A Tongan woman has been awarded the High Commissioner’s Citations this year for excellence, dedication, commitment and service in support of the Australia-Tonga relationship.

Mele’ofa Mafi was nominated because of her work in the aid program and more broadly in the High Commission, according to a post by the Australia – Tonga on Facebook.

“She has been with the High Commission for nearly 20 years and her services to the Australian government include her depth of financial and Aidworks knowledge.

“‘Ofa manages the High Commission’s relationships on humanitarian issues with the National Emergency Management Office, Red Cross, His Majesty’s Armed Forces and other stakeholders.

“This was particularly important following Cyclone Gita, which included the addition of a large number of disaster relief activities.

“In addition to the valuable contributions she makes to the Aid team, ‘Ofa is a leader and mentor for other local staff at the High Commission.”