The Auckland-raised teenager left school at 15 with no qualifications because he was needed at home to look after his younger brother.
But he said he always wanted to return to his studies when he could.
He began a computer course while working as a cleaner, and since arriving Dunedin at the beginning of last year has completed NCEA levels 1 and 2 through the Salvation Army Employment Plus youth course.
In June, he enrolled at Otago Polytechnic where he is studying for a certificate in business administration.
Mr Moka said he did not think he could achieve NCEA qualifications.
But doing so had given him the confidence to enrol at polytechnic and follow his dreams of a full-time job and overseas travel.
"The future is looking pretty good. Way better than it was before."
His ultimate goal is to pursue a career in musical theatre and to open his own dance studio.
Mr Moka was one of 22 Dunedin people to receive outstanding adult learner certificates at a function held as part of Adult Learners' Week.
The awards recognise students who have performed particularly well at school night classes or in courses run by Literacy Aotearoa and other training organisations.
They also honour outstanding tutors and organisations with innovative teaching programmes.
Thursday night's function was the 12th held in Dunedin.
Outstanding adult learner awards: Paul Barnes, Liliva Belyak, Jennifer Bennett, Nathan Bennett, Pamela Best, Keith Cummings, Stella Deans, Amber Hall, Karyn Hucklebridge, Meli Iaseto, Lynda Jackson, Dylan Kinnaird, Brian Lowe, Leita Mackay, Wesley Moka, Lisa Nelson, Kevin Pritchard, C. J. Ryder, Jenny Swift, Marney Valk, Darryl Wadsworth, Nicky Ward.
Exceptional adult educator awards: Jill Davidson (Otago Polytechnic Foundation Studies); Pip Marden, Sandy McKay, Liz Sharman, Maryanne Symons (Literacy Aotearoa); Otago Polytechnic learning centre staff; Jane Parker (Salvation Army Employment Plus); Antonia Steed (Youthline), Anne Symister (Logan Park High School).
Innovative provider award: English Language Partners.
