The 2021 Samoan Independence Day, Hong Kong Chapter, showed a part of their culture highlighting the true essence of the Fa’asamoan traditions. Read on and learn a thing or two on how they are as a people. 2021 SAMOAN INDEPENDENCE DAY HOLDS GREAT MEANING FOR ALL SAMOANS The year 2021 marks new independence from the 22-year old ruling of the…

Polynesian collaboration is beautiful in all ways. Here is a project put together for the sake of being counted in the census. It may be a little over the top but I love it that way. Commissioned by the US census, this music video, the Polynesians’ rendition of ‘This Is Me’ is a shoutout to all Polynesians to be counted…

How often are you thankful for your gift of sight? You might agree with me that most often than not, it gets taken for granted. What’s worse, it’s the least thanked for. Meditation reminded me to be mindful of the things I got to see in this lifetime and to take a moment to remember them. I encourage you to…

Hogan Toomalatai

Siva afi, or fire knife dancing is a tradition rooted in Samoan culture that incorporates the Samoan weapon nifo oti, or war knife. Our tribal performers twirl the weapon and showcase other acrobatic tricks that will have you on the edge of your seat as they literally set the stage on fire! –History of Polynesians Performances The 17th Annual International…

Samoan National Costume

Apia, Samoa’s capital, leads the listed Top 20 Cities of Samoa. As it stands vibrant, warm and inviting, Apia remains a busy town, now comprised of 45 villages built around the original village. It has a population of around 40,407. Mt. Vaea, resting place of the author, Robert Louis Stevenson, rises at the south. An extensive garden of lush greens nestled by…

ARRIVING AND DEPARTING FALEOLO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ‘Talofa!’ is how Samoans greet you welcome. But the first ‘welcome to Samoa’ comes forth as soon as one exits the plane and feels the warm tropical air, especially when coming from the middle of winter. With my most recent visit, passing through their Customs and Immigration was very strict. Twice an officer asked me to…

Twice I got to visit the Bahá’í House of Worship in Samoa. And as I inhale the energy of its temple, I can’t help but find its sacred scriptures worth sharing. Undeniably, nations get divided because of their religion. Bahá’í teachings and scriptures rule out all forms of confusion with simple writings that speak great intentions. These writings shed light…