Three Seventh-day Adventists have been recognized with national honors by the Government of Kiribati, acknowledging decades of service in education, agriculture, and community development.

Tekemau Ribabaiti and Dr. Takuia Uakeia were awarded the Kiribati National Order while Mamarau Ringkan received the Kiribati Order of Merit during the national honors ceremony.

The awards recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the Republic of Kiribati through public service and community leadership.

Over many years, Ribabaiti served as a teacher and principal in Kiribati, Tuvalu, the Cook Islands, Fiji, and Solomon Islands. Educated at the University of the South Pacific and Loma Linda University in the United States, he influenced generations of students and leaders throughout the Pacific.

As the elderly educator prepared to receive his award, Kiribati president Taneti Maamau stepped down from the stage and personally presented him with the medal rather than requiring him to make the journey to the podium—a gesture that reflected deep respect for his lifetime of service.

Uakeia has dedicated his professional life to serving the nation through education, technical advisory roles, and other areas of national development. His knowledge, leadership, and commitment have benefited Kiribati in many ways.

Ringkan was recognized for her contribution to agriculture and community welfare. Throughout her career, she has championed sustainable agriculture, encouraged self-reliance, and strengthened food security across Kiribati.

In addition to her agricultural work, she served as a teacher at Kauma Adventist High School and contributed through both government agencies and non-government organizations, helping families, schools, and communities make productive use of local resources.

She is widely known for her personal motto, Man te akea nakon te iai (“From nothing to something”), reflecting her belief that perseverance, hard work, and faith can transform lives and communities.

In congratulating the three recipients, leaders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Kiribati said their lives of service continue to inspire present and future generations to serve their communities with dedication, integrity, and excellence.

The original article was published on the South Pacific Division news site.