Solema was born in Wellington and raised in Porirua. She comes from a family of artists and builders, which influenced her passion for museums, the visual arts and architecture. Solema completed a BA in Art History and Architectual Studies at Victoria, and has continued in post-graduate studies part time in Religion. She plans to continue on to a Masters degree in the field of Religious Architecture within the Pacific, specialising in pre/post european contact in the Melenesian and Polynesian Islands.
Solema's main goal as an intern with National Services Te Paerangi is to gain exposure and experience working within the museum and gallery sector. Solema says that with National Services Te Paerangi she is learning the importance and significance of strengthening the sector, leading to a better museum and gallery experience for workers and visitors alike.