not our money—it is the Lord’s,” he recalled. “Those principles of faith and obedience have stayed with me and shaped the way I approach life, especially during hard times.”
This spiritual foundation has remained with Uili throughout his time at BYU–Hawaii, guiding his decisions and strengthening his testimony.
Leading with Love
One of the most impactful experiences Uili has had on campus is serving as a student mentor in the Holokai program. “Each semester, I’ve had the opportunity to guide new students as they transition into life at BYU–Hawaii,” he said. “This role has helped me become a leader by facilitating discussions, ensuring my mentees understand the course material, and most importantly, pushing me to step outside my comfort zone.”
Through mentoring, he has not only developed valuable communication and leadership skills but has also learned the importance of lifting others. “It has been a meaningful way to develop my skills while serving others.”
As an information systems major, Uili is passionate about the power of technology to improve lives. But beyond the academics, his BYU–Hawaii experience has helped him grow holistically. “My time studying here at BYU–Hawaii has helped me grow intellectually, professionally, and spiritually,” he said. “The skills and education I have gained through my Holokai choices will help me to become a better leader and further the mission of BYU–Hawaii when I return home.”
He added, “I am learning how to serve others and work with students from diverse backgrounds through group projects, service opportunities, and leadership roles on campus.”
A Deeper Commitment to Christ
When asked how his time at BYU–Hawaii has made him a better disciple of Jesus Christ, Kelvin responded thoughtfully: “I am a better disciple of Jesus Christ by learning how to serve with love, lead with humility, and strengthen my own personal testimony and faith.”
From church callings to gospel-centered classes, the campus environment has continually uplifted him. But one experience, in particular, has deepened his discipleship in profound ways: “One of my greatest blessings has been getting married to my beautiful wife Valentina and starting a family. Our nine-month-old son, Keanu, has deepened my commitment,” he shared. “It has helped me to practice Christlike love, patience, suffering, and service on a much more personal level.”
With the Laie Hawaii Temple nearby, Uili is constantly reminded of eternal perspectives. “The temple stands as a reminder that Heavenly Father loves all His children, and our way of showing our love to Him is by following His son Jesus Christ.”
Eyes on the Future
Kelvin Uili hopes to use the knowledge and skills he has gained to make a difference in his home country and beyond. Whether it’s through tech innovation or mentoring youth, he is determined to serve his community and uplift others.
Through the trials of financial hardship and the blessings of education and family, he continues to build a legacy of faith—one that began with his parents and now continues through his own journey at BYU–Hawaii.