Mosiana Webster Haynes
2nd-year student, Bachelor of Arts in New Zealand Sign Language – English Interpreting
She decided to return to study to contribute to a profession where cultural identity, language and community values are visible and valued, says New Zealand Sign Language student Mosiana Webster Haynes.
“My husband is Deaf, and he and my mum both encouraged me to come to AUT to study. Although I felt nervous, being in my thirties and not particularly confident, their support gave me just enough courage to begin. I’m incredibly grateful that I did, because I’ve discovered a genuine love for learning and developed a deep appreciation for the Deaf community that my husband is part of. Knowing that this programme is shaping the future of interpreters who will work alongside the Deaf community makes it feel meaningful and grounded. Choosing AUT wasn’t just about studying; it was about committing to a path that connects directly to the people and culture I care about most.”
With a background in dance as one of the leaders in the krump community, she is deeply passionate about bridging the gap between the Deaf community and the dance community here in Aotearoa, two worlds that mean a great deal to her.
“Bringing the Deaf and the dance community together feels like a way to honour both my personal journey and the communities that have shaped me. What I’ve enjoyed most about my studies so far is immersing myself in the history of the Deaf community and the richness of the language, but also the human side of it all. I love engaging with the community, building genuine connections, and forming strong friendships with the people who will one day be my colleagues in this field. These experiences have made the journey feel not just educational, but deeply meaningful.
“What I enjoy most about being a student is the constant exposure to new ideas and perspectives; many of which I had never considered before, especially at this stage of my life. I’ve achieved consistently strong grades, never receiving anything lower than a B+, and was selected for the Amokura Vice-Chancellor’s Leadership Programme for 2026, which has been a huge confidence boost. It’s been a powerful reminder that learning doesn’t have an age limit. There is something incredibly energising about discovering new ways of thinking and realising that it’s never too late to grow, explore and try something completely new.”
Shaping her AUT journey
Mosiana says the staff in the NZSL department have supported her in ways that have genuinely shaped her journey.
“Susie Ovens, Rachel Coppage, Pascal Marceau and Dr George Major have each played a part in helping me grow in confidence and skill, and their guidance has made me feel seen and capable in this field. I’m also deeply grateful to Isabella Rasch from Vā Pasifika – Pacific student support, who encouraged both my friend and me to apply for a scholarship. Their belief in me has been a major reason I feel motivated to keep moving forward and commit fully to this career path.”
She is grateful for the support of a Tulī Takes Flight Scholarship to help her achieve her dream to become a qualified NZSL-English interpreter.
“I was awarded the Ministry of Education’s Tulī Takes Flight Scholarship; a significant scholarship designed to support Pacific students who are studying full time and seeking a new career direction. Receiving it felt incredibly meaningful; not just as financial support, but as a recognition of my commitment to reshaping my future and contributing to my community in a deeper way. This scholarship has genuinely transformed my life. It has enabled me to fully fund my studies without the weight of debt, giving me the freedom to focus on building a career, being a wife and creating a future I once only imagined.”
Advice for other students
Now in the second year of her studies, Mosiana has some great advice for other students who are thinking about returning to study.
“If you’re thinking about starting university in your thirties but feel unsure or lack confidence, take the leap. You truly have nothing to lose and so much to gain. Stepping into study later in life can open doors you never expected, reshape your sense of possibility and remind you that growth doesn’t stop at any age. It’s a chance to invest in yourself, your future and the life you want to build.”
She says she would absolutely recommend studying at AUT, especially for Pacific and Māori students.
“There’s a real and urgent need for Pacific and Māori NZSL interpreters, and having representation within the profession is incredibly important. Being able to bring our cultures, values and lived experiences into this work strengthens the connection with the Deaf community, and ensures that the people we serve see themselves reflected in the interpreters who support them. It’s meaningful, empowering and deeply needed.”
