Dream Big, Rise Higher: Andrew Taylor Awa Advice Youths

 “Do your best and God will do the rest. If you don’t fail, you won’t learn anything. Mistakes make perfect.”  

These are the words that guided Andrew Taylor Awa from the shores of South Malaita to the international academic stage—words now shared as motivation to young Solomon Islanders with dreams of achieving more. 

Andrew Taylor Awa recently graduated with a Master of Laws degree, specializing in Human Rights, Social Justice, and Environmental Law from the William S. Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawai’i.  

He honored God and his parents—Su’uri’i and Likimaea of South Malaita, for being the foundation of his journey and helping him reach this important milestone. 

Andrew currently serves as the Solomon Islands National Delegate to the Commonwealth Youth Council and Board Secretary for Solomon Islands National Youth Congress, demonstrating his deep commitment to community service. 

He said, “Based on my years of volunteer experience, and doing humanitarian work in rural communities, I’ve developed a passion to pursue my Master of Law, specialization in Human Rights and Social Justice and Environment Law.” 

This passion did not come without sacrifice. One of the biggest challenges, he said, was leaving behind family and resigning from a stable job to chase a dream overseas. 

“I was excited but also a bit anxious. There was a point during my study when our scholarship funding was frozen—it was demotivating,” he recalled. “But through the generous support of my professors and the East-West Center, I kept going.” 

 
“He encourages young people to build meaningful relationships and remain open to learning from others, including through student exchange experiences. His time at the University of Hawai’i allowed him to connect with peers from Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Hawai’i, and the Pacific, broadening his worldview and sense of cultural understanding. 

Among the areas of law, he is passionate about is Medical Legal Partnerships, especially in the context of social determinants of health. Andrew believes Indigenous knowledge and traditional practices can be part of the solution to addressing health disparities in Solomon Islands’ rural communities. 

 
“The law clinic experiences really deepened my understanding of client advocacy and social justice lawyering,” he shared. 

His message to aspiring young leaders is grounded in humility, perseverance, and faith. He listed key attributes young people should embrace diplomacy, humility, resilience, teamwork, and above all, godly character. 

To those unsure about taking the first step, Andrew offers this advice. 

“Seek assistance from former students or alumni, be willing to work hard, and stay committed.” 

“Do your best and God will do the rest. If you don’t fail, you won’t learn anything. Mistakes make perfect.” 

News Desk Comments — Andrew sets a powerful example for young people in the Solomon Islands that nothing is impossible when you stay committed, honor your parents, and actively engage in volunteer work.  

This approach can be the first step toward achieving your dream career and reaching the global stage.