The Samoans: A Global Family 9780824841768

Citation preview

fed* A Global Family

Ua fuifui fa'atasi, 'ae vao 'ese 'ese. Gathered into one flock from different parts of the forest. (Samoan)

vsszzm §§ lim ido!

Global Family

Frederic Koehler Sutter Ü UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII PRESS HONOLULU

® 1989 Government of American Samoa All rights reserved Design — Frederic Koehler Sutter Ph.D., and Alan Whistler Artwork by M e t r o Graphics N.Z. Origination and separations by Colorite N.Z. B o u n d and printed in N e w Zealand 95

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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Sutter, Frederic Koehler. The Samoans: a global family/Frederic Koehler Sutter. p. cm. ISBN 0-8248-1238-7 1. Samoans - -Foreign countries — Biography. I. Title. DU818.A2S88 1988 920 .0092994 - - dc19

88-37390 CIP

Dedicated to the people of Samoa, my parents Eleanor and Carl, and my daughter Lisenga

Contents

Foreword IX Author's Note X! Preface XIII The World 2 Samoa 4 Oceania 16 Asia 48 Africa 64 Europe 70 South America 90 Central America and the Carribean % North America 98 Oceania 140 Samoa 144 Autobiographies 158 Bibliography 219

Foreword All too frequently attention is focused on the difficulties experienced by some of our people as they strive to adjust and survive in societies away from home. Little is ever reported on their accomplishments, and rarely are we informed of the obstacles and daily struggles they have had to overcome to achieve success. This book tells the stories of Samoan men and women who have survived and succeeded at home and abroad. For the first time, Samoans throughout the world have been brought together under one umbrella: housewives in Norway, Pennsylvania, and India; world class athletes in the United States, Hong Kong, and Japan; missionaries on six continents; blue collar workers in New Zealand and New Jersey; international civil servants in London, Paris, and the Sudan; and political leaders in Guam, Hawaii, Fiji, and Samoa. The achievements documented in this book represent the pride of our people and the strength of our heritage and culture. I am delighted to present The Samoans: A Global Family, a celebration of the human spirit.

A. P. Lutali Governor of American Samoa 1985-88

Author's Note Work on this project began in the fall of 1985 and was completed in the spring of 1988. The scripting, design and layout took place later that year, and the final editing and printing were completed in 1989. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity of working with both Governor Lutaii and Governor Coleman. They are men of vision. Samoa's global family can be proud of them.

Office of the Governor

American Samoa Government In the world's terms Samoa may seem very small indeed. Ten islands with a land mass smaller than Rhode Island's; 35,000 people in American Samoa and 165,000 in Western Samoa. Almost as many again live beyond our shores. Our culture is our wealth — our country is found in the hearts and minds of our people wherever they are. We are truly one of the world's richest ana largest nations. To turn the pages of this book is to discover this nation — Samoa has her own Cardinal, U.S. Congressman, Delegate to the U.N., world class athletes and most important of all, world class human beings. As the new Governor I am delighted that the Government of American Samoa commissioned Dr. Sutter to compile this family album. The book deserves to be in every school and library wherever our people live. It is magnificent! Soifua,

Peter Tali Coleman Governor of American Samoa 1956-61 1978-84 1989-93

Preface The Samoans: A Global Family is the last part of a trilogy. My first two books, Samoa: A Photographic Essay and Amerika Samoa: An Anthropological Photo Essay, are about the people and culture of Western and American Samoa. This, the final work, is the story of Samoans not only in Samoa but all around the world. In a real sense the book begins ten thousand years ago when a brave and skilled people began to move out of southeast Asia. It was not one long voyage but a series of migrations, discoveries, and settlements. Generations passed and new migrations occurred. Centuries flowed one into another. Over a thousand years before Christ some of these people reached a chain of islands that extends from Ta'u in the east to Savai'i in the west. The people, virtually undisturbed for three thousand years, developed the language and culture of Samoa. At the very heart of that culture is the family — not the small biological family but a wonderfully woven, large, extended family of which the individual is but one strand. Each family has a chiefly title which is associated with a particular village. And since every individual can trace his or her lineage through father, mother, or by adoption, he or she is connected to many families, titles, and villages. In a sense a Samoan also has multiple fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters; for within the extended family, children view their uncles, aunts, and cousins as their parents and siblings. Although a child knows who his biological parents are, that does not preclude him from relating to an uncle as he would to his father. At the head of every extended family is the titleholder — the chief (matai). Unlike most Polynesian cultures wnere a title is hereditary, Samoa is a democratic aristocracy. When the old chief dies, a new one is chosen by a consensus of all the extended family members not only from that village but from other villages and islands as well. Everyone has a say. Consideration is given to a candidate according to the closeness of his or her connection and his service to the family. The choice is important because the chief embodies the family's dignity, holds the family land in trust, represents the family in the village council, and organizes and disciplines members. If a major offense is committed by someone in the family it is the chief, not the guilty member, who can set matters right by making a ritual apology, with a fine mat, before the chief of the offended family. In the colder climates of Europe, North America, and Japan very different cultures evolved. There nature dictated the necessity of producing and preserving in a few short months all that was needed for the rest of tne year. The rigors of those environments required a whole series of technological developments for survival. Metal was available ana money was introduced. Eventually goods, services, and labor could be converted into that medium. What man produced in the spring and summer of his youth and adult years could be invested and saved for the necessities of his old age. The Samoans found another solution to the seasons of life. In the islands, where the climate is warm, the rainfall ample, the soils fertile, and the harvest from the sea abundant, there was little possibility or need for preserving food. There a vastly different culture evolved. The Samoans dieveloped a social technology based on a network of relationships and reciprocal obligations within and between extended families. Without access to metal of any kind they produced their own gold in the form of fine mats — mats that could take years to weave. A Samoan's savings are the contributions of mats, food, and physical assistance he makes to his relatives in their time of need: at the completion of a house or church, when a tattoo is made, upon the assumption of a title, at marriages and births and deaths. All of these are occasions when he can make his sociological deposits. Withdrawals are made when he and his part of the family require assistance.

In 1722 the Dutch explorer Roggeeven sighted Olosega but sailed away without landing. Some forty years later Bougainville passed through the islands, and in 1787 La Perouse briefly landed near A'asu on Tutuila. It wasn't until the arrival of the pioneer missionary John Williams of the London Missionary Society (L.M.S.) in 1830, however, that any detailed record of the culture was made. The Methodists established a mission in 1835 ana the Roman Catholics in 1845. That same year the L.M.S. founded a theological seminary that trained teachers and pastors. Within a relatively short time Samoan missionaries were at work in the New Hebrides (Vanuatu), the Solomons, and Papua New Guinea. Mercantile and political claims were established in Samoa, and in 1900 the Samoan islands were divided. Eventually the eastern islands of Tutuila and Aunu'u, and the Manu'a islands of Ofu, Olosega, and Ta'u passed to the United States and became American Samoa. The western islands of Upolu, Manono, Apolima, and Savai'i became part of the German empire. During the First World War they were taken over by New Zealand and administered as a Mandate under the League of Nations and later as a Trust Territory under the United Nations. In 1962 they became tne independent state of Western Samoa. The Second World War brought thousands of U.S. servicemen to American and Western Samoa. New jobs were created, wages earned, and goods imported on a massive scale. The war ended, the military departed, and Samoa's horizon expanded. In the 1950s the U.S. Navy transferred control of American Samoa to the Department of the Interior. Samoan personnel who worked for the Navy, and their families, were transported to Honolulu. Western Samoa was still administered by New Zealand and a similar movement to that country took place. Given the incredibly strong ties of the extended Samoan family, it was not lonjg before Samoan communities sprang up in Hawaii, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Auckland. A global family was born. In a way this book is a family album. In no way is it meant to be definitive. I believe it is a good beginning but it is not an end. If time, money, and my stamina had allowed, many otners could have been included, even from Moscow and Antarctica. Several years ago Governor Lutali asked me what the book was going to be like. I replied that it was going to be a rainbow. If Samoa's cardinal, in Rome with the Pope, and super athletes represent colors, then the world-class spirit and driving energy of a crippled young man determinedly dragging himself across the land and planting his crop represent another part of the spectrum. The book begins in Falealupo, Savai'i, where the sun sets — the westernmost village in Samoa and the last inhabited place on earth before the International Dateline — and moves westward around the world showing people from the Himalayas of Bhutan to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, from the savannahs of Kenya to the tundra of Alaska, and from the rice paddies of the Philippines to the boulevards of Paris. The journey and the book end in Saua, Ta'u — the easternmost island of Samoa — where the sun rises. In 285 color photographs captioned with proverbs in thirty languages from forty-five countries and twenty states a family is gathered. Each person writes an autobiography — a cowboy in the outback of Australia; a soldier in Honduras; a champion Sumo wrestler in Japan; a stuntman in Hollywood; an NFL football player at the Super Bowl; a jet pilot in northern Alaska; a nun in the slums of Lima, Peru. If this is Samoa's rainbow, and I believe it is, then being the best that you can, being Samoan, is what the pot of gold is all about. No book of this magnitude is possible without the help, encouragement, and support of many people. First and foremost I thank Governor Lutali for his total dedication to the project. His interest and encouragement enabled me to overcome many difficulties. He is a one-man cheering section for whatever he undertakes. His enthusiasm could fill an entire stadium.

Traveling almost continuously for two and a half years was exhausting, and I never could have persevered except for oases of hospitality and love around the world. In Apia this was provided by Faletolu and Ina; in Auckland, Afamasaga and Phillipa Toleafoa; in Wellington, Kelemete and Sally Alo'iai; in Australia, Oskar and Judy Stunzner; in Korea, Kyung Shik and Yon Rio Kim; in Indonesia, Michael and Okke Haribowo; in Brussels, George and Sita Fepulia'i; in London, Neroni Slade; in New York, Nusi and Robin Maula; in New England, Mosi and Lei Tatupu; in Washington D.C., Bo and Anna Dahlborg; in Los Angeles, Terry Tautolo; in San Francisco, Nun Sutter; in Sacramento, Arona and Sa Palamo; in Honolulu, Mosi Tatupu, Sr. and Wayne-Wai Doo; and in Tutuila, Pulesili and Meleane Tuiolosega. I extend my appreciation also to Yolette Nishimoto, manager of the Kaimuki Branch of the Hawaii National Bank, who monitored my VISA account and kept me solvent; Rosie Haas of Eldred, New York, who typed and retyped the autobiographies; Nina Tua'au-Glaude; and Dr. Te'oJ. Fairbairn. In the air, tremendous support was given to the project by South Pacific Island Airways and its president, George Wray. O n land the ultimate in rental car service in Samoa was provided by Pavitt's Rental Cars. My thanks to Jack and Mary Pavitt in Apia and Marilyn Anesi in Pago Pago. As usual I was able to rely completely on the Hata Foto Lab of Honolulu to handle all my photographic needs. A very special thanks to Ernie and TJ Cobeen for all their work. In New York, I wish to acknowledge the invaluable help of my old friend George Laky at Cambridge Camera Exchange. He always kept me appraised of the newest and the best. The final layout, design, typesetting, color separations, and printing were done in New Zealand. I am especially grateful to Metro Grapnics for their meticulous care and creativity with the artwork. Bryan Over, Tom van der Loos, and Alan Whistler all put in many long days and extra hours. The Type Factory, and in particular Donna Brown-Haysom, handled proverbs in thirty languages with the skill and speed of a UN translator. For the color separations made at Colorite Lithographies, many thanks and accolades go to Ian Boyd, Aidan Crabtree, and Keith Bainbriage, a young man who works like Micnaelangelo. So many people in the government of American Samoa went out of their way to ensure that the project was a success. I especially wish to express my gratitude to Cher Vink, Tunatunaolevao F. Vaovasa, Marilyn T. Lea'u, Steven H. Watson, Fenumiai Filemoni Tanielu, Joyita Viena Tuato'o, Sola Tafua Sewell and Lyle Richmond. In spite of many obstacles, they cleared the way and kept their cool, even when I lost mine. I had tour assistants without whose help I could not have succeeded. In New York, my parents Eleanor and Carl handled all my mail, telephone messages, and bills from around the world. My old assistant and friend, Herman Tuiolosega, who now lives with my parents, helped me maintain my sanity when it came time to select the photographs and assemble the autobiographies. He is a treasure. In Pago Pago my other assistant, Apela Malaga, was always there for me. E tasi'ae afe. "Only one — but worth a thousand." Finally, without the help of Samoans everywhere, this book could never have come about. It is a network of love that binds this global family together. Thank you all. Thank you, Samoa. FKS Auckland, New Zealand

me A Global Family

Samoa Upolu

Manono

Apolima

Savai'i

Fa'amatagi.

From the direction of the wind, tell a story from the beginning) (Samoan)

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Samoa e le galu atu. O Samoa! I never will forget you. (Samoan)

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\ (Ja ta'oto le ataata o Taulelei. The reflection of Taulelei lies on the waters. (Samoan) Principal

Prime

Minister

Ua'atoa le faga i Laua. All have assembled in the Bay of Laua, (Samoan)

O le sau o le ola. Life giving dew. (Samoan) Headmistress

Patriot Ta te gase a uluga. Let us die together. (Words of encouragement) (Samoan)

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Farmer la tutu foe o le savili. Pull hard so that we may overcome the wind. (An exhortation) (Samoan)

la tulituli matagau. Follow the direction of the broken yam. (Don't be diverted from your goal) (Samoan) Hotelier — Legend

Master

Fisherman

O le malie ma le tu'u malie. Every shark must be paid for. (Samoan)

Oceania 16

Civil Servant Maka fetoliaki. Chipping rock with rock. (To pass on a benefit) (Tongan)

Tonga

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Deputy Prime Minister Sa cagi na vuna. The wind from tne source. (Reference to skilled work) (Fijian)

18

Tali magi magi. Like the weaving ot sennit. (Reference to a well told tale) (Fijian) Author

s

Solomon Islands

f.«"«

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Fisheries Expert Tude mi mas go fising fo mi. Today I must fish. (Solomon Island Pidgin) Marist Brother Dest aem baebae yumi long desfala pies ia baebae jes stap hapi nao ia. Now we can live in peace. (Solomon Island Pidgin)

22

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College Teacher Saksak i gutpela tru, tasol i hadwok tru long wokim. Sago is nice but hard to obtain. (Papua New Guinea Pidgin)

No manumanu maeka e ririwa veina pe melo ama e ina karona ekamunagirana. Like an insect who responds to light is a child who heeds his parents. (Papua New Guinea Pidgin) Theological Student

28

Ka kata nga puriri o Taiamai Thepuriri trees of Taiamai are laughing to the beauty and perfection of nature) (Maori)

Model Ko Hine-ruhi, koe, te wahine, nana i tu te ata hapara. Like Hine-ruhi, she caused the wonder of dawn to appear. (Maori)

Ngati Awa, te toki tangata i te ra. Ngate Awa, the adze which loosens the sun. (Maori) Rugby Consul

Coach General

Ko te tumu herenga waka. The stake to which the canoe is tied. (Refers to the reliability of a chief) (Maori)

E, ko te matakahi maire. Like a wedge of maire. (That splits the enemy's ranks) (Maori) Rugby

Player Artist

Ko te uhi Uetonga. This is the Chisel of Uetonga. (Reference to the art of tattooing.) (Maori)

^sx^mnpi

aojûaûn QÛS.^ | oomano « sagaci

Blue Collar Worker E moe i tangata ringa raupa. Marry a man with blistered hands. (Maori)

New Zealand Sergeant He toa taumata rau. Bravery has many resting places. (Maori) Detective Tau mahi e te ringa whero. Fit work for the hand of a chief. (Maori)

33

He kura kâinga e hokia; he kura tangata e kore e hokia. The treasure of land persists; human possessions do not. (Maori)

He iti ra , he iti mapihi pounamu. I may be small, but I am an ornament of greenstone. (Reference to quality not quantity.) (Maori)

37

Kia mau koe ki te kupu a tou malua. Hold fast to your father's words. (Maori) History Lecturer

He manga wai koia kia kore e whitikia. It is a big river indeed that cannot be crossed. (Make light of difficulties and they will disappear) (Maori) Law Lecturer

38

älifi

Australia — New South Wales

Bunjil. Actor (Aborigine)

40

Rancher Yarrah-bam-keabram. The land is preserved. (Aborigine)

Queensland

42

éÊm^âê

^aiapKflimiV

Yubba-yubba, nollagidilbe. Hospitality (and) happiness. (Aborigine) Hotel Supervisor

45

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l/l/esfern Australia

Pastor

t< § » I V

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Munie lie nakey emand pumun culpreathier. Thy Kingdom come. (Aborigine)

46

The

Philippines

Japan

Sumo Wrestler A tt - t t A man for one generation, his name forever. (Japanese) 49

w

Dental Technician t

m

ft

The teeth freeze when the lips perish. (Korean)

South Korea T.V. Announcer

W

m*

in -

jt,

Hearing 100 times is not like seeing once.

(Korean) 50

People's Republic of China

52

# i n ® * ft * » Learning is like sailing upstream. (Progress or be washed backward) (Chinese) Students

International Tennis Player

Hong

Kong

Brave as a dragon and lively as a tiger. (Bursting with energy, full of vim and vigour) (Chinese)

Indonesia

Pilot Trainee Sedangkan burungpun in. Even the birds are envious. (Indonesian)

54

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A growing tree's aualities can Ibe discerned from botn sides. (Sinhalese)

3

Student

Sri Lanka

57

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•'•it*, , •-•vife-i.

School

Children

Learning has no limit. (Bhutanese)

India

uir&ou uir^^Sro^ir Lirr?fofT6muJU Do not look upon the vessel but upon that which it contains. (Tamil) Pastor and Wife

L//r|j

Page 15 Right I returned home and did my best to walk again so that I could be of help to my family, myself, and my future. I exercised vigorously and swam a lot, but alas, my efforts were in vain. For 3 years I stayed home without hope. Then I started thinking that it would be best for me to go back to school. Again, I entered Falefa Primary School. I used a horse to De my legs, to carry me to and from school and together with the loving hands of my parents I managed. Two years later, I encountered another misfortune. I fell from the horse and hurt my back and I was hospitalized again. Anxiety and a feeling of deep depression overcame me. It seemed that I was always surrounded by high mountains and steep valleys. I felt that the world was of no use to me anymore. I wondered if there were others like me who experienced the same feelings. The dear friends I had while in good health despised me now and looked upon me as a joke. A life of togetherness and happiness in the past changed to a life of isolation and misery. It was as if a great gulf lay between us; love changed to disdain; happy faces changed to faces I didn't like; loving, extended hands changed to hands of rejection. After 3 weeks in the hospital, I was discharged. There was nothing else they could do for me. I returned home with great sadness. I decided then to seek a cure from the Doctor of doctors through prayer days and nights, and through fasting. The Lord responded kindly. I felt a little better and was able to be of some help to my family. My dear father was taken away by death, and this was an additional depression. On many occasions, I had relied on him for help with my limitations. Anyway, God has authority over everything. Each day was a great effort. Finally I crawled to my father's plantation, cleared the land and planted taro and ta'amu. The days became weeks. I saw the healthy growth of the things I planted. This was a source of great happiness. It didn't matter to me if I looKed like a pig with my body covered with dirt while working, my plants were strong. I also looked further for other means of aid and applied for work at the School for the Blind at Alafamua. I was accepted. For a wnole year I received a wage of 70 sene an hour (35 cents U.S.) and I thanked God for this help. My efforts continued. I heard an announcement that the government needed ticket sellers for the government raffle. I sold raffle tickets during 1978 and '79, earning 6 sene (3 cents U.S.) for every one I sold. After the raffle was drawn, I looked for work at P.J. Pavitts Auto Shop in Leufisa. I found this opportunity through a friend and worked there for 2 years. The shop was then closed for reasons beyond me. I sought employment at Paul Bartley's Auto Shop and again worked for another 2 years. I had conversations with people who had been to New Zealand and realized that I felt an urge to go there. I beseeched my mother that I wanted to go. My mother got a loan for my plane fare. I left my job and travelled to New Zealand. I stayed there for 6 months with relatives before returning to Samoa in 1981. I lived at home and applied for an opportunity to enter A'oga ole Loto attending this school now, with tne hope that nere Taumafai. I am be blessed with a better opportunity for the future,

Tupuola Fa'asao: Traditional Fishing Master. Siumu, Upolu, Samoa I was born on the 26th of June, 1928 at Fausaga, Upolu. My father, Taliulu Tuiuli came from the same village. My mother Olosega Tu'ulau was from Olosega, Manu'a. When I was young I went to school for a year or two but wanted to be fishing with my father. He was a tautai, a master fisherman. The whole village looked to him when organizing a fishing expedition. He chose the location and the timing in relation to the tides. It wasn't long before I stopped attending school and stayed home to work in our plantation or to go fishing with him. I especially remember the times we made tiuga malie or lepaga, lassoing sharks. We'd go out in a fautasi, a long boat requiring from 12 to 22 or more rowers. First we made an umu, a ground oven, and cooked a pig. The body was for the men, the uncooked legs for the sharks. We usually set out around 3 in the afternoon and rowed until we reached the far sea where we'd fish all night. We first shook coconut rattles in the water and after a while the sharks would come. It made us happy to see them for unlike other fish once they came they'd never run away. Some were wild and some quiet but it didn't matter, we knew we'd get them. Several lines of bait were let out and slowly pulled in until only one was left. My father would pull that line right along the side of the boat and through a noose. When the shark followed he tightened the noose and pulled the shark's head out of the water. Another man pushed a pole down its throat and my father clubbed it with his other hand. Anytime you are hunting sharks you can get in trouble. Once when my brother and I were young we went after sharks at night with the hook. I told my brother to tie the rope to the front of the canoe but he tied it to the back. The shark took the bait and dragged the boat. The canoe capsized and swamped. We grabbed and held onto the paddles and bamboo poles, anything that was floating. There we were miles from land in the middle of tne night with a shark hooked somewhere below us. There was nothing to do but pray. The sun finally came up and we saw our boat 100 yards away and in the distance another va aalo (large 2 to 3 man canoe). With tneir help we righted our boat and pulled in the shark. It was a great white. When we got to shore we cut it up, dividing it according to Samoan custom. The top of the head and fin went to the pastor, the chest to the aualuma, (unmarried girls), the head to the taulefe'a, untitled men, and the tail to the chiefs, etc. I've been a fisherman for many years. In 19801 bought a double canoe and outboard. I fish and sell my catch in the market. We mostly use hooks now but once in awhile, I like to go after sharks the real Samoan way, with the lasso.

Oceania Tonga Fiji N e w Caledonia Solomon Islands Papua N e w Guinea N e w Zealand Australia Guam

Author's Note: Amato is back home working his plantation. To enable him to get on his horse he built small platforms with steps. One is at home, the other in his plantation. Wearing a pair of leggings he made from inner tubes he drags himself across the land planting, cultivating and harvesting his taro. His hands and arms are his feet ana legs. Amato supports his mother and sister. To look at the energy, determination and life force in this young man is to see true strength.

162

Page 17

Page 19 Left

Page 19 Right

Miti Siamomua: Government Officer. Kingdom of Tonga

Ratu David Toganivalu: Deputy Prime Minister. Fiji

Albert Wendt: Author, Professor of English — Photo: Suva, Fiji

I was born on the 4th of August, 1958 in the village of Vaovai, Falealili, Upolu. My initial education was at the pastor's school. When I was 5,1 began to attend our village Primary school. In 19711 entered Falealili Junior High School. I was fortunate enough to qualify for Samoa College, and it was there that I received my secondary training and successfully attained my N.Z. University Entrance Exam. Througn a government scholarship I had the opportunity for further studies at the University of the South Pacific (USP), Suva, Fiji. In the course of my studies at USP I met Amelia Kinahoi of Tonga and married her in 1982. At the completion of our studies in 1985 we decided to settle in the Kingdom of Tonga. That is how I happen to be working in the Ministry of Labour, Commerce and Industries. I m presently the senior Executive officer. I'm happy to be in Tonga. I enjoy the people and their customs. I wear the ta'uvalu arouna my waist as a mark of respect for those around me. Originally it was only worn to church or when you went to see the monarch. As a Samoan I was brought up to show respect. Tnis is the way it's done in Tonga. I am happy to be here. If ever I come across a fellow Samoan and can help him it will mate me very happy indeed.

I was born on Vanua Levu, Fiji on the 20th of May, 1934. At the age of 4 I was taken by canoe to the island of Bau where my grandfather was living in retirement. He had named me after him and so he took over the responsibility of bringing me up. Later I went to live with the Anglican vicar and his wife at Levuka. The experience greatly improved my command of the English language. I lived with them for four years before returning to Suva. I lived a year with Ratu Sir Kamasese Mara before going on to New Zealand for my primary and secondary education. I returned to Fiji and worked for the government but wasn't satisfied and went into commerce with W R Carpenters Merchants, an Australian based firm. We traded in copra and merchandise. After some 2 years I had learned the ropes of stock taking and costing and was posted to the island of Taveuni. A year later I was made the manager. I was 22. Although I stayed with them for a while I wasn't all that happy. Both my parents were heavily related in that area and I spent a year, a wonderful year living with my relatives in the traditional way. I experienced a life I'd never known. I returned to Suva and initially worked in the Fijian Banana ventures. Eventually I applied for a post in the Governor of Fiji's office, handling SPC (South Pacific Commission) and Pitcairn Island matters. Pitcairn was still under the Governor of Fiji. In 1964,1 accepted a scholarship to Cambridge University for a postgraduate course in development. I had no degree but they assessed my experience and felt I could handle the work. The course was originally designed to train members of the Colonial Service before they were posted to the colonies. But as most of the colonies were moving towards independence they reversed the process and brought people from the colonies to do the course. It was evident in 1968, that Fiji would soon become independent. We had to prepare ourselves for the eventuality. After 1 year in the civil service I resigned ana took up the position of Secretary of the Alliance Party and was National Secretary of the Fijian Association. We were preparing for the elections of 1968. I stood for Parliament, was elected ana have been in politics ever since. I've had 7 portfolios since that time and presently hold the portfolios of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Fijian Affairs. As you know I am part Samoan. It is a connection that I treasure very much. Wnen the first Forum was held in Samoa, my mother was still alive and suggested that I go to Samoa and trace our ancestry. I went and was introduced to our relatives in Fasito'o tai, Upolu. They remembered stories about a lady, Lalomauga who had eloped witn a Mr Miller. She gave birth to William Henry Miller. Tney settled in Savusavu, Fiji. My mother a descendant, married into Bau. My relatives acknowledged our link in the most emphatic way. They bestowed on me the family title of Toleafoa. So you see there's a part of Samoa even in Fiji.

Born in Tauese, Apia in 1939, my father is Tuaopepe Henry Wendt, great grandson of Maualaivao Fili of Malie, and of the Aiga of Sao of Sapapali'i. My mother was Luisa Patu of Vaiala, granddauther of Asi Tunupopo of Moata'a; she died when I was fourteen years old. I had my elementary education in Apia, then, on a government scholarship, went to high school, teachers' college, and university in New Zealand. My wife, Jenny, ana I returned to Samoa at the beginning of 1965, taught at Samoa College, and was Principal there in the early 1970s. Been working at the University of the South Pacific since 1974. As senior lecturer, then Assistant Director of Extension Services, Centre Director in Samoa, Professor of Pacific Literature, Head of the School of Education, and now Pro Vice Chancellor. At the start of 1988 I'll be Professor of English at the University of Auckland. Basically, I've been a teacher nearly all my working life. Have taught at nearly every level of the education system. Ana trying to be a writer. Fortunate as a child to have a grandmother, Mele Tuaopepe, who was the greatest storyteller and seer I've ever known. Dazzling fagogo spinner, not just of Samoan tales but of the stories of the Grimms Brothers and Aesop and the Bible. She ordered everything into stories, anecdotes, and wise insights. All in the music of the mother tongue. Fortunate to have a mother who played the Samoan folk guitar and sang to us of love and an unending childhood. Fortunate to have a father who was a gifted and accomplished musician, choir master, and band leader. He trained many village churcn choirs and bands. He's also the most enduring plumber in the Pacific! It was from them ana a culture rich in oral traditions and courage that I acquired this irrepressible compulsion to write, to spin my own yarns and songs. (I regret I've not become a musician, a rock musician!) I've been trying to write part-time mainly) for over 25 years now. I hope to keep on trying for a little longer. Plumbing the depths for yarns that'll give meaning to my trying. But most of all, I've been lucky to be with Jenny, Sina, Mele, ana Michael, my immediate aiga. And part of the Samoa Wendt clan which is now international. Books: Sons for the Return Home — a novel; Pouliuli — a novel; Leaves of the Banyan Tree — a novel; Flying Fox in a Freedom Tree — a collection of stories; Inside Us the Dead — collection of poems; Shaman of Visions — collection of poems. Many of these have been published in many foreign languages. Great feeling to have 'Leaves of the Banyan Tree' published in Chinese in China: The possibility of 900 million readers is mindblowing!

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Palauni M. Tuiasosopo: Secretary General, The South Pacific Commission. Noumea, New Caledonia I was born on 18th of September, 1937. My father was Mariota Tuiasosopo of Vatia and Fagatogo and my mother Venise Fa'asisina of Amanave, Tutuila. Very early in my life I became aware of concepts of things and, although it was difficult to express my thoughts and opinions they nevertheless existed in my mind as I grew up. As I began to internalize my thoughts I became aware of a real possibility of looking at people and things and concepts from an overview perspective. But at all times I was very much aware, I can recall as early as when I was 7 years old, of the importance or excelling. While I cannot remember if I really did excell at that age, I do recall feeling the value of work and preparation as ingredients to excellence. It was not difficult, given my father's influence and the atmosphere in our home. There were always books and magazines — opportunities galore to read, or to be forced to read, English and Samoan. I remember studying past the nights and into the dawn, many times. And I remember also sensing the excitement of knowing or learning about new things. At about the same time I began to feel the value of participation in activities and with people as a means of learning. The Samoan pastor's school was an excellent motivation to do well. Although they were not of my denomination, Rev. Fit! Sunia and Savali became my "god parents — and I felt then that it was my choice. I was fortunate because we nad no pastor in our church at the time and they were willing to accept me. They not only influenced my life in the church but also added to my sense of accomplishment. I remember my "father" Fiti saying to me not to be concerned about my accomplishments in relation to others but my success in terms of my own efforts. I remember agreeing with it because I had already decided not to worry about others but to concentrate on improving my own performance to meet my own standards for myself. I remember feeling fortunate that Samoana High School seemed to be so easy. There was no real challenge probably because I had become very interested in reading by that time. I felt real excitement in learning English and other higher subjects. And it was fun to anticipate my grades. Somehow I always knew that I was going to make the Honor Roll. But Punahou, in Honolulu, was a totally different story. The competition was beyond my reach but it was a real excitement to stretch myself to accomplish something. This was the last year I saw my father and the first time he really spoke to me man to man. I shall always remember the feeling when my father finally talked to me by myself. He never pushed me — but emphasized that the extent of my success, in the final analysis, depended entirely on how well I utilized the opportunities available to me. My father always told me that his real intention in sending his children away to school was not just to receive a college education but tb learn about American society. He said that it wasn't enough to just get a degree — it was a formula that would have to be adjusted to the Samoan situation. He said to be really useful I should learn all I could about American Society — the way Americans think, especially the young people, because they too were growing up to be decision makers in their country. Somehow he knew that I was going to be Americanized. He impressed on me the value of having a sense of identity. Interestingly enough, my American parents, Jeffery and Betty Holbrook indicated more than just a few times the same value. They had never met my parents but took care of me like one of their own children in Oregon. It was not surprising to me therefore that the more I became Americanized the more I became conscious of being Samoan. My father also alerted me to the fact that I would need to make readjustments to Samoa upon returning — that the real test of my acquired knowledge in America was how well I could make it relevant to my country.

Page 23 Left I wasn't a very good student in college but there was a great deal of soul searching and learning to prepare myself for going home. In the final analysis I was scared as the time grew nearer to return to Samoa, i wasn't sure I coula cut the mustard once I got back. I nad overheard many discussions my father had with other chiefs and older members of my family. I remember him talking about the importance of developing a plan for American Samoa's future. He often mentioned the fact that American Samoa could not always expect handouts from America. It was important to look at all means and possibilities for the future. His participation in the First South Pacific Conference was a big deal for me, especially when he came home and explained the excitement of trying to develop contacts and relationships with other Pacific islands. When Governor John Haydon sent me to the South Pacific Conference in 1969 to make a personal assessment of the organization in terms of possible value to American Samoa, I was filled with excitement. I was following in my father's footsteps. When I returned my mother asked me how it was. I knew sne was excited and I told her of my aspiration to one day become the Secretary General. My 24 years in the Govenor's Office and in the American Samoa Government were an exciting period of growing up. It was exciting everyday to watch history in the making and to help to write it. I had my own concepts of work already developed. There was always potential to be able to do anything if one really wanted to do it. I am here now as head of the most comprehensive organization in the Pacific region and I feel small among the giants who conceived the concept of regional cooperation among the Pacific islands and who had the vision to look down the halls of time and to recognize regional cooperation as a means to accomplishing their aspirations for development. Ana now it's happening.

Gafauatau, Philipp Muller: Fisheries Expert. Honiara, Solomon Islands If asked what has been the greatest influence in my life I must admit that it has been my family, my wife, Marie, and my mother, Adele (Kopi) Purcell Malaela. My mother was born in Aleipata, Upolu in 1907 and has had a full and active life. She now lives in Suva, Fiji, and recently at 80, completed a 10 kilometer walkathon. Her self reliance started early in life when her father died in the influenza epidemic of 1918. Perhaps this trait lies behind the high mobility which has scattered my brothers and sisters over 5 countries. I was born in Suva, on 13th June, 1938 and my earliest memories are of military exercises, camps and hospitals. I feel blessed that I have been free of militarism although I aidn't always think that way. My youth was spent in rural Samabula which was then dairy farms. Our favourite past time, beside just plain loafing, was fishing among the mangroves of Kinoya. I didn't start school until I was 7 and don't have many memories of those days. I do however remember that a badly broken arm ana poor health prevented me from being fully occupied with sports. As a consequence I was more retiring and a better student. The Marist Brothers school in Suva did its best to prepare young men. But nothing could have prepared me for boarding school in New Zealand. At 161 arrivecTin Auckland with a terrible dose of culture shock. It was not long however before I was swept along in the New Zealand rugby tradition and ended up playing Rugby League in a Samoan team. I completed a BSc at Auckland in 1962 and spent the following year training with the New Zealand Meterological Service in both New Zealand and Fiji. Then in 19651 returned to New Zealand for training at the Geophysic Division of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. I finally came home to Samoa and took charge of Apia Observatory which ran the meterological service. In my 12 years there, my special efforts were directed at staff training, so that Samoans could completely run the Observatory. We tried to emphasize the establishment of hydrological services. Much of the present water resource development in Western Samoa is influenced by this earlier work. I have very fond memories of our field work for the hydropower schemes which are now being implemented and which will serve Samoa for many years to come. My appointment in 1976 as Chairman of the Western Samoa Public Service Commission was a rather radical shift. It was a change which proved both challenging and stimulating. During my term the Public Service Act was passed. This was followed by a comprehensive review of regulations and instructions. Occupational classifications were instituted and start training re-established. Having spent so much of my life away from home the bestowal of the matai title Gafauatau in 1978 was a very special honour for me. That year at the age of 40,1 cast my first ballot. My return to science in 1980 as a UN Field Expert was a personal challenge and afforded me an opportunity to focus on my profession even if for only one year. It was against this background that our move to Honiara and the Forum Fisheries Agency was made in 1981. It was not without difficulty, geographic and professional. The area in which I was to work was completely new to me. Since its initial difficulties the Aeency has gone from strength to strength. Our staffing was kept deliberately small to allow for quick movement and flexible programmes. We are now geared to provide an efficient service to member countries without bureaucratic delays. The challenges for regionalism are no where better demonstrated than in the area of fisheries. I have come to feel that my most effective role is that of a regionalist.

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Page 25 Top The future is still in the realm of the unknown although my dream is to pass something on through teaching. That will be yet another opportunity and challenge.

Page 23 Right Father Francis Vasa: Marist Brother. Guadalcanal, The Solomon Islands When I was young and visited Moamoa Seminary, I watched the priests and their work. That's how the desire to be a priest came to me. I made my novitiate in Sydney 1966-69 and then served in Taveuni (Fiji), returning to Samoa for a year, back to Fiji before leaving for Futuna to make my final vows where St Peter Chanel is buried. Author's Note: From 1979 till now Father Vasa has been laboring in the Solomons with the many unemployed young men, teaching them vocational skills like carpentry and farming, and such simple mechanics as how to repair a sewing machine. He has suffered 3 serious bouts of malaria and was still recovering from the third attack. When he arrived in the Solomons, 8 years ago, he weighed 60 pounds more than he does today. He is 43 years old.

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Kuresa Tagai: College Teacher. Boroko, Papua New Guinea Much of my life has been influenced in one way or another by the church, particularly the Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) Church of which I am a member. I say "particularly" because the SDA church has not been the only church to have had an influence on my life. I first learned to read in 1951 when I attended the Methodist pastor's school in my home village, Fasito'outa, Upolu, at the age of 5. My older sister, Tupou, was in Class 1 doing what to me was "higher learning". I was only a beginner in the Vasega Failautusi (Reading Class) where we nad to learn to read (our textbook, the Bible) before we were allowed into Class 1. I did not return to that pastor's school the next year. It was not because of my performance in the Reading Class. My father, Taga'i Tui, and mother, Siimoa (nee Kuresa), had recently become members of the SDA church, so I next went to the SDA pastor's school at Satomai (Tufulele). My sister and I walked 4 km. each day for the next two years. Walking to Pastor Papu's school was uneventful except for the fact that we were nearly always late. Walking home was much more fun. There was a cool pool at Faleasi'u, where rdswim in my birthday suit. And if the mango trees nearby were fruiting we had an early lunch, a big bonus for two hungry children who normally had their first meal when they got back home at 2 in tne afternoon. After a row with my mother over her refusal to let us go on a school picnic, Pastor Papu refused to have us back. Thus my sister and I found ourselves back at the village school in Fasito'outa. Even there, we keenly felt the influence of the church. My sister, younger brother and I were labelled "fools" because our family had embracea Adventism, something new in a village which was traditionally LMS (Congregational), Methodist and Catholic. Despite our new label, my brother and I in my last year, topped two of the grades in school. While attending the Adventist school in Apia I made one of the most farreaching decisions of my life. In 1960 at the conclusion of Form 2 all pupils were to choose the high school they wanted to attend the following year, I cnose Fulton College (Fiji) instead of Samoa College, the most prestigious high school in all of Samoa. I tilled out an application form and sent it off. My parents however would have nothing to do with this decision. And their arguments were sound. They were poor and could not afford to pay Fulton fees which were 6 times those of Samoa College. Furthermore, at 14,1 was considered too young to leave home to attend a boarding school in another country across the Pacific. I was to apply for a place in Samoa College, Fulton was out of the question. This, for me, was a bitter disappointment. The next day I filled out an application form for Samoa College. Two weeks later word arrived from Fiji that I had been accepted at Fulton. A day later I was accepted at Samoa College. That weekend I went home to tell my parents the good news, that is, my acceptance to Fulton College. I did not mention Samoa College. After a lot of head-scratching and wondering where the money would come from, I meekly suggested I could work. For the next 2 months I was the campus boy for the SDA mission compound. I cut grass, mowed lawns, swept and picked up rubbish and generally kept the compound looking trim — all tor the grand sum of 1 shilling an hour! At the end of 2 months I had earned 23 pounds, almost half my fees. My success at Fulton over the next 4 years is a tribute to my parents' prayers and their hard work to earn enough to pay my expenses. The least I could do was to make them proud with some encouraging reports. In 19621 scored the only full pass on tne Fiji Junior Examinations and in 19641 was 1 of 3 Fulton candidates who passed the Cambridge School Certificate Exam.

By 19651 was asked to teach English, Maths, Social Science and Commercial Practice to Forms 3 and 4. The transition from student to teacher in less than 3 months wasn't easy, particularly since many of my students were my former classmates, and some were older tnan I. After 3 years of teaching at Fulton, I was sponsored by the SDA church to go to Avondale College, Australia. I graduated with a BA in 1972 and while there I met and married Maryanne Jackson. The years 1973-1985 (except 1981 when I did a Dip.Ed. at Massey University, New Zealand) were spent teaching English, History and Geography to upper high school students in three SDA schools — Lalovaea in Samoa (1973-1976), Fulton College, Fiji (1966-1980), Kosena College, Samoa (1982-1983), and back to Fulton College (1984-1985). I was deputy principal at Lalovaea, ana principal at Kosena. Presently I am in Papua New Guinea where my wife and I teach at the Pacific Adventist College, our tertiary institution for the South Pacific region. It is gratifying to see our former students finding their place in society and filling responsible positions in just about every country in the South Pacific. I am nappy that my usefulness has been multiplied many times over in the lives of my pupils. It would have been difficult to accomplish this had I become anything otner than a teacher.

Page 25 Bottom Paul Siope: Theological Student. Papua New Guinea I was born on the 26th of August, 1960, in a little town called Taihape in the North Island of New Zealand. Being the first born in both my father and mother's families, my parents and uncle decided to dedicate me to the Lord. They selected a Bible name and called me Paul, with hopes that I would be a preacher. Oblivious to this, I grew up within the context of a beautiful Samoan and Christian home. In 1964, we moved to Auckland. I started school. Looking back, it was there that the initial culture shock took effect. At home, I was a Samoan. I was taught to think Samoan, act Samoan, disciplined Samoan and taught to be proud of my heritage which gave me a set of values that I cherish. But being Samoan and born in a westernized country became a traumatic experience. Outside home, I was confronted by a culture that was totally different in its emphasis and values. The pressure was stupendous with both cultures demanding and conflicting. Nobody seemed to understand what I was going through. No one seemed to are. The tension so confused me that it distorted my outlook on my family, church and identity. Rebellion took its course and beginning at the age of 9,1 repeatedly ran away. Although my parents gave me the opportunity to gain a good education, I wasted it, wagging school to play basketball, pool, and go to the movies. By the young age o i l 3,1 left home determined never to return. A year later, I left school and became a street kid. I worked on a milk run and pulled nails out of car cases, living with friends and relatives. On many occasions, I slept in sheds and telephone boxes, anywhere to find shelter. Having to exist in such a lifestyle, I learned boxing and the martial arts as a form of defense and to assist in criminal acts. On numerous occasions my parents had to bail me out of police custody for stealing and fighting. To them, I was a nightmare and an embarrassment, so much so, that my father disowned me. C>

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During the day I worked at the Sanitarium Health Food Company where at 161 successfully became the youngest foreman in the company. At nignt I turned to drinking, drugs and nightclubbing. Disco dancing became an obsession. After a major dancing competition, I was asked to tutor a group of dancers from all over New Zealand who later travelled on an Australasian road show. Even though I was the way I was, I frequently attended church. One day my eyes fell on a beautiful young lady. She was the church pianist. Captivated by her cnarm and personality, I asked if she would consider me her boyfriend. We started courting much to the disapproval of her family. We survived and later were married. I was only 17, unstable, and unemployed. Money was essential for establishing a home. In desperation and frustration I reverted to drugs, drinking and bad company which created a bad atmosphere in our family, and led to arguments and an unstable home. I went from job to job, eventually finding work with reasonable pay. This helped steady our family as we reaped the benefits of a secure income. I began playing Rugby League for Otahuhu Rovers and was encouraged by a coach who saw in me tne potential to excel. It was, however, at this time that the best possible intervention took place. My wife suggested that we attend a religious meeting. I reluctantly agreed and we went. When the preacher rose and spoke, I was riveted to my seat. It was as if he were speaking directly to me. He appealed to us to make our stand for Christ. The message had found its place in my heart. Right there and then, I felt tears in my eyes. I tried to balance them to prevent them from falling, repeatedly telling myself, that I was over-reacting and that it was just an emotional phase — that only suckers, women, children and chickens gave themselves to Jesus. I succeeded that day — I did not stand! The next 2 weeks my soul was in turmoil. I felt God a i l i n g me to accept Him, but I refused! Those weeks seemed like years. I couldn't sleep! One morning, I rolled out of bed and fell on my knees in prayer. Pleading with the Lord, I said, "You've been bugging me for 2 long weeks, now I earnestly want to know what is it that you really want from me, for I will not get up from my knees until you reveal your will for me". Then the most dramatic thing happened, I felt called to be a Preacher. I got up from my knees and broke the news to my wife. Since that day, our lives have never been the same because Christ has become the centre of our home. My wife Fiona and I have only started walking with Christ. These 3 years have truly been the happiest of our lives. We now have 2 lovely boys Damas and Liam ana a beautiful baby girl, Danika. We are now living in Papua New Guinea where I am studying Theology and endeavouring to graduate with a Bachelor's degree at the Pacific Adventist College. When I graduate I hope to have an open parish working with the Pacific Island and Samoan youth on tne streets and in the bars and pool halls I learned to know so well. With God's help I hope to enable my brothers and sisters to better understand their cultural struggles. For we are blessed of God to have the privilege of being bi-cultural. Having that, we are especially suited for His service, and toDe bridges in a multkulturalsociety.

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Afamasaga Fa'amatala Toleafoa: Western Samoa Consul General. Auckland, New Zealand

Bryan George Williams: Lawyer, Coach — Auckland, New Zealand

I was born on 25 May, 1945 at Fasitootai where I also grew up. My childhood is probably best described as typically Samoan — lots of adults to boss you around but also to fuss over you, especially when you are living with your grandparents. My father is Toleafoa Aukuso Winterstein. (Grandfather Carl Ernst August Winterstein came out from Quedlinburg, a small town in what is now East Germany, to work for Deutcne Handels and Plantagen Gesellschaft der Suedsee — Inseln zu Hamburg in the Pacific. He later settled in Samoa and is buried at Nofoalii, Upolu.) My mother, Tagifano Lealaisalanoa is of Fasitootai and Leulumoega. Vivid memories remain of tagging along behind grandfather to village fonos (meetings) and other matai (chiefly) gatherings so he could give me most of the food he was served. I also remember going on trips as far away as Apia with a stern and matriarchal grandmother to attend family gatherings and lotus (services) — an early introduction to the Samoan concept of aiga potopoto (extended family). A change of school from Fasitootai Primary School to Samoa College at age 13 brought a major change of lifestyle. It meant among other things living in town, Apia during the week, and going home only on weekends. It was my first real contact with 'life in town". I remember not caring much for it then, a feeling that has not really changed. A government scholarship provided passage to Timaru Boys High School and then Otago University in New Zealand. Timaru is a small but pretty town on the east coast of the South Island. It is probably best known for its frosty winters and rich farmlands. Like most New Zealanders, the Timaruvians love their national game, rugby. I am sure that gaining a berth on the school's First XV team also meant a comparatively easy passage through what might have been a difficult first year away from home. Rugby continued to help open doors at Otago University where I studied for an M.Com (Econ) especially when provincial and national honours came my way in both rugby union and league. I also met my wife Phillipa at Otago, got married and had the first of our 3 children, Claudine. Chad and Vaitoa were to arrive later in Samoa and Fiji. Working life began at the Department of Economic Development, Samoa. Secondment to SPEC, the South Pacific Forum secretariat in Suva nowever, started a career in the diplomatic service, which has meant spending the most part of my working life outside Samoa. SPEC was followed by an assignment as First Secretary in Wellington to set up and help run Western Samoa's first diplomatic mission abroad. Then for 2 years I worked as an economist at the South Pacific Commission, in New Caledonia, before my present appointment as Western Samoa's ConsulGeneral in Auckland. While in Auckland, I became involved with the work of the Polynesian Heritage Trust; which is probably best described as an attempt by the traditional leaders of Polynesia to play a more active role in the preservation and enhancement of Polynesian culture and values. There is a strong emphasis on the utilization of television and film. The organization is headed by nis Majesty Taaufa'ahau Tupou IV, king of Tonga, and currently includes leaders or the N.Z. Maoris, Cook Islands, Niue, Fiji, Samoa and Hawaii. As a diplomat posted overseas, one is constantly reminded of one's Samoaness and of the need to represent one's country and heritage truly. One also comes to be fully aware of tne true worth and value of that heritage. For the many Samoans who nave left their homeland to live and work overseas, that heritage has proven to be a remarkable source of strength and resilience.

I was born in Auckland on the 3rd October, 1950. My father is Arthur Williams and my mother is Eileen Williams, (nee Bouchier). My father was born in Apia in 1923 to an Australian father Arthur Williams, ana Samoan mother Telesia Tuala. My mother is the eldest of six daughters born to Cecil John Bouchier, originally born in Capetown, South Africa of Irish descent and Agnes Mitchell, of Samoan and English stock. I have lived in Auckland, New Zealand all of my life and consider myself a true-blue kiwi. Since leaving school, I have completed a Law degree at Auckland University and for the past nine years have been in partnership with two of my close friends in a legal practice in Central Auckland. I am married to Lesley and we have four children, Marie, Gavin, Paul and Gina. Perhaps, the biggest impression I have made in New Zealand is as a rugby player. I was selected for the All Blacks to make a controversial tour to South Africa in 1970 as one of the first people with Polynesian blood to tour that country. That tour established my rugby career and for the next eight seasons, I played for the All Blacks finally ending up with a tally of 113 games and 66 tries (which is still a record). It truly was a wonderful chapter in my life, and one that continues now that I am the coach of the Auckland rugby team which is establishing a few records of its own. I am now Chairman of the Pacific Island Youth Leadership Trust which has been established to help young New Zealand Pacific Islanders with their education and also to promote and encourage their leadership qualities.

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Michael Jones: Rugby Player — Auckland, New Zealand I was born on the 8th April, 1965 in Henderson, Auckland, New Zealand. My father, Derek Jones, a New Zealander passed away when I was four. My mother, Maina Apa, from Moata'a, Upolu, Samoa is part of the Asi Falanaipupu title. I suppose I consider myself a "Kiwi-Samoan". In our neighbourhood I grew up with mainly Polynesian children. My friends and I loved being outside, mucking around in the fields and bush around our houses — we could never be kept inside. One of the outdoor pursuits nearly every New Zealand youngster is madly involved in is rugby football — one of three things New Zealanders commonly refer to as their greatest pastimes i.e. Rugby, Racing, and Beer. To become an "All Black" and to wear the black uniform of the national representative team is nearly every young Kiwi boys dream. Indeed it was mine, my brother and friends and I always went around barefoot pretending to be our favourite All Blacks — mine being B.G. Williams because he was not only great but because he was half Samoan like me. There is a saying that when the Samoans gave up war they took up Rugby — the way they play certainly reflects that notion. My mates and I joined the local Rugby Club when we were seven and from those early beginnings, after a lot of years of Rugby and playing Provincial and National age group representative rugby I finally was selected for the All Blacks in 1987 at age 22, for the first World Cup heldin Australia and New Zealand. For this boyhood dream to come true was a very proud moment and a very great honour — especially when it meant representing the country of my birth, and of my father's but also because I was representing the Samoan people

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and my family. It also gave me the chance to represent Western Samoa in Rugby. However as a Christian, one of my beliefs is the setting aside of Sunday as the Lord's day — one where I go to Church and spend time with my family. As a family we have always felt the need for this. There have been times when I've been selected to play for New Zealand on Sunday, for example against Wales in 1987, but I have made the decision to honour the Lord's Day and subsequently missed selection. That is part of who this Kiwi-Samoan is.

Barbara Rose McDowell: Model — Auckland, New Zealand

In 19851 met Franz and Magda Baeton of Belgium. They had a little lithograph studio where they made prints. Franz taught me how to draw on stone. Tnere was an immediate affinity with the materials in front of me. It was like going back to my childhood. The magical moment came when the first prints were made, the paper lifted and there was my vision reproduced. We made 4 prints and the stone broke. Franz and Magaa wouldn't let me leave that night until I began working on another stone. It's very exacting work. There is no erasing. One mistake and the whole stone has to be sanded down. A process that takes hours. I've now had several exhibitions but tor me the most important one was held at Samoa House. The mayor of Auckland opened the show and so many of my countrymen came and liked my art. For me it was the initiation of my gift.

Born on July 17th 1965 in Auckland, New Zealand to Robert Houston McDowell of Belfast, Northern Ireland and Freda Westbrook of Apia, Upolu, Samoa. • Miss A u c k l a n d 1984 • Mrs N e w Zealand 1986 • Miss N e w Zealand 1984 • Mrs W o r l d 1987

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At time of publication autobiography had not been received.

Sgt. Paul LePou: New Zealand Army. Wellington, New Zealand Multinational Observer Force, Sinai, Egypt

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Fatu Feu'u: Artist. Auckland, New Zealand I was born on the 9th of March, 1946 in Poutasi, Upolu. Both my father Feu'u Tuitapa, and my mother Povalu Taulealo came from Poutasi. As a child I loved to watch the people around me make things, the old ladies worked on tapa, the carpenters made boats and houses and the tufuga tatau (tattoo master) worked on men. I can remember it all. There were many children in our family but not enough money to pay all their school fees. I was sick a lot of the time so I stayed home. The best part of that was being with my grandfather. He was always interested in what I was up to. One day I was sitting on the house platform drawing on the black lava rock with a piece of coral. Grandfather likea it a lot and tola me so. I never forgot that. When I first went to school a wonderful thing happened. Each of us was given our own slate and chalk. Whenever I wasn't interested in the teacher's program, I could draw. My father sold his truck in 1960 and we moved to Apia. Some of the proceeds went to pay for my fees at Samoa College. But school was a struggle for me, I was always thinking or my art when I was expected to be learning something else. Half-way through my 5th Form the money ran out. I returned to Poutasi and worked in our plantation. A year later, I left for New Zealand. I lived with my uncle in Auckland and held a series of jobs from dry cleaning to painting cars. I was married in 1968 and began working for a plastics firm. The company shifted and I went along. Gradually I worked my way up to the color controller. Eventually I was transferred to our design and styling center and was made the company's design consultant, a position I ve held since 1979. All this time my art wasn't forgotten. It was like the back of my hand, not used but always there. In 19801 met two New Zealand artists who encouraged me a great deal, Tony Formison and Phil Clairmont. They told me to stop painting like my high school teacher and to paint what was inside of me. I had been painting what everyone wanted, palm trees, canoes, and fales (traditional thatched houses). I began to incorporate Samoan motifs, tapa and tattoo patterns into New Zealand seascapes.

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I was born Pese Fogalepolo LePou on 18 September, 1955 at St Helen's Maternity Hospital in Wellington, New Zealand. My father is Etuale August LePou originally from Lepea, Upolu and my mother is Siapo Helen LePou, nee Sua Filo of Fasito'o, Upolu. I am second in a family of 8 children. Originally there were nine, 5 brothers and 4 sisters, but as a result of an accident my brother Michael died at the age of 16. Initially we lived in Wellington where we rented a house from the Catholic church next door to St Bernard's Chapel. We left there when there were 4 in the family and number 5 on the way and moved to a suburb called Porirua 12 miles outside Wellington. A suburb that was to achieve a certain notoriety in later years with its predominately Island community. The government in those days (1960) in its infinite wisdom set about providing accommodations for the workforce employed in and around Wellington. As real estate was and still is a bit of a premium in Wellington, they built state owned housing estates in places like Porirua in a radius of about 10-20 miles out of Wellington. These houses gave young families on relatively low incomes ideal low rental accommodations. There was little or no television in those days, frequent power cuts, the bars closed at 6:00 p.m., contraception was for promiscuous women and 'real blokes' never used condoms or didn't know what they were, so in the space of just 6 houses including us, or 75 yards, there were 52 children. That was only 6 houses, there were approximately 120 houses on our street and probably 200 streets in Porirua. Now I'm not saying that every family had at least 7 children but there was an awful lot that did. With both parents working, which is true in most cases, that left a lot of responsibility on the oldest in each family, especially the girls. It was in this environment that I grew up. During my years at school, I suppose I led a normal life, but as I got older events took a turn for the worse and I ran afoul of the law, but once again that was nothing out of the ordinary in a place like Porirua. After some time of rebellion and misbehaviour at school and on the streets I was placed in correctional institutions from the age of 12 to 15. When I look back on those unlawful times I feel that I was fortunate that I went off the track when I was young and got kicked in the butt early. Some of my partners in crime are still offending and have been in and out of institutions ever since.

As I got older I think I developed a small prejudice against Samoans, probably as a result of being on the receiving end of prejudice and a couple of hidings dished out at some of the bars and social functions I frequented. A couple of events in my life turned me right around. The first was when I got married. My mother-in-law, a palagi (European), catered for occasions such as these, and quite rightly wanted to cater for ner own daughter's wedding, but there is a slight difference between palagi catering and Samoan catering. Nearly every morsel in a palagi function is accounted for or calculated, an Island function on the other nand could best be described as saturation catering donated by the aiga (extended family). I recall the dilemma over the purchase of a pig, whether it should be a whole pig or a half. As it turned out we got a whole pig but so did someone else, so we ended up with two pigs as well as the customary dishes associated with these occasions. The meal was a feast to remember. The problem occurred when, as people began to leave, they just slipped into the kitchen and helped themselves to the left over food, once again just Island custom, but I had neglected to warn my mother-in-law who thougnt people were stealing the food. I am happy to say it all turned out okay in the end, and we have a little chuckle when we recall that happy day. Just having my relations (aiga) around me on my wedding day filled me with a warm glow and, yes, I was proud to be a Samoan. I am now a member of the New Zealand Army. I am in the Corps of Royal New Zealand Engineers where I have been employed in mine warfare, bridging, demolitions and a carpentry instructor to young apprentices. I am at present in Wellington at Army Headquarters, where I look after the New Zealand Army Construction Programme. I will be going to the Sinai as part of the Training Advisory Team in midApril to mid-October, so I wonder if I will be the first Samoan to serve in the Sinai. Probably not as there is an American Battalion there and probably other Samoans. That would be great.

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Detective Tafa Misiotele: Detective. Wellington, New Zealand I was born in 1946 in the village of Magiagi, Upolu to To'osavili Isa'ako of Iva, Savai'i, and Keiti Falana'ipupu of Magiagi, Upolu. One of 6 boys in a family of 121 attended the Pastor's and village schools until I aualified for Samoa College. After completing the Upper 5th Form in 1966, I joined the police force. In 19711 travelled to New Zealand where I attended the New Zealand Police Academy. Law enforcement has occupied my entire adult life. From 1974- 761 worked as an undercover agent which took me to all parts of the country and gave me a solid foundation for police work. In 19771 began a 2-year strenuous and intensive detective course which qualified me as a full fledged detective. As a detective one of my greatest finds was my wife Anna Mafuli of Sale'imoa, Upolu. We have a 5 year old son, Julius Maxwell. I consider myself a true blue Samoan and am very proud of it. Since coming to New Zealand I've managed to get home to Samoa every 2 years. Presently I'm conducting courses at the Royal New Zealand Police College on Samoan language and culture.

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Kelly Alo'iai: Blue Collar Worker. Paremata, New Zealand

Ned Eric Ripley Q.S.M., J.P.: Lecturer in Pacific Cultures. Dunedin, New Zealand

Rex John Ahdar: Lecturer in Law. Dunedin, New Zealand

I was born in 1955 to Mata'afa Setu Alo'iai of Vailoa, Savai'i and lusetina Lama of the same village. In the late 50's, my dad emigrated to New Zealand, established himself at the Forest Products mill, rented a company house and settled with mum in Tokoroa. My eldest brother Lemo and I stayed in Samoa and were raised by our maternal grandparents, Toluono Lama of Vailoa and Matalena lele of Leuva'a Upolu. In the early 60's my parents decided that things were OK in New Zealand. They bought a house ana sent for us. Upon arrival, I found that there were 3 younger children in our family, Tise, Mika, and Matalena. My brothers Falaniko, Visesio, and Sefelino, were yet to be born. New Zealand was a different environment from what I imagined it to be. The climate was cold and the houses were all enclosed compared to our thatched roof open homes in Samoa. A lot of Samoans got very homesick, but after a while, we settled in. I spent all my schooling days in Tokoroa but never had any ambition about what to do after it was over. I sat the School Certificate twice and failed both times. So, I applied for a trade. The Maori Island Affairs had a training program which brought me to Wellington. While there, I became independent and assumed a Western style of life. Tokoroa had too much Samoan custom. At that time I couldn't handle it and I wanted to disappear. I broke all ties with my family and trained as a fitter with the Railways. Seven years later I moved on to the Ford Motor Co. but there were so many strikes I left after a year. I was unemployed for a couple of months until a good job with Griffins and Sons came along. I'm still here and enjoy my work very much. A friend introduced me to her best friend, a European girl by the name of Sally Marshall whom I later fell very much in love with. Even though our backgrounds were very different, sne felt the same way about me. Somehow we managed to blend the two together, and after a year of courting, we were married. We've been blessed with a lovely daughter Alex, who means everything to us. Through hard work and careful saving we have built ourselves a home. I'm older now and better able to handle the strains that can result from practising our culture in a European environment. Two years ago my younger brother round me and so our family is back in touch. It s really good. Author's Note: In a newspaper interview in New Zealand I was asked if this book was only about famous Samoans. My reply was no it also included the little people with big hearts. Kelly is one of the hardest working men I know, at times putting in a 12 hour day ana working on weekends to save money for a new house. When I left for the South Island he insisted that I call collect every night so that he would know that I was OK, and when I got back to Wellington, North Island, he was there to meet the boat. The next day, Saturday, he helped with some photography. We didn't finish until evening and I still had a 6 hour drive to my next stop. He wouldn't hear of my going alone and insisted on driving, spent the night and caught the 6 a.m. bus back to Wellington the next day.

I was born in Leone, Tutuila, on January 23,1933. My father was llaoa Eric Vaiao Ripley, a matai and a church deacon. He was a part of a family well-known as architects and builders. They learned the trade by experience ana perseverence in service both to the Government and to the Church. He died in 1951 at the age of 45 when I was 18. My mother Masele (nee Timoteo) has been a widow ever since. Due to her loving care, support, encouragement and prayers, I am what I am today. My mother lives in Utumea, a beautiful sandy spot on the Ripley Estate along the western coastline from Leone Bay. It was here that I grew up. My childhood gave me a strong sense of belonging to the aiga (family) and an appreciation for the comfort and support of the au-aiga (extended family). I was born of Christian principles and values. I began my formal education at Leone when I was 6 during the outbreak of the Second World War. I still vividly remember the infiltration of our tiny island by the United States Marine Corps, the roaring of heavy military tanks, fighter bombers practising and the sound of numerous sirens. Gradually, life in our simple and peaceful society was infested by the materialism of a Western nation. At the age of 10, it became very clear in my mind that despite the evil of war and the political desire for power among the super nations of the World, God has already laid down His Divine Strategy for redeeming humanity. In 19481 graduated from the Leone Junior High School and attended the High School at Utulei and in 1951,1 entered Leulumoega Fou High School at Malua, Upolu, in preparation for theological training. At 18,1 felt constrained by a divine call to be part of God's work. I graduated in 1954 with distinction in English and Dux or the School (first in my class). The next year I taught at Leulumoega Fou High School, and in 1956 gained a Church scholarship to train for the ministry at the Congregational Churches Theological College, Auckland, New Zealand. After ordination, I was inducted in 1966 to the Pastorate of the Otara Pacific Islanders Church, South Auckland, New Zealand. I was the first resident minister for the P.I.C. in Otara and established a Parish for Cook Islanders, Niueans, Samoans and New Zealand-born Pacific Islanders. I served there for 15 years and developed skills in administration, counselling, budgeting, and liaison with Government agencies, local colleges and schools. In 19801 was appointed Justice of the Peace and later awarded the Queen's Service Medal for services to the community and work with Pacific Islanders in New Zealand. I lived in Otara in 1981 when the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church appointed me Dean of Maori and Polynesian Studies at the Theological Hall, Knox College. This was the first time a Polynesian had held such a position in New Zealand. During my time in Dunedin, I studied part-time for a degree and in 1985 graduated witn a Bachelor of Theology from Otago University and two years later I was made Honorary Lecturer. During the past 21 years as a minister, I have served on many National Committees. My involvement in these areas of services has taught me a lot and enabled me to grow. I draw on this knowledge and experience for the teaching which I presently do in the Faculty of Theology, University of Otago as Lecturer in Maori and Polynesian Studies, Samoan Language and Culture, the Ministry in a Multi-Cultural Society, and Missiology. My wife Alice Taiupu (nee Mamoe) and our children, Patupatu, Eric, Robert, Roberta, Laloifi and Leone are my great and enthusiastic supporters and inspirations. By the grace of God and service to humanity and in loving memories of my forebearers, I will continue to remain a faithful Samoan serving God and His purpose in this part of His Kingdom.

I was born in Dunedin on the 26th of February, 1961 to John Ahdar of Fugalei, Upolu and June Morrison of New Zealand. My father's parents were from Salelo'loga, Savai'i and Manono. To describe one's reasons for living is not a straight forward exercise. But without some such rationale life becomes mere existence. Looking back over my short life I think the greater part of it has been devoted to pleasing someone. That someone would be my parents and especially my father. He always had strong ambitions for me and at an early age instilled in me the desire or rather necessity to achieve and attain. It wasn't just to "try hard" or "do well" but to be "the best", the "top of the class", "first". I suppose in that sense I am a typical son of an immigrant. I was to fully utilize all the advantages which my father never had. I was to accomplish those aspirations which he had for himself but which remained unfulfilled due to his (relatively) disadvantaged background. There is, I think, nothing morally wrong in this provided such vicarious ambition is tempered with compassion. In other words, tne pursuit of excellence should accommodate the wishes of the individual. If I wanted to be a brick layer instead of a lawyer then I hope such a desire would have been respected. I am sure it would have been. As it transpired I developed my own desire to pursue the law. One reaches a certain point at which exhortation from others can only motivate you so far. Beyond that you must have the desire independently. Tnis is not to disparage encouragement but rather to recognize its limits. At a point some 4 or 5 years ago my predominant motivation altered. Instead of wanting to please my father (solely) I desire now to please my Heavenly Father, first and foremost. Some time ago I became a committed Christian. I believe that God has a particular purpose for each individual. Discovering that purpose can take some time. I do not think I have found it as yet. Meanwhile I am continuing in my present vocation as a lecturer in law at the University of Otago, New Zealand. I took this position in 1985 when I was 24 years old. As for the future? In the immediate short term (ie next 2-3 years) I shall continue as a lecturer concentrating on research, writing and teaching in commercial law, consumer protection, and competition law. I would still like to study more — a Ph.D. in law at an overseas university, perhaps London or Stanford. I hope to get married in the next year or two. But rinding the right person (however defined) has so far proved elusive (Perhaps my upcoming trip to Samoa will clarify matters?). I have a great desire to discover my Samoan roots. I want to learn the language — this seems indispensable. I would like to help and further my people. In the back of my mind is the thought that one day I might live in Samoa. Apart from my academic history, which has been a successful one, my life has been marred (and scarred!) by ill nealth. At an early age (11) I developed leg/ hip trouble which landed me in tne hospital several times. At 15 the doctors diagnosed that I was suffering from "ankylosing spondylitis". This is an uncommon (though not rare) form of arthritis which affects the spine and the larger joints (hips and shoulders) causing considerable pain, stiffness and loss of movement. Unfortunately I have a severe dose of it. The gory details are somewhat tedious, I have had both hips replaced, one of them twice and I just recently recovered from my second broken leg. Suffice it to say it has been the bane of my life and I have nad to curtail many activities I love (e.g. sports — I won our Primary School tennis cup).

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Page 40 Left One learns to cope with such setbacks though naturally on occasions I become depressed ana lapse into self pity. But if you intend to do anything with your life you learn to look beyond your problems and to count your blessings. Author's Note: Rex found the right person on his trip to Samoa. He and Elisapeta Tupuola were married on the 29th of December 1987.

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Talitama A M Leota: Shepherd. Invercargill, New Zealand I was born in Nofoali'i in Upolu on 1 August, 1947. My mother, Tau Tanuvasa is from there. My father, Aivi Leota comes from Solosolo. I have 4 brothers and 1 sister. We all lived together in my mother's family. I attended Nofoali'i Primary School and then went onto Aana District High School for 3 years. After leaving school I was a planter working on our family land every day for 6 days of the week. I planted taro, ta'amu, banana and pineapple and raised cnicken and pigs. While I was working in my plantation, I always hoped for a good future. When I got the opportunity to come to New Zealand, I was sad because I knew I'd miss all my friends plus the Samoan customs, but I was also pleased because I knew I could find a better future here. In New Zealand the way of life is very different, everything depends on money. The main thing is to get a good job in order to support tne family. I'm married to a Kiwi girl and we've 4 daughters ana 1 son. We've settled at the bottom of the South Island in Invercargill. I work very hard to keep up my family. On the farm, I'm busy with haymaking, milking the cows, shearing the sheep, ploughing for crops, planting and harvesting potatoes and other vegetables besides fencing, planting trees, ditching, e t c . . . In summer I plough an old grass paddock to plant turnips in order to feed the animals in winter. It s cold here in winter and the grass won't grow, so we grow hay in the summer and feed it to the animals witn the turnips in the winter. In late winter and early spring, the sheep have their lambs. Late spring is shearing time. Farming in New Zealand is hard work. Every day is a long day. Although I miss home, right now I need to stay in New Zealand for my children. But one day, I hope to retire to Samoa. In tne meantime, I listen to my Samoan tapes and like playing suipi (casino). SAMOA IS THE BEST!

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Larney Tupu: Actor. Sydney, Australia

Dr Meleisea: Physician/Acupuncture. Tasmania, Australia

I was born in New Zealand, the son of Tuioti Lani Tupu, a chief of Falelima, Savaii, and Beryl June Thompson of Otahuhu, New Zealand. The first piece of theatre I ever saw was Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs when I was 5 years old. I was totally transfixed by the wicked witch and the poison apple. The second piece of theatre I saw was a film called the 'Phantom of the Opera'. My aunt took me one afternoon and I spent the whole movie peeking between tne seats scared as hell. The third piece of 'theatre' I created one hot sunny afternoon was a game of cowboys and Indians in which I took a piece of wood, tied potato sacking to it, lit it, and nearly managed to burn down the next door section. I got whacked in the head by a benevolent uncle and stopped for a while. In that while', which lasted till I was 13,1 saw nearly every movie I could on Saturday afternoons come rain or shine. The world of flashing pictures on the screen captivated me. When I was 131 joined our local church group called Drama Cristi in Wellington and played a shepherd in the Christmas Nativity. At that stage it wasn't so much a burning desire to become an actor, but a great way of getting out of homework, the dishes, and a terrific way of meeting girls. Wnen I was 21,1 decided to do something about this "hobby' which had come to dominate my life. I left Teacher's Training College, a secure world and auditioned for the New Zealand Drama School. I ve never looked back. I worked extremely hard for the next few years in Auckland, in 2 major Theatre Companies, and in television in Wellington. I learned as much as I could about theatre and I learned about the way of the actor and I'm still learning! It is an amazing journey that I have undertaken because of a heartfelt desire. Apart from painting or music, it is the only work I know which totally fulfills me. One word which could explain would be the word passion. It is my life's passion. I have no idea where it will lead me. There have been many difficult and painful points along the way to being an actor but I have discovered that it is no different in other professions. All I want to do is my best and I am travelling the world searching for it. I have met many wonderful and extraordinary people (including my wife who was "my nurse" in a television series 'Country G.P.'; I played the lead for several years) I thank them all for the many great times we've had and will continue to have. I have great support from my family and close friends and it makes the journey easier knowing that. I do not only think of myself as a 'Samoan' actor but as an actor with Samoan and New Zealand blood who wants to perfect his craft. In a world which casts according to 'type', it would be very easy to be intimidated and inhibited by such limitations,,, ratner I take the viewpoint of a great French singer who is 5 foot nothing. He used to feel hard done by in the world because he wasn't 6 foot tall. philosophy was v simple. When he walked into rooms, he would literally stoop Hiss philosophy ider the doorway to give the impression of his "great height"! This approach to life appeals to me very much. I have played German, French, Italian, Greek, Indian, Jewish, Maori and countless English and American roles without applying one piece of makeup! I haven't played a Samoan yet but perhaps one day! My aim is to travel internationally as actor. Until then, who knows. Right now I'm in Australia giving it a go. In Australia that's the catch phrase "Give it a go." In New Zealand it's called "Nothing ventured, nothing gained." I'm giving it my all wherever I am.

At time of publication, autobiography had not been received.

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Dr. Oskar Gunther Stunzner: Rancher, Veterinarian. Bajool, Queensland, Australia My story is very light on the grandparents. My grandfather Stunzner came out from Germany as an Architect/Engineer. He was responsible for building the old Casino hotel, the present Court House, the girded Solosolo bridge (gone) and the existing Tuaetu Bridge. Grandfather William Jamieson was a boat builder. My Samoan ancestory can be traced to the Fulu family of Luatuanuu and the Leaega family from Lotofaga. I was born in Apia, Upolu on 2nd May, 1938, the fourth child in a family of 5 boys and 1 girl. My early years coincided with World War II. With few exceptions, German and Samoan-German men were interned by the New Zealand administration on Sommes Island in Wellington Harbour. We younger members of the family thus had no recollection of our father as I was only 2 years old when he left ana 7 when he returned in 1946. The war created a hatred towards anyone of German ancestry by former friends which puzzled me as a child. This was particularly noticeable among the New Zealanders many of whom were quite open with their hostility. My mother bore the brunt of this. One day a New Zealand teacher placed my brother in front of the class as an example of a nasty German. This behaviour was in contrast with the U.S. forces who were considerate and courteous. My father returned to Samoa in 1946 to find that we had lost our plantation at Tapatapao, and efforts to regain it were useless. As he was unemployed, he and my mother took to making biscuits which they sold to small shops around Apia. We eventually moved to Lotofaga to manage a trading station and to develop a cattle and coconut farm for the late Fonoti Brown. There were no roads to Lotofaga except tracks through the jungle to Falefa or Falealili. We went by boat, with me violently seasick for most of the voyage. Lotofaga was paradise. The sea was a hop, skip, and a jump away, and the "Lisi" plantation only an hour's walk from home. Most of my free time was spent at the plantation where my dog and I became quite proficient at running down wild fowl and ve'a. I came to know every nook and cranny of the fabulous rainforest surrounding our home. The nearest medical centre to Lotofaga was at Poutasi, Falealili. To get there one went by row boat or walked, either route took a whole day. Communication in Samoa in the 1940s was by Post Office Messengers. In the late 1940s the government installed receiver sets in every village. The first evening saw the wnole village assembled at the fale tele to listen to the very first broadcast of Radio 2AP to Lotofaga. Every night we children rushed to listen to the voice coming out of the box. We had never experienced anything like it.

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Page 45 Right The Lotofaga chapter came to an end when we returned to Apia. For me Apia was hard to take after the freedom of the village. Here I was, an eleven year old in the primers at Leifiifi. School was a struggle. However, at Leifiifi Intermediate I struck Dick Bishop who had just arrived in Samoa. What a teacher he turned out to be. He had a great influence on my future education both in the classroom and out of it. He encouraged student participation in learning, clear thinking and most important, he stimulated our imagination. I salute him. Horse racing was a passion we children all enjoyed. We had opportunities to visit all the established stables with our father when he called on ailing horses. With persistent pressure from the children, our parents finally acquired a chestnut filly for us. She was a beauty, though she only stooa knee high to a grasshopper. With pride we started a training program. We entered her in the schoolboy race; no saddles required. Our horse was off, and held her own for most of the race, only to fade away at the finish. With wounded pride and disappointment we arrived home to tell mother, without qualification that the horse ran second. Soon after, a racing acquaintance arrived and also inquired about the horse. Mother, acting on our information, told him it ran second. On hearing this, my elder brother ran in and whispered that the horse did not run second from the front, but second from the back. Nevertheless, this experience with horses proved valuable when in later years I was in private veterinarian practice in Australia. As I was on the border line to make the age limit to enter Samoa College, I was moved to Form 2, thereby skipping Form 1. Had this not taken place I would have been denied a secondary education. When in 1959 the results of the New Zealand Certificate came out, all but two of the class passed with high marks and most won bursaries (scholarships) for further studies. I was thrilled to receive the highest marks in Samoa that year. Waitaki Boys High School in Oamaru, was where I prepared for my New Zealand University Entrance. At Waitaki; I distinguished myself in rugby being a member of the 1st XV for the two years, my last as vice-captain of the team. My studies were completed in 1961 when I passed the necessary examinations to enter university. Acquiring University Entrance was a challenge achieved. In an earlier interview with tne head of the Department of Island Education the gentleman informed me that my aspiration to become a veterinarian was overly ambitious. "Better men than you have fallen by the wayside" were his words. He suggested that I would be better off working in the Massey College piggery to gain practical experience. This advice angered me so much I was determined to become a veterinarian and make him eat his words. On winning an Australian International Award bursary for veterinary medicine, I commenced the 5-year course at the University of Queensland. Life at University was a joy except for the immediate worries or meeting assignment deadlines, completing research projects and passing examinations. It was during a students social that I met my future wife Judith. We were married in August 1965, my fourth year. The following year I graduated. My vow to make the gentleman in Wellington eat his words haa been fulfilled. We returned to Samoa in March 1967.1 was given the title of Veterinary Authority. An office was made for me in the animal room, at the South Pacific College of Tropical Agriculture. Thus the first Samoan veterinarian shared an office with laboratory rats, mice and guinea pigs. I soon found myself lecturing in animal science and animal husbandry at Afatua. My next move was to establish a veterinary service to cater for the needs of farmers and the public. A fully equipped veterinary clinic and diagnostic laboratory was built at Alafua College. Laboratory tecnnicians were recruited and trained at the National Hospital at Moto'otua. Diseases present in Samoa were

identified. Tuberculosis in swine and cattle herds was extremely prevalent with a corresponding prevalence in the human population. To eradicate this scourge a program was implemented. Today tuberculosis in cattle and swine is almost non-existent. Being a veterinary in Samoa was both satisfying and frustrating, the latter due to knowing that once I turned my back farmers would return to their old practices. Satisfaction resulted from the generosity of the people. One particular incident that will forever give me fond memories occurred during a fowl cholera outbreak. A village farmer turned up with dead and dying pullets, which I diagnosed as having fowl cholera. Arrangements were made for him to coop all his fowls for our team to vaccinate the following day. We duly arrived but found no fowls cooped. After a hot morning pursuing chickens through cocoa, taro and banana patches, we finlly had the job done and returned home. Late that afternoon a small boy arrived on horseback with a gift, a basket of coconuts. Knowing he had ridden miles, this gesture meant more to me than if I had been paid in cash. I returned to Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1970 and joined a three man private practice. Servicing the far flung reaches involved chartering planes, and often necessitated overnight stays on tne properties visited. I thoroughly enjoyed the work but the long hours ana absences from home were hard on my wife and children. Thus an invitation by WSTEC (Western Samoa Trust Estates) in May 1973, for me to be their veterinarian, was eagerly accepted. My first task was to train the farm managers in basic management and animal husbandry skills. Labour saving facilities were installed including calf branding cradles, and slide gates for crushes to replace gravity gates. Following WSTEC I was appointed as lecturer to Alafua College in Animal Production. After Alafua was upgraded to university status as the Faculty of Agriculture of the University of tne South Pacific. I was appointed Senior Lecturer on Animal Production. Drafting the curriculum allowed me to structure a course that was relevant to the needs of the region. My family and I returned to Queensland, Australia, in the middle of 1977 to manage "Prior Park" on the death of my wife's father. Today, we own this beautiful 6904 hectare (17,000 acres) property, carrying 3000 head of cattle. On request from the University of Queensland Veterinary School, we accept students from that institute to carry out their required work experience on "Prior Park". What would probably be difficult for those in Samoa to appreciate is that "Prior Park", almost equivalent in size of WSTEC, is operated by Judith, the children when home, myself, and one full time employee. Mechanization, use of laneways and holding paddocks, has reduced the need for labour. Use is made of outside contractors for weed control and fencing. A helicopter can spray in one day what would take ages by tractor. We also experimented with helicopter mustering of cattle. Distance from educational facilities has necessitated the sending of our three children to an independent boarding school. My children Phillippa (born in Rockhampton), Gordon (born in Samoa), and Inga Penina (born in Rockhampton), should learn through this autobiography of my early struggle for an education, which is freely available to them. I have maintained my links with Samoa. In 19781 accepted their request to select cattle for a shipment from Australia to Samoa. Many people were involved in my march through time to achieve my goals. Most credit goes to my mother and my wife Judith.

Angie Wetzell: Hotel Supervisor. Ayers Rock, The Northern Territory, Australia So long New Zealand, Talofa Samoa! The year is 1972.1 was 10 when we first moved to the shores of paradise and a town called Apia, on Upolu, a tiny island in the Pacific Ocean. I suppose being so young made the transition of moving from a modern city to an island so easy. Samoa is a place where time has little or no essence, where we wear lengths of material around our lower half, known as a "lavalava" (sarong), where Mum, Dad, Aunts, Uncles and cousins all cram into the back of a pickup on their way to the town market. And where in the early hours on a Sunday morning we awaken to a sky filled with the rising smoke from the "umu" (ground oven). I attended the local primary school, Apia Primary, and later did my Intermediate years at Leifiri. For tne endurance of my nigh school years I returned to New Zealand. I did not go to a boarding school as is common with part European families, rather I livecfwith my Aunt and Uncle. Each Christmas I returned to Samoa and with every passing year I noticed subtle changes in my family. I realized, too late, that I had missed out on a precious experience not growing up with my family in Samoa. With 4 years of high school behind me I was not only ready but eager to return home. I slid right into the family business of manufacturing building materials and concrete products. Aside from doing clerical work, I learned to drive a forklift, dump trucks, and, oh yes, a front end loader. I was something of a torn boy. Masculine traits seem to rub off on you if you have 3 brothers as I do. However bricks and trucks were not my cup of tea. I was hungry for adventure. I needed to satisfy my curiosity about the rest of the world. Germany here I come! It was 1979 and I was never so frightened in my life. But it was that exact feeling, that made me feel excited. A challenge was being offered, to live in a foreign country. Eighteen months later I was pleased I had lasted and were it not for such a yearning of the heart to return to my family I might still be in Germany today. In 19811 returned home for 2 years before going to Auckland, New Zealand. Sheraton was opening a new hotel. It was there that I consider I got my first real job, independent or any help from my family. I took to the hotel industry and decided to pursue a career in it as far as I could go. In September 19841 moved to central Australia in the Northern Territory. This time it was the Sheraton Ayers Rock Hotel. The extraordinarily modern resort with photovoltaic panels, roof sails to catch the breeze and provide shade, an olympic-sized pool, efc. is located 26 kms from the world's largest monolith, Ayers Rock and some 480 kms from the nearest town. Although we had a population of 500 permanent residents, beyond the hotel a sense of primitiveness prevailed. Not only was radio non existent but we only had one T.V. channel, no boutiques, only one bank, a supermarket, the local tavern and a takeaway shop. That was and is the extent of town. But all this made for a closer knit community. You appreciated and made more use of your surroundings. It will be a few years yet before Yulara (Aboriginal for Place of the Howling Dingo) will feel the pressures of city life, traffic congestion and the like. I am grateful for having experienced life in such a frontier town. There are so many beautiful memories! I recently moved to the Sheraton Mirage Gold Coast Hotel, due to open September 1987. It is a strange feeling to now adjust to city life after the serene surroundings of the Rock. Now instead of a vast red desert with its wildlife of

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Page 47 Right frilled-necked lizards, thorny devils and dingos, I have the blue ocean, the sound of traffic, and thousands of people to contend with. The world is a strange but wonderful place. I have no immediate plans to return to Samoa but who knows, Sheraton may one day decide to build on our beautiful shores. This Samoan intends to go a long way!

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Rev. Sione Eli: Pastor. Albany, Western Australia I was born in Tufutafoe, a remote village in Savai'i, on the 12th of February, 1940. My father Potifara came from a nearby village of Neiafu and he and my mother Talaolupelele Auva'a were separated before I was born. At the age of ten, one of my mother's cousins, Rev. Pa'u Eli and his wife Tavau, took me to Ti'avea, Upolu, where he was the Methodist pastor. They became my parents. And although they both died several years ago, I am still under their shadow. It was their great love and care that brought me to this stage of my life. My education depended on where their ministry took us. In 1952 when my father was appointed to Piula Theological College, I attended Lufilufi Primary Scnool, and later Avele College. I left Avele in 1958 but was not sure which way to go. After long and thoughtful consideration, I decided to enter the Ministry. There was no persuasion or strained influence from my parents. It was purely a living call that had been burning within me for several years. My parents were surprised and delighted when I shared my decision witn them. I entered Piula Theological College, the last year my father taught there. In those days, theological education lasted 6 years. I stayed on for a further 4 years to complete a Correspondence Course with the Melbourne College of Divinity, Australia. I then went overseas for further studies in Queensland, Australia for another 3 years. In February 1972,1 began my ministry as a Christian Education consultant in American Samoa, after which I returned to the main office at Matafele. In March 19731 was appointed to look after the Parish of Salua, Manono, then back to Matafele as director of Christian Education. In December of that year I married Apoua-i-mafafa, the daughter of Rev. Siaosi and Silafa'i Siutaia, who were ministers of the Congregational Church in Satapuala. We were ordained in 1975 and I was appointed to establish a Department of Evangelism. In April 1978, we left for the Lufilufi Parish. It was our first Parish experience as husband and wife, and as a family of three. Our daughter Mana-ole-Evagelia enjoyed those years at Lufilufi and her name marks the year of our appointment as Director of Evangelism and our ordination. In 1981 we were appointed to work under the Uniting Church in Western Australia. We began in January 1982 at the Central Avon Parish, in the wheatbelt. There are 6 congregations witn another 3 preaching places. For 4 years (1982-85) we felt the joy of being ministers of the Word in another culture. The Uniting Church is made up of denominations — Methodist, Congregational and Presbyterian. It is a tremendous experience to be a part of

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such an inclusive ministry. These great denominations have put aside their past history, their individual viewpoints and special interests and joined together to create a wider relationship in this nation — continent, Australia. After our furlough in December 1985 - February 1986, we returned to Western Australia. This time to the Parish of Denmark in the southwestern part of the State. We will be here for another 4 years. There are many challenges as our Parish is made up of 3 congregations — Bornholm, Denmark and Walpole. The farthest is some 67 kilometers away. Being Uniting Church Ministers, we feel that life can have a wider outlook, be happier, and provide broader views. This enables us to learn more about the world around us and the needs at hand. These denominations have made a great commitment to God and to one another. It requires loyalty and honesty. At times there are problems but it is certain that any new venture has advantages and disadvantages. This is truly the way to learn about life. It will be a blessed time when all small and peaceful islands such as Samoa, are able to see such a vision and unite as members of one family. I have no doubt that these years of serving in the Uniting Church in Australia will always be a great highlight in our life ministries. Sharing with the white communities these last few years nas been tremendously uplifting for my family. We are hopeful that when we return to Samoa one day, we can adapt some of tnese experiences to our home situation and environment. I am uplifted with the great ministries of loving, caring and support that my wife and daughter have supplied and shared with me. They contribute so much to our ministry in Australia. I am thankful to Cod for them and I consider myself a lucky man, husband, father, and Samoan.

Simon Apelu Sanchez: Politician. Agana, Guam I'm the oldest of 7 children, the product of a marriage between a Chamorro from the island of Guam and a Samoan from Leone in Tutuila. My dad, Dr. Pedro C. Sanchez, first met my mom, Florida Galea'i in 1953 when ne worked for the Samoan school system. They first noticed each other during a gathering for the arrival of a cruise ship in Pago Harbor. In those days, everyone came out when a ship arrived. I was born in 1956, the first of 3 kids to be born on Guam. From 1961 to 1970, our family travelled extensively. We added a sister in the Virgin Islands, a sister in the Philippines, a brother in Panama and a sister in Washington, D.C. By 1970, we returned to Guam. During this time, we often travelled to Samoa to meet the aiga, (extended family). My earliest sense of Samoa is also my most enduring one. Despite being totally different islands, both Chamorro and Samoan culture center around the extended family. As I grew up, my mom's brother came to live with us. He graduated from the College of Guam. Later 2 cousins and an uncle from Samoa lived and travelled with the family, helping mom to raise us. My dad never questioned the presence of mom's aiga in our family. It's also common practice on Guam for families to raise their relatives. My Samoan cousins became my "adopted" brothers and sisters. So we were always aware of our Samoan heritage. Like good Samoans, we "took it with us". Luckily for me, I was able to learn more about Samoa during my high school summers, 3 of which were spent in Samoa. I worked for the family business, primarily as a tour guide. I was always impressed by the pervasiveness of the Samoan culture, especially when compared to the more westernized society on Guam. Unlike Guam where the native Chamorro language is struggling to survive, the Samoan language thrives. The "matai" system, the communal nature of the family economy, and the songs and dances of Samoa are similar to what was found on Guam, today these customs and social structures have been largely replaced or Westernized. After high school, I went to Stanford University and graduated with a degree in History. But my hobby during those years was drama, and I directed 5 broadway musicals while going to school. I wonder whether all that Samoan singing and dancing in my blood had anything to do with it? After Stanford, I attended Harvard University for my Master's degree in economic planning. I knew I was going back to Guam and that Guam's economic growth potential was great. I came back to Guam and worked for the Economic Development Authority for one year. I was involved in projects involving housing bonds, industrial park development and tourism expansion. But after one year, I decided to test my entrepreneurial ambitions. I worked as business consultant, eventually getting involved in the territorial lottery, a failed attempt to start a cable TV station, some real estate deals and a radio station. I served 4 years on the board of the Guam Chamber of Commerce, including one year as Vice-Chairman. I love the private sector. For years, Guam's governmental sector dominated the economy. I wanted to prove to myself and eventually to have a successful career. Being an entrepreneur has its obvious risks, but tne potential for economic independence is worth it. I'm still part owner of a successful AM-FM radio station, and I still do private consulting. But besides business, I have come to love politics. In 1982,1 was involved in a Congressional campaign against a long term incumbent. We lost, but for the first time it was a close election. Two years later, we supported the same [ >

candidate and we won. It was by less than 300 votes but we won. For the first time I felt that I was coming of age on Guam, that I could make a difference in the direction of my island. Since then, I have stayed involved in politics, although not as a candidate. Last year, 1987, my life went through some significant change. My dad had just won his first term as a Senator. He became the Vice-Chairman of the Guam political status commission which is known as the Commission on SelfDetermination. For years, Guam has been trying to change and improve its political status. Guam is now trying to become a U.S. Commonwealth. But during the last 10 years, there has also been an emergence of the question of indigenous political rights for the native Chamorro people of Guam. There is a growing desire by many native Guamanians to insure that the Chamorros will have the ultimate say in what final political status will be appropriate for Guam. In May of last year, my dad asked me to leave my private work and serve as the Executive Director of the political status Commission. The chance to work with my dad in such a unique job involving the future political relationship of Guam and the United States was too much to turn down. I took the job. I was tasked with developing two education campaigns to provide the public with information on a draft Commonwealth Act to be submitted to Congress for consideration. A 6 week campaign involved bi-lingual media presentations, village meetings and televised debates. On August 7,1987 10 of the 12 articles were passed. One week later, dad died in Honolulu. During the middle of the campaign, he was medially evacuated to Hawaii. The Sanchezes of Guam were reunited with the Galea'is of Tutuila. During those 6 weeks of dad's illness, mom's brothers and sisters came to be with my parents. One sister stayed the entire 6 weeks. Our "adopted" brother and sister came. Dad's brothers and sisters came from Guam and they met our Samoan family. Dad's last days served as a reunion of our families. After dad died, mom ran to fill his unexpired term. I had to conduct a second education campaign on the two articles that failed in August and which were rewritten. I managed mom's campaign as well. On November 7, voters passed the remaining two articles. Mom lost the election. In a month I'll travel to Washington with the Commission to present Guam's draft Commonwealth Act to Congress. Our ties to Samoa remain strong. I was asked, "what does it mean to be Samoan?" My answer: The same thing that it means to be a Chamorro: faith in God, love of family and obligation to community. We thank God for all his blessings that have been given to a family that began over 30 years ago, on the docks of Pago Pago.

Asia Philippines Japan Korea Peoples Republic of China Hong Kong Indonesia Singapore Sri Lanka Bhutan India Kuwait

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Maligi Agatonu Nua: Chief Warrant Officer 4. Subic Bay, Philippines I was born in the village of Leloaloa, Tutuila, on March 14,1941. My parents are Aeatonu Nua and Faailoatuimanu'a Fa'amausili, both from the village of Si'ufaga, Ta u, Manu'a. My father passed away when I was 3 years old, and my mother remarried Tato Letuli, of Vaitogi village, Tutuila. I grew up in Vaitogi and graduated from Le'ala Marist Brothers' Junior High School in 1958, ana from tne high school at Utulei in 1962. After graduation I decided to further my education and left for Honolulu, Hawaii. Because of a lack of finances, I was unable to fulfill my desire to attend the University of Hawaii, but saw a good opportunity in tne Navy and joined. I'm very glad that I made that decision. The Navy has given me everything I could have hoped for. I'm very proud of my achievements in the service, I became a naval officer. I enlisted as a Seaman Recruit and worked my way up through the ranks to become a Chief Warrant Officer. When I first joined the Navy I was assigned the Captain's Yeoman on board the Light Guided Missile Cruiser, USS TOPEKA, Long Beach, California. Over the next 20 years, I had duty assignments in Korea, Japan, and the Philippines, as well as in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Washington, D.C., on the Staff of the Commander in Chief U.S. Pacific Fleet, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on the Staff of the Commanding Officer of the aircraft carrier USS ENTERPRISE, and on the Staff of the Commanding Officer of U.S. Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Five at Port Hueneme, California. I was selected by the Navy to attend a fulltime paid 2 year college at San Diego City College and Southwestern College, Cnula Vista, California. I continued my course work during my off work hours at the University of Hawaii and California State University, completing my degree in Business Administration. I married a lovely lady, the former Mine Epenesa Taito of Faganeanea and Amanave, Tutuila. We nave 2 children, Maryland Lei Nua, a third-year student at Loma Linda University, California, and Maligi Jr., a second-year student at California State University, Sacramento. I plan to retire in tne near future and am looking forward to the day when I can go back to Samoa and serve my community with the many good experiences I've gained from my naval career.

Author's Note: Photo of Simon was taken in front of a statue of his paternal grandfather, for whom a school is named.

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Page 49 Bottom Right Saleva'a 'Konishiki' Fauli Atisano'e: Sumo Wrestler. Tokyo, Japan My real name is Saleva'a Fauli Atisano'e. I was born on December 31st, 1963 at 11:45 p.m. in Honolulu, Hawaii but my parents are from Tutuila, Samoa. My dad is Lautoa Atisano'e from Tula and my mom is Talafa'aiva from Poloa. I have 4 older brothers, 2 older sisters, and a baby sister now in her senior year in college. On my 4th birthday I had my first haircut. Since everyone was planning to be busy on December 31st, the party was held on the 28th which made it a combined birthday with my older sister. I remember the party because I had my first haircut ever. The Rev. Su'esu'e Lutu did the honors. At the age of 5,1 started to attend a school close by in Waianae called Nanaikapono Elementary. It was right on the beach so everyday I was able to walk to school on the sand. Nothing extraordinary happened but there were alot of nice walks along the beach. In the 4th grade I joined a Hawaiian dance club. Because of this, I had my first plane ride wnen we performed on the Big Island of Hawaii. That same year my teacher, Mr Tamashiro wrote a very nice comment on my report card.' Sale is a good worker both in and out of class." This made my daa very happy. But something not so nice happened that same year. I got into a big fight with a fellow who was older than I. At that time there was a big rumble between the Samoans and Hawaiians. The principal called in the police. I was scared as hell to go home because my teacher had notified my parents about what happened. It was 3 or 4 years before I ever got into another fight! I was best in mathematics and in eating lunch. But I was most interested in science and English. By the age of six I had started performing in front of people. I sang in the church choir because my parents are verv religious. In 1979,1 entered the University of Hawaii Laboratory High School. The kids were from all different cultural backgrounds. Everyone had a different way of thinking and doing things. But it was small and so we all got to know and respect one another and everyone was close. That school changed my life. I saw a whole new world out there beyond my neighborhood. At first things were different academically, but I gradually caught on. After graduation I planned to go into music and pre-law. But in 1982, my senior year, Jesse Kuhaulua, a sumo wrestler in Japan came and talked to me. He thought I was a good prospect. I didn't know anything about either sumo or Japan, but he convinced me. III just have to pursue my college education later. A month after graduation, I came to Japan wearing an 'ie faitaga (a sarong with pockets — Samoan formal wear), a T-shirt with the Great Seal of American Samoa, a pair of shoes, a photo album of friends and family, and a Bible. It was frightening being in a foreign country where I couldn't speak, understand, or read the language. Even the writing was undecipherable. Everything was different, especially the food. I lived in a club with Jesse and the other sumo wrestlers and started at the bottom as a novice. I cleaned the toilets, washed dishes, and the older guy's laundry (those senior to me). I was the last to eat, last to shower, and last to sleep. You become a total servant. It was very hard for I entered sumo at 18. The others all started at 15 and so I had to take orders from them. On top of that I went to sumo school for 6 months. There, all aspects of wrestling were taught in Japanese, a language I couldn't understand. Since I was so big I was put up against some of the biggest and best wrestlers from the very beginning. I really got thrashed till llearned what to do. I always had a towel nearby. Between bouts, people thought I was wiping away

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the sweat. I was wiping my tears. At times I wanted to go home but there was no way I was going home with only empty hands. Besides I'm a Samoan. Even though I was exhausted at the end of the day I didn't want to close my eyes for almost every dream was a nightmare. Fortunately I had an aptitude for the sport. It normally takes from 5 to 7 years to achieve a ranking. It took me one year and eight months — 8 tournaments. After that, I movedup one rank after another. I'm now in my 5th year and I'm the first foreigner ever to achieve the rank of Champion. If I win 2 more tournaments, I can become the Grand Champion of Japan. I've had a running battle with the media. For the longest time they insisted on calling me Hawaiian. But that's finally changing. They now report that I'm a Samoan born in Hawaii, and that makes me proud.

Sgt. M o a Pisia: U.S. Forces. Seoul, Korea I was born on the 3rd of April, 1962 at Vailoatai, Tutuila. My father is Pisia Solomona of Papa, Sataua, Savaii and my mother To'osavili Tuatagaloa of Vailoatai, Tutuila. One of my first memories was going to the Pastor's school. My grandfather was one of my teachers. A strict but very loving person, he taught me the alphabet. I attended Leone Midkiff Elementary School and Leone High School. I especially loved going to the speech festivals. I guess because I was good at it. In 19791 came in second. After high school I went straight into the ?rmy. My family was against the decision, "Who's going to look after you?" but away I went. First stop was Hawaii. We stayed in a hotel in Waikiki. Army life was very different from what I'd expected. I knew there would be orders Dut didn't realize how controlled my life would be. It was hard but it was my decision and I made up my mind that I'd make it work. Making up my mind was one thing but basic training in South Carolina was something else. It was hot and exhausting. I had a rough time, my letters home sounded just the opposite. I learned a lesson tnat I've never forgotten. If you really want something, plan your goals and work. Eventually you'llget it. I completed basic in the top ten per cent of my class and went to Ft. Sam Houston for Advanced Individual Training (AIT) as a dental assistant. My uncle Lopa is a dentist back home and I saw that ne really enjoyed his work so I decided to do the same thing. My first tour of duty was Ft. Riley, Kansas. Even after all my training, I was not prepared for the blood. I got sick my very first day and wondered what I'd gotten myself into. But there was no way I was going to let anyone think a Samoan couldn't take it. So when I recovered I made myself go back and assist with oral surgery in the operating theater. In 19841 returned to Ft. Sam Houston for training in X-rays, fillings, rebuilding a tooth and taking impressions. I graduated and was assigned to Korea. So many people said 'You won't like Korea". When I arrived we took a bus from the airport passing through rice paddies. It was so beautiful. The green reminded me of home. Ana when I met the people, they were beautiful too, not just outside but inside also. I love being in Korea and doing my work. A lot of people back home think that Koreans come from a very poor environment. Korea is a rich environment and this is one lucky Samoan who is happy to be here. Author's Note: Sgt. Pisia took up racquetball for the first time in 1981. She really enjoyed it and ever since has played whenever she got the chance. In 1986-87 she was the female racquetball champion for the U.S. Forces in Korea and in 1986 was sent to Ft. Ben Harrison, Indiana for the All Army tournament where she took third place.

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Kolotita Stowers: T.V. Production. Seoul, Korea

Keisa Marie Fong: Student. Beijing, The People's Republic of China

I was born on the 28th of September, 1949 at Safotu Savaii, the eldest daughter of the late William Stowers of Leauva'a and Savaii Stowers (nee Tuiloa) of Safotu. I was the fourth in a family of 11,6 brothers and 4 sisters all born at the National Hospital in Apia except for me, I was born in Savaii. My parents had travelled to Savaii to attend the dedication of the Catholic Church (our denomination). The following day my mother gave birth to me. I attended St Mary's Primary School, Savalalo, and completed my education at St Mary's College, Vaimoso from 1964-65. Immediately after I started working for the Broadcasting department as a librarian. Later I was promoted to the programme division where I now work as the Senior Programme Producer. While in school I thought I'd like to become a nurse so that I could serve my country, especially in times of sickness. I never dreamt that I would be speaking over the radio and heard by the whole of Samoa. After my 1st year, when I was familiar with the work I decided to make radio my career. Being a broadcaster is not easy but it's certainly interesting. It s just like going to school, you learn new things every day. Whatever program you're going to produce, you have to keep your audience in mind. What willappealto tnem and how you can best reacn them. Whether it's radio magazine, documentary, feature, drama, etc. you must know your subject thoroughly, before you can produce a good programme. During preparation you're like a student, learning and collecting information, but wnen your programme is aired, you're tne teacher, informing the people. If you don't do your homework, you're still a student but worst of all, you're a poor teacher and you're fooling your own people. Now that I've spent 19 years in radio, it's a living element in my life. I was recently selected to attend an international workshop on television programme production, in South Korea. It was an adventure coming from my little country to that economic powerhouse with its millions of people. They may be wealthy but there are a lot of problems, between the people and their government and between the North and South. My problem is communication. No one of course can speak my language and only a few speak English. I am so lonely that I want to come home. I tnink to myself, thank God, that although Samoa is small, it is peaceful, has a nice climate and everywhere you go there is someone who can help a foreigner. Most of the participants are from African countries, Latin America, and the Middle East. Only one man comes from this part of the world, Fiji. Learning television production is not easy. You need to know everything all at once. The production elements and activities interact and depend on one another. I am trying to learn what tools there are and what they can and cannot do. Television production involves complex equipment and the coordination of a team of production specialists. In radio you can produce a programme all by yourself. I've been married to Filipo Ah Kau (Executive Salaries Officer — Treasury Dept.) since 1975 but I'm commonly known as Kika Stowers. We have 7 children, 2 girls and 5 boys all living together with my mother and 2 brothers at our home in Sinamoga, about 10 minutes drive from downtown Apia. Only 2 of my brothers are now in Samoa, all the others are in NZ, and neighboring Tutuila. My other sister is a nun and one brother is training for the priesthood in Rome. Now that I've started learning television production, difficult that it is, I want to continue. I love my work and am proud to be serving my country and my people in this field.

I was born on the 9th of May, 1963, in Apia, Upolu. I come from a family of 7 kids. I'm second to the youngest of 5 boys and 2 girls. My dad, mum and grandfather (mother's father, I never knew my father's parents) were the greatest influence in my life. My dad, John Yuen Fong came from Shanghai, is an honest, successful businessman exerting himself into earning money to support his family. Although at times we thought his advice went' in one ear ana out the other," in reality whatever he was trying to convey got through, was embedded and disciplined us greatly. My mother, Marie Kuresa of Tufuiopa, is a hard working, God-fearing woman who endeavoured to drill the Bible into us. Ever since childhood we woke up early for morning prayers and went to church every Saturday. She was patient, kind-hearted — always giving. Her calmness in times of chaos never failed to reassure me that everything would be OK. I now realize and am truly grateful for teachings and upbringing I once took for granted, for now in altogether different surroundings, I am able to utilize and refer to them when faced with personal and social difficulties. Last but not the least was my grandfather, Malotutoatasi Sauni Kuresa. In his lifetime he had achieved and given (I think) more than anyone could have done for his country. To me he was a great musician and human being. He composed the Western Samoan National Anthem and "Lota Nu'u Moni" and several other national hymns. I never realized how great an impression he left on me until he died. I had gained only a fraction of this wonderful human being. Now memories of him are all I have to live on and learn from. He taught me to go on despite failures, and mishaps and disappointments. And that's what I'm doing right now. In Primary level I was educated from Primers to Second Form at "Adventist Central School' Lalovoaea 1969-75. A very reluctant student, in standard two, for nearly a year, I had to be pushed and urged to go to school. I vowed once I'd completed high school I'd go to work, wnich I aid for almost 8 years. Being part Chinese I d always wanted to visit China, my relatives and to see the places my dad had talked about. When I was accepted for a scholarship to China it was like a dream come true. We arrived at Beijing International Airport. On the way to town, what caught my attention was not the still gray buildings with hardly any lights on, but the road itself. It was wide enough to allow for 4 cars at a time witn tall light posts and beautiful flowers lining the way. There were just a few cyclists and street vendors enjoying the warm summer dusk at 1:45 in the morning. The reception we got at the Beijing Language Institute was like no other I've ever experienced. The big gate to the school was shut, explanations to get in. The building door of Ba Lou was locked, more explanations. Then we had to cope with tne Shifu (sort of like a dean) who spoke only in the language we had yet to learn. Thankfully there were 2 European girls who interpreted and helped us get our luggage to our room. It was cola, impersonal and unreceptive. Blank walls with paint partly stripped, windows without curtains, a bare concrete floor, just the beds, desks, chairs, and bookshelves. After travelling 16 hours without sleep, anxious and worn out such a cold reception was too much. On one hand there arose a desire to hop on the first flight home but there also was the feeling that China wasn't going to beat us. We were Samoan. We decided to make room 207, Building 8, our haven. The second day Beijing will forever live in my memory. It represented a time in my life when I experienced a feeling of utter frustration, was about to lose control of my senses and go mad.

We were homesick and wanted to call home as we had done when we first arrived. We went back to what we thought was the same hotel, wrong building, and no calls allowed unless we were guests. We took to the streets again. An hour or so later we came to the familiar hotel but received the same story. We tried to be pleasant while holding back tears of anger. I said to myself, "No way is Beijing going to defeat me. We are going to make our phone calls." Soloia was close to tears and that made me feel even more protective and responsible. I suggested walking on as I'd remembered seeing an International Telephone Exchange. On we trudged. By now it was getting dark. There were stares and amused looks from passerbys. Whenever we tried to ask anyone, they only looked at us or replied in Chinese. I never felt so handicapped in all my life. We couldn't speak the language or even read the signs. Finally we reached the long sought place. More people, more faces, and more language barriers. Fortunately we found a foreign student who tried to explain the destination of our calls. They didn't even know where "Si Samoya" was, let alone having heard of it. After more explanations of South Pacific regions and Fiji (Fiji at least was known because of its coup) we got through. Thank goodness! Our own people, our own language. We felt so much better, despite tne time taken. We are so fortunate to have each other. It is comforting that despite the difference in our age, we are able to communicate, laugh, and cry together. To take things seriously wouldn't do. Laughter is our solution. We have had many similar experiences but the impact wasn't the same. I don't resent experiencing them but accept them as part of growing up. It brings to mind wnat my aad always said, "Life will never be what it was and never will be what it is."

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Soloia Lumepa Meleisea: Student. Beijing, People's Republic of China My earliest memories are filled with people, rich with culture and a village only slightly touched by Western ideas. I was born in Moto'otua Hospital, Upolu to Rev. Filipo Otto Meleisea and Maraea Muliaumaseali'i on the 11th of April, 1968. From the age of six when I first entered school, I lived away from my parents. My school was on Upolu and my father, an L.M.S. minister was in Vaisala Savaii. I lived with grandparents, plus aunties, uncles and cousins. It was a typical Samoan extended family. My grandmother was an extremely religious woman who never failed to quote from the Bible. I never thought much about her preachings until they proved right in later life. My grandfather was a matai, as well as a judge for tne High Courts of Western Samoa (Fanua ma Suafa section). He was a man of few words, hard working, honest, God-fearing, loved and much respected by his aiga (extended family) and itumalo (district). My memories of him are some of the most wonderful I have. When he passed away in 1978,1 thought the world was over. These two people influenced my life a great deal. They drilled us with cultural and religious values on which I nave tried to base my life. Because of them I truly know something of my culture. Every weekend would be spent in Poutasi, Falealili, my grandfather's home village. Saturday mornings were dreaded for there would be no breakfast until all the grounds were rid of rubbish. One Saturday we had finished our work and 7 of us were sitting in the fale (traditional Samoan house), plates ready, waiting for an uncle carrying a huge pot towards us. He made it into the fale and dropped it.

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It was terrible watching our breakfast spread all over the small stones which made up the floor. We sat there in silence, stunned, and then the tears came streaming down our faces. Never had I experienced such disappointment. Since we did a lot of commuting between the village ana town, I became more and more confused in trying to distinguish which suited me best. In the village the fa'a-Samoa (the Samoan way) was very strong and we had to live by it. Religion was also a very important part of village life. It was a ritual to go to Sunday school, attend both services and an absolute "tabu" to swim on the Sabbath. On the other hand there was Apia, very much glamourised by the villagers. Personally I thought there wasn t much difference, except for Apia's school. I attended them all through my educational life. Although educated and indoctrinated with Western ideas, in Apia my cultural and religious beliefs still influenced most of my decisions. Since my family, namely my grandmother, believed in discipline, the rod was never spared. I dreaded tne beltings, so I did anything to avoid it, sometimes being successful and sometimes... alas! Beginning of 1984 saw me entering Auckland Girls Grammar School (AGGS) in New Zealand as a fourth former. This was my first encounter with culture shock. New Zealand to me was a place where couples could hold hands in public and elderly women wore makeup and leotards. After living a sheltered existence, seeing old women at home being respectable and wearing decent clothing, and where any intimate gestures were frowned upon, it was all like being in a "foreign film". My initial shock gradually changed into a fascination for tne different cultures. AGGS was a multiracial school and the majority of Pacific Islanders attending it were Samoan. Ironically most could not speak the language or perform a simple siva (traditional Samoan dance). By the end of 1986,1 was heading back to Samoa with a Sixth Form Certificate which qualified me for entrance into the National University of Samoa at 7th Form level. I attended N.U.S. until I left on August 28th 1987 for China. My first impression of China was that it was so controlled, the construction of houses, the roads and even the plants. Everything looked so monotonous, grey and bleak. Even in the early hours of the new day, dust was everywhere. An acute surge of homesickness overwhelmed me, never had I had a stronger desire to see coconut trees and fales. After half an hour's drive, Keisa Fong and I arrived in school only to find out the dean could not speak English. Fortunately 2 European girls interpreted for us and our room turned out to be 207. It was bare, cold and tne most depressing thing I've ever seen. After a terrible flight of 16 hours, the tears that had been determinedly banked now overflowed. But once a Samoan, always a Samoan. I slept on my troubles and awoke more determined than ever to finish what I'd started. I felt so fortunate to have another Samoan to share these experiences with. It is so good to turn my head and find someone from my country who had the same sense of humour and the same values. I think I would have been completely lost without Keisa. Now after 4 months in China I have readjusted and adapted my lifestyle. This place is the ultimate test for my sense of independence and my beliefs, both religious and cultural. I have accepted the fact that this is not home, the people, their culture and religion are a complete contrast to mine. In doing so, I nave been able to see things more realistically and have learned to accept and appreciate their culture and religion. By living away from Samoa, I have truly learned to appreciate my country, my people and my culture. A communal way of life agrees with me.

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Claudine Punipuao Toleafoa: International Tennis Player. Photo: Hong Kong

Eti Laulala: Pilot. Java, Indonesia

I was born in Auckland, New Zealand on 28 February, 1970. My father is Afamasaga Fa'amatala Toleafoa of Fasito'otai. My mother Phillipa Lousley is from Dunedin, New Zealand. I was 3 years old when my family moved to Samoa after my father completed his studies. My first impressions of Samoa were gained in Fasito'otai, Upolu where we lived next to a church. My family has moved around in the past few years because of my father's work. Consequently my experience of living in Samoa has been limited. In fact, I have primarily grown up in New Zealand except for the time we had in Samoa and Fiji. Some day I hope to spend much more time there, but for the moment, I need to travel in order to break into the international tennis circuit. This will be my first year, playing tennis full time after completing high school in 1986.1 have already spent 6 weeks on the Asian Junior Circuit (Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, etc.), ana played in the Australian Junior Open in January. Later this year, I will be in Europe for the French and Wimbledon tournaments as well as at the U.S. Open and other matches in North America. I have been selected for the New Zealand Federation Cup team which competes in Vancouver, Canada, in August and will provide further opportunity to compete against the best tennis players in the world. My long term plans are to play tennis professionally. Some of my achievements to date in this sport include: • Past holder of national titles in all junior divisions and currently N.Z. junior women's champion. • Member of N.Z. Federation Cup team 1987. • Auckland Tennis Player of the Year 1986. • Nominated for Auckland Sports Personality of the Year Award, 1987. I also represented Samoa in tennis in the South Pacific Games in the Cook Islands in 1984. One of the memories I have from that time was having my team mates and supporters cheering for me during matches. This was such a new and wonderful experience as I am usually on my own when playing matches around the world. I look forward to representing Samoa again either in the South Pacific Games competition or in other competitions.

My name is Eti Laulala. I was born on December 8th, 1957 at Safotu on the island of Savaii. I am the fourth child in a family of ten (6 boys and 4 girls). My father Tuilaepa Laulala, was a school teacher, and my mother, Solinuu Tamatoa Kirisome, is a nurse at Safotu Hospital. Most of my years as a teenager were spent in the village of Sapapalii, Savaii. My parents moved there in 1960. My primary education was frequently interrupted as my father often took me to his own school. He did this whenever he felt I wasn't learning enough or when my behavior was not to his satisfaction. He was a man of discipline and didn't hesitate to beat his sons with a long thick stick whenever we misbehaved. He instilled in us the belief that if one does well in school many of the good things in life will come. In 1970, just after the plane disaster at Faleolo Airport, I made my first trip to the island or Upolu to attend Intermediate School. (Now that I look back on it that plane crash and my thoughts about it had a profound influence on my life.) I had passed the Leiififi Intermediate entrance exam and studied there until I graduated and went on to Samoa College in 1972. That year was a time of deep sorrow and loss to all of us. My father passed away in September, after being ill for 2 years. During the succeeding years at Samoa College, his words and teachings were always in my heart. It was a difficult period but my mother helpecfus through it. She was the great driving force benind all of us. I graduated from Samoa College with University Entrance in 1975. All my classmates applied for further education overseas. There were not many choices available ana almost everyone wanted to go to New Zealand. During my interview, I told the Scholarship Board that I did not want to go to tne University of the South Pacific in Fiji because Fiii was another island like Samoa, with no winter, no tall buildings and I thought that the education would not be comparable to that of a N.Z. university. My second choice was Air Traffic Control. (Memories of that plane crasn in 1970 when I first left my village to study in Apia). I was selected for training in New Zealand. In 19781 qualified and returned to Samoa as an Air Traffic Controller to work at Faleolo Airport. From 1978 to 19801 worked as a Flight Service Officer. And when Air Traffic Control was established in 19801 was one of only 2 controllers (the other was a New Zealander. In September 1981,1 was married to Avarua Laloata of Afega. We now have 2 children, a son named Casey and a daughter named Sinatala. While training as an Air Traffic Controller, I always dreamt about becoming a pilot. A dream I couldn't afford. My big break came in 1985 when I heard on the radio that a scholarship was offered for pilot training in Indonesia. I was accepted and told that I should leave immediately. I arrived in Indonesia on January 29th and immediately began my training by learning the language. In April I started my flight training. What was supposed to be a two-year course, I completed in 11 months. I am now looking forward to going home this Christmas 1986, with my Commercial Pilot's License and an engineer's license in Multi-engine and Instrument Ratings. I am very grateful to the Governments of Western Samoa and Indonesia for giving me this opportunity.

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Sister Telesia Lafaele Utoaluga: Catholic Nun. Singapore

Talavou Ala'ilima: Student. Colombo, Sri Lanka

I was born in 1951 at Tuasivi, Savaii. After College I taught at the Marist Brothers school, Mulivai. While growing up physically and spiritually, I heard about the Little Sisters of the Poor and their work. Through correspondence I learned even more. When in 1971 they came to Samoa and began their work, I was convinced it was what I wanted to dedicate my life to. I entered the Congregation in 1972.1 was sent to Australia to start my life as a Sister at our House of Formation. In 19751 made my profession as a Little Sister of the Poor. My first mission and Home was Hong Kong. We have 3 Homes there. The city fascinated me with its richness and poverty. It was the first time in my life I had ever seen so many people! In the beginning it was stranee to hear a language totally different from my own. Before I learned to distinguish the Chinese characters they looked like beautiful flowers! I spent 3 happy and memorable years in our Kowloon Home, Hong Kong. In 19781 moved to France and spent 3 months learning that language. It is always good to learn a language in its home country. You hear it and speak it everyday, practise does make perfect! I find it enriching to learn a new language, communicating to people in their own tongue. I spent 4 years in France working in several of our Homes before I made my final vows, to five forever as a Little Sister of the Poor. In 19821 came to Singapore where I am now serving. Our work primarily reaches out to the elderly. We receive the poor, irrespective of their colour, race or creed. And Singapore certainly is a multi-racial nation. Our Home has quite a mixture. The Chinese are the majority but they speak several dialects. The sisters' ears have to be attuned to all of these. We try to make ours a real home, creating a family spirit where love, peace and harmony reign. We learn a lot from the old people, their rich experiences, their wisdom, and their abandonment to the will of God as they come to the evening of their lives. As long as there are old people in this world we will serve them, for this is our life and vocation. Serving others is a great fulfillment. The more you give in love and service to others, the happier and freer you truly are.

I was born on September 2,1969 in Apia. My father's village is Vaimoso, Upolu and my mother is from Sri Lanka. I left Samoa at the age of 5 and have been living in Sri Lanka ever since. Being a Samoan, I look very different to everyone else here. I am now 17 and already 6'T tall. The average male's height in Sri Lanka is 5'6". My grandmother keeps raising her door lintels to prevent me from injuring myself. My sister Lavinia who is 14 is the tallest girl in her school as I am in mine. I don't know much about being a Samoan, but I would love to find out one day when I visit home. I have always been interested in sports. I started playing rugby at the age of 10 in the under-13 team and I have continued to play this game with great enthusiasm. I also played cricket for my school in the under-11, under-13, under15 teams as an all-rounder. I recently won the under-19 shot putt competition held for Colombo West schools. I enjoy painting, sculpture with clay, and have won several competitions. I also enjoy going on cycling trips all over the country with my friends from school. I am now concentrating on Club Cricket and hope to represent Sri Lanka one day. We often go to visit our tea estate in Matele, which is 100 miles from Colombo. It has Deen handed down from generation to generation since my great grandfather started it. We now grow spices, pepper and cloves, in vacant areas as prices are good for these crops. I have been learning to run it from my mother. It's really quite extraordinary being a Samoan living on a tea estate in Sri Lanka.

Loimata,Stewart and Louise Norup: Mother of school children. Thimphu, Bhutan I was born in Vaimoso, Upolu and brought up in that village by my grandparents Tala'imanu and Fale'afa. When I was 6 years old, I attended Apia Primary School at Malifa for 4 years, and then went to Vaimoso District Village School. After that I went to the Church College of Western Samoa and graduated in 1967. For the next several years I attended Teachers Training College until I left for New Zealand in 1970.1 didn't like the program at Auckland Business College so a year later I returned to Samoa to finish my Teaching Course. I graduated in 1971 and taught at Pesenga Primary School for 41/2 years when I married my husband Kim Stefan Norup of Copenhagen, Denmark. We left Samoa in 1975 for Australia and lived in Adelaide for one and a half years. My first child Stewart was born there. After Australia we moved to Fiji where my husband worked on a hydro scheme for 8 years and that is where my second child Louise was born. We left for Denmark in 1985 and my husband worked for the Danish Engineering Firm of Covi Consultants. A year later we were transferred to Thimphu, Bhutan where we now live. Kim is a Senior Resident Engineer working on a Water Supply Scheme for 6 towns in the Kingdom. Stewart and Louise attend elementary school. Their uniforms are traditional Bhutanese dress. Living away from Samoa is difficult at times especially when there's a problem. That's when I feel very much alone. Samoans are able to rely on their parents and families. I have no extended family in Bhutan. It can be difficult adjusting to and fitting in with a different lifestyle, different food, and different customs and beliefs. At the same time, it's a wonderful experience to be in this part of the world. Although Bhutan is a truly fascinating country there still is NO PLACE LIKE HOME - SAMOA IS MY BEAUTIFUL AND BELOVED COUNTRY.

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Nu'uausala Siaosi Siutaia: Pastor. Bangalore, India and Luanshya, Zambia

Maluifafo Siaosi Siutaia: Wife and Co-Worker. Bangalore, India and Luanshya, Zambia

Laloifi Lelaulu Tuisamoa Habshi: Housewife, Kuwait

My father is Rev. Siaosi Siutaia from Saleilua Falealili, Upolu. My mother is Silafa'i Tofilau of Saleilua Falealili, Upolu. I was born on 7th April 1953 in Nofoalii Upolu where my father was a teacher in the Nu'uausala Church School at the time. He took up the pastorate in Satapuala and from 1958 to 19631 attended primary school there. After that my education was at A'ana Junior High School, Samoa College and Leulumoega Fou. In 19711 entered the South Pacific Regional College of Tropical Agriculture at Alafua, graduated in 1973 with a Diploma and workea for the Department of Agriculture. Although I had a chance for further agricultural studies in Hawaii, I did not go for I felt God's call for the ministry. I entered Malua Theological College in 1975 and graduated 3 years later with a Diploma in Theology. Before the end of my final year the Congregational Christian Church in Samoa and the United Churcn of Zambia agreed to send me to Zambia through the Council for World Mission in London. I was ordained in December and immediately left for Birmingham England for an orientation course on missionary work. I arrived in Zambia on Easter Monday, 1979. A dawn to dusk curfew was in effect because of raids by Rhodesian forces. (That country is now called Zimbabwe.) Tension was high in our capital Lusaka. On my third day there I was arrested as a suspected spy and locked up. As I crouched in that cell with 15 others my first thoughts were to return to Samoa as soon as I was released. Life in an African prison was unlike anything I had ever experienced and it sorely tried my soul. But as time passed I came to see my imprisonment as a trial to be overcome. I became more determined than ever to fulfill my mission. This ordeal strengthened and greatly helped me to surmount the many problems I later faced in my African ministry. From May to September 19791 underwent an orientation in the language and customs of my people. I learned Cibemba for it is widely spoken in the mining town of Luanshya where I worked in the Copperbelt. In April 19811 returned to Samoa on home leave. It was then that I met my wife Maluifafo. We were married in July and returned to Zambia for another 4 years. In the beginning our ministry was difficult. We were the first non-English missionaries in tne area. We tried to show the other missionaries that we wanted to be friends and to work together with them. Gradually this came to be and as a result we had a happy and successful ministry. We cared for the poor and the needy, constructed new church buildings and established several new churches in the rural areas. We enjoyed working with the Zambians, and our experience with them will be treasured for the rest of our lives. One of the great nonours bestowed on us was when the Luanshya gave their church hall my name, Siaosi Hall. We left Zambia in April 1985, stopping briefly in Samoa before proceeding to India for further education through tne Council for World Mission. I am presently studying in the United Theological College in Bangalore for a Master of Theology in Christian Ministry with a major in Pastoral Counselling. I chose counselling for in Zambia I discovered that I wanted to learn how to more effectively deal with people's needs. I pray that my training will be of benefit wherever God may send us.

My father is Paepae Luamata Fai'ai and my mother Fale Kereti, are both from Utumea, Tutuila. I was born on June 13,1958 in the same village. When I was 3 months old, my paternal grandparents took me to Olosega, Manu'a where they raised me until I was twelve. I returned to Tutuila to continue my primary education, and in 19731 entered Leone High School. When I graduated I received a government scholarship and studied at the University of Hawaii in Hilo, Hawaii. I graduated and returned home. It was an important homecoming for I met my husband Nu'uausala who had just arrived from Zambia on leave. We were married and a week later left for Zambia to continue the missionary work. I was fortunate to arrive in Africa and find myself among friends who welcomed me with enthusiasm. Almost immediately I became involved with the women's work, Sunday school and the Girls' Brigade. In our women's fellowship we initiated a programme of hospital visitations and help for the poor. My experience with the Zambians, especially the women and girls whom I worked most closely with,was a blessing. The intimacy of sharing in word, laughter and responsibility made my relationship with them a very warm one indeed. I thank God for such a great opportunity to live and to work together with my African brothers and sisters. Both my husband and I hope some day to work there again. We are now in the United Theological College in Bangalore, India and my husband is working on a Master of Theology degree. I am taking a Certificate course in Christian Service which includes Christian education, Old and New Testament, home service, and so on. I hope to continue next year and if possible to complete a Diploma. I treasure these studies for they help me to better fulfill my cooperative ministry with my husband.

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Sometimes I could swear the man sitting opposite me in the coffee shop is my Uncle Posenai, or his brother Keresepi — until I realise the coffee shop where I am is not in Apia, or Auckland — but in Cairo, Egypt, and then I realise how far from home I nave strayed. But then, I suppose it should have been expected because my own parents, LeLaulu Nonu Tuisamoa and lliganoa Leauanae, themselves left the comfortable confines of Samoa with the promise of long and profitable careers, to the unknown shores of New Zealand, for the sole purpose of giving their children the opportunities they themselves would never Know. I remember how hard it was leaving Papauta, Upolu where I was born, to be brought up with my grandfather, Tuisamoa Tuputau, in Vaovai, Falealili, Upolu. That initial move, probably started the wanderlust that seems to have afflicted our family, and now my parents complain they need round-the-world tickets to see all of their children! My family photo albums, so much a part of Samoan family life, look as though tney were designed by a fanciful child: there are shots of my sister Samalaulu loana and me clad in the traditional silk "kimono" in the northern mountains of Japan where we spent a year. There I am with my Uncle Oliva and cousin Viliamu performing a siva for the King and Queen of Malaysia in the Royal Palace while the Prime Minister looks on. Also in the photo is the huge chandelier which cousin Sonny McCarthy very shortly after shattered with nis ceremonial knife during his fire dance. A few pages into the photo album reveals us in sarong, celebrating Christmas — natural enough except it is in Iceland during the Arctic winter. My beautiful younger sister, Maupenei, joins us in photos modelling hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of diamonds from New York's Harry Winston during a special Polynesian night organised by my older brother at the Palace Hotel in St. Moritz, billionaires' playground and nideaway of the European aristocracy. And there we are again, it's my wedding day in Auckland, New Zealand. My husband Edmond, is half Greek half Egyptian and is a citizen of Lebanon, and probably a little perplexed by the "small, intimate family" celebration, or about 400 people. Mother visits us in war-torn Beirut where my two children loana and Maria-Noa were born, and as a sign of the times Mummy is posing, alternatively, on top of a camel dressed in Arab gear, and in my sitting room, cradling not one of her grandaughters but a Chinese sub-machine gun. And here is the closest thing we have had to a family reunion in 20 years — most of our clan gathered together — in New Orleans. We now make our home in Kuwait made rich by oil. The Kuwaitis themselves are simple, friendly, people, not unlike Samoans — except their oil deposits have made them among the richest people in the world. And you know, I see so many people who look Samoan in the streets of Kuwait and the rest of the Arab world that I never feel too far from home — especially when my daughters sing grace before meals — in Samoan.

Africa Zambia Kenya The Sudan Egypt

Nu'uausala Siaosi Siutaia: Pastor. Luanshya, Zambia and Bangalore, India Autobiography found on Page 177 Maluifafo Siaosi Siutaia: Wife and Co-Worker. Luanshya, Zambia and Bangalore, India Autobiography found on Page 177

Page 66 Left and Right Sister Tekauita: Catholic Nun. Meru, Kenya In the early dawn of March 26th, 1950, at A'asu, Tutuila, the new light from heaven overjoyed the family. It was a time when my parents, devoted Catholics, again sharedtne gift of parenthood, when their fourth child entered this world. My father was Sipili SuaPa'ia. His mother belongs to the Aiga of 5a Le'oso. My mother is Folole Leiu of Solosolo and Suiavaoalii Lamositele of Falealupo. My parents were Catechists before my father died in 1960. My elementary education was wherever my parents moved. I started at Masefau, Tutuila then to Leulumoega (St Joan of Arc), Upolu, and Leone (St Theresa), Tutuila. Later I went to Leone High School, the Feleti Memorial School and the Community College. As a youth, life was enjoyable, I was involved in different church organizations. I worked as a policewoman in the department of Public Safety. It was exciting, but God had other plans for me. I was fortunate to have parents who devotedly gave their life to the church. It was their up-bringing and faith that led me to such a call. In August 1975,1 left for New Zealand, beginning my religious life in the Congregation of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd. For 2 years I trained in Melbourne, Australia and in Tahiti. It was my eateway to neaven. I believe that heaven is here at our door step. It is the way that we live our life, with ourself and with others. The archdiocese of Wellington, New Zealand with its Polynesian chaplaincy was my first mission. For 6 months, I was in charge of the hostel for unwed mothers. It was a wonderful experience for I witnessed 9 infants enter the world. How beautiful and marvellous is the work of the Lord. Reaching out to the needs of my people in the Hutt Valley, in court, prison and hospital were stepping stones along the path of my life. 1982 to '83 was a time for recharging my battery, a time of spiritual renewal in the Philippines. My experiences there opened new horizons. I witnessed the depressed, tne homeless and the impoverished. Yet in spite of material poverty ana deprivation these brothers and sisters had a tremendous faith and love for one another and their country. Seeing Christ in the eyes of the poor, strengthened my own convictions to live for Him.

It was from this experience that I came to especially treasure my heritage and its values. I am very proud that I am Samoan and share in such a rich culture. In April 1984,1 volunteered for Africa. I am now working in Meru, Kenya, some 265 km. north of Nairobi. My ministry is in the field of social work where almost anything goes. Although I specialized in youth ministry in the school, parish, and family, I find that my greatest satisfaction comes when I am with the women and girls who have been exploited and pushed aside by society. Caring and loving for these special people is like seeing Christ in the eyes or the poorest of the poor in the Philippines. Being with these women and girls in their tiny rooms, in the market, in nignt clubs ana bars or hotel lounges is like meeting Jesus. The same feeling occurs when I visit people in town and in the rural areas. They share what little they have, their food ana hospitality. Sleeping in a corner of their hut gives me a deep sense of belonging. One mother said we have never been visited by a mzuneu (white Sister) before." She added, "It is not the food we give you to eat or milk to drink that counts but your coming to our home ana being with us. It is a blessing." Yes, it is a blessing that molded me into the culture and family bond of my order — thanks Maitu Beatrice. A highlight of my work has been my involvement in the preparations for the 43rd International Eucharistic Congress which was held in Kenya in 1985. It was the team work of my colleagues Rev. Julius Kathure, Rev. David Murungi, Rev. John Gaspirini MC and Rev. Vincent Ireri that made our work successful. Different renewal programmes organized for institutions, religious communities, parish, youth and families were alPhased on the theme of the Eucharistic Congress "The Eucharist and The Christian Family". From the Diocesan level Rev. Ireri and I represented our local Bishop at the national meetings. There we met with representatives from the different dioscese of Kenya and with the Papal delegate. Witnessing different cultures and traditions from the four corners ofthe world at this special event was a challenge to me to live my life with all His people. Truly with my present ministry, my life is fully alive.

Page 69 Liuga Faumui: Deputy U.N. Representative. Khartoum, Sudan At time of publication, autobiography had not been received.

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Europe Italy The Vatican Spain France The Netherlands Belgium Switzerland Germany Denmark Sweden Norway United Kingdom

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Page 71Left and Right Sister M . Emanuela smsm (Anna Betham): Rome, Italy I was born on the 20th of January, 1936, in a family of 5 girls and 2 boys. All of us, except my youngest brother John, were born at home in Leagiagi, Aleipata, Upolu. My father, Gus Betham, Jr., of Apia, Upolu, now retired, was a builder, and it was during a building project in Saleaumua, Aleipata that he met and married my mother, Sesilia Lutovi'o Brown of Leagiagi, Samusu, Upolu. My maternal grandmother, Akenese Fepuleai Brown (of happy and grateful memory) bought a piece of land for the family at Leone, Apia where we built a second home. This was done because Apia offered better education possibilities than Aleipata. My brothers, including Tltiuatoa, my adopted brother, all went to the Marist Brothers School, and Chanel College. My sisters and I went to the Marist Missionary Sisters school at Savalalo, except for my youngest sister Beatrice, who attended St Mary's College, Vaimoso. I worked as a shortnand-typist for almost 2 years at the Prime Minister's Office in Apia. Even at that time I was thinking of becoming a sister in the congregation which had taught me — the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (smsm). Their dedicated and God-centered lives, their untiring works in teaching and other services of charity for our people, made me want to be like them and to follow their way. At the same time I wanted the experience of a young girl working in town before entering the convent. I knew that being in an office in town would make my parents and especially mama, my grandmother, very happy. After a couple of years, two other Samoans and I entered the novitiate at Heretaunga, New Zealand. After 6 years there, I returned to Samoa and joined our other Sister-students who were studying at our St Mary's College, Vaimoso. After passing the New Zealand University Entrance I was given my First teaching assignment in our Primary Mission School at Falealupo, Savaii. Here I spent 3 happy and challenging years of my early mission life. Then it was bade to the studies again, this time at the University of the South Pacific, Fiji, where I graduated with a B.A. in Education. I returned to Samoa and taught at St Mary's College, Vaimoso, where I was also appointed Principal. As Principal of my alma mater, I was determined to sustain the school's high academic standards. But I also wanted to continue to incorporate the spirit of our college motto: Agaga Kerisiano (Christian Spirit), with the values of gracefulness, dignity, ana beauty of our Samoan culture and traditions. Towards the end of my fourth year as Principal, I received a letter from my Superior General in Rome asking if I could accept the post of General Financial Administrator for our Congregation. This is how I happen to be living in the Eternal City and doing administrative work for the past 5 years. Our smsm community in Rome has a free afternoon every Thursday. I use this time for a little apostolate at the Via Degli Astalli Refugee Center, near the Piazza Venezia. For also here in the heart of Rome, the poor of Christ, in all walks of life and in all types of poverty live in a kind of hope. This Refugee Center is under the combined supervision of the Jesuits (Rome) Refugee Aid Program and Caritas International. Every evening over 100 young men ana a few young women refugees from Ethiopia ana Eritria, (just a handful of the refugees living in Rome) come for a hot meal, for some, perhaps the only meal of the day. I help prepare, cook and serve every Thursday. Sometimes I chat or listen to tneir problems, and think of ways of helping.

I find my time in Rome very enriching, and I thank God and my Sisters, especially my smsm community in Rome for this experience. I have come to appreciate and love this special city so full of marvels and beauty. It is alive with memories of the great apostles Peter and Paul and the hundreds of Christian martyrs who chose Jesus Christ and His new commandment of Love to be the center of their lives. I cherish my work and feel blessed as a Samoan that I can share my life and culture with so many of God's children.

Page 72 Left Pio Cardinal Taufinu'u: Priest. Upolu, Samoa and the Vatican Autobiography found on Page 159

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Page 73 Left Sister Lusia Barbara Pereira: Catholic Nun. Barcelona, Spain Born in Apia, Upolu, on the 2nd October, 1936, to David Pereira and Ruth Ah Chong, I was given the names of Lusia Barbara at baptism. My education was confined to the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary at Savalalo where they were carrying out a wonderful apostolate of teaching and forming young people according to Christian principles and sound moral values. In the warmth and loving a r e of my family and in tne midst of a people whose customs deeply respect life from its early conception till old age, I gradually acquired a profound love towards the aged — whom I now have tne honour to serve — together with a better appreciation of this spirit of giving and sharing which, with hospitality, is like a second nature to the Samoans. My studies terminated. I was offered employment as a shorthand/typist at the Government-owned "New Zealand Reparation Estates" in Apia. When, in the fifties, some years after my mother's death my family migrated to New Zealand, I was thankful to be able to carry out the same profession in Wellington, the capital, at the Head Office of tne Ministry of Health. My enthusiasm for my work grew stronger each day but a voice from within was making itself heard, inviting me to dedicate my life to a much nobler cause which, for me, could only be the total consecration of myself to the Lord and His service within the Church. A providential meeting with a former school friend who talked to me about the work of the Little Sisters of the Poor made me decide to go and see for myself and my one-week visit with them and their aged guests at their Home in Ponsonby, Auckland, convinced me that that was where the Lord wanted me. Later, to test my vocation, I shared during 5 months the life of the Little Sisters whose particular mission is the apostolate to the aged poor or, in other words, the humble service of those whom Christ recognizes and cherishes as the least of His brethen, regardless of race or creed. The openness of the Sisters and their family spirit together with their gentleness and simplicity struck me very much; they seemea as if they were a gift from God to the aged, His "smile", His "tangible love and tenderness" towards them, and what my eyes were then witnessing became a decisive factor in my life. Soon I asked and obtained admission to the Congregation whose Novitiate is located at Sydney, Australia, and after two and a half years spent in this formation centre my profession took place and shortly afterwards my Superiors sent me to Noumea, New Caledonia, staying and working at this Home for three and a half years before leaving for France for my last period of formation and perpetual vows. In 1961, at our Mother-House in St Pern, (Province of Ille-et-Vilaine), distant some 300 kms from Paris, at the south-west of France, I formed part of a group of 120 young sisters of 19 different nationalities, who were to follow the same course as myself. This universality augmented my love and admiration for myCatholic faith, for without having previously known one another, we all had the same aspirations, the same desires, our sole and common aim being: pass this year of formation learning more on how to love and serve God better ana our neighbour for the love of Him. Our model in this task was our French-born Mother-Foundress, the Blessed Jeanne Jugan who, in 1839 did not hesitate to offer her house and bed to a destitute blind woman in whose person her faith discerned Christ as her following words to the novices of her time testify: "My little ones, never forget that the poor are Our Lord: in caring for the poor say to yourself: This is for my Jesus — what a great grace!" And also: "To be a gooa Little Sister, one must love God and the poor a great deal, and forget oneself."

After pronouncing my final vows in 1962,1 was sent to Marseille, then to Algier and 5 years later I found myself again at the Mother-House, employed at its secretariat with many other Sisters from several countries. My work there was most interesting as is too, my actual employment as receptionist in one of our big and comfortable Homes in Barcelona, Spain, where 22 Sisters of various nationalities care for more than 100 old people amongst whom there are a few couples. I cannot thank God enough for my vocation which constantly puts me in touch with Christ in His poor and which is a source of happiness and interior peace. All my life I will cherish these treasures and hopefully with the help of the Blessed Virgin Mary my desire to give God to my brothers and sisters and lead them back to Him may be fulfilled day by day, living my consecration with humility and simplicity and irradiating the love, peace and joy of being forever a Little Sister of the Poor. With my Samoan and universal heart I gladly repeat with my Mother-Foundress: "My good Jesus, I have only You."

Faitala Talapusi: Clergyman, Doctoral Candidate. Montpellier, France I was born on June 28,1951 in Vaiala, Upolu to Talapusi Tuisila of Mapuilesua Faliuila and Imoasina liga of Tofa, Upolu. All of my education was in Apia at Malifa, Leiififi and Samoa College. During my years at Samoa College, I felt the anxiety of the future. The prospects of a government scholarship or overseas training was the goal of everyone in secondary education. My own family wanted one of us to take up medicine. Unfortunately it was not for me. In 19691 made a personal decision to enter the ministry. I was a late addition to the list of candidates for Malua Theological entrance exam. My parents were the last people to know of this development. I didn't tell them until I received word that I was accepted. Samoa College had given me an opportunity to develop my athletic ability. I played first XV ana competed in many secondary school rugby tournaments. It was a talent that developed into bigger occasions later on in my life. While at Malua I was selected in 1972 and again in 1973, to play on Samoa's National Rugby Team. I graduated from Malua Theological College and received a diploma in Theology with distinction. The Congregational Church of Samoa awarded me a scholarship for overseas training. From 1974-761 attended the Pacific Theological College, Suva, Fiji, where I also continued with my rugby to the Senior LeveL I graduated with a Bachelors of Divinity (Honors) ana received an award for Theology. During my education in Fiji, I was asked to represent the Pacific Youths at the Pacific Conference of Churches General Assembly in Port Moresby. I went and stayed on to do a study on ancestral spirit beliefs in the Papua region. I returned to Samoa and taught at Malua Theological College for a year. To me my rugby was very much a part of my human development. I continued to play in Samoa despite a Church ruling that banned ministers from participation. In 19771 was selected for the New Zealand Barbarians Rugby Side, an honour that is seldom given in the rugby fraternity. In 19781 took the first 7-A-Side National Team to the international tournament in Hong Kong as captain. Ever since then Samoa has been a participant in this great event. In 1978-19791 started on my Master's Degree at Yale University, New England. It was a very challenging time in the cold winters of that world. Anyway the grades were obtained and the thesis sustained. I graduated in absentia with an S.I.M. or Masters of Theology. In 19791 was back in Samoa with the Cnurch's printing press. A sense of frustration made me leave to work as the Associate General Secretary of the Y.M.C.A., an enriching experience. Again rugby was prominent. In 19791 captained the National Rugby team for a tour of Tonga. There were also matches against Suva Provincial Side and the British Colombia representative teams. But the event of the year for me was when I declared my vows to my fiancee Tausalaatoa Solomona. In August, 1980, we left Samoa for work in England. It was after 150 years of Christianity in Samoa that the first ever Samoan clergy was going to England to return the favour under the Partners in Mission Programme of the Council for World Mission. We were sent to the industrial city of Sheffield in north England. I worked with the Sheffield Inner City Ecumenical Mission and was appointed minister of an inner city parish, St James of the United Reformed Church. We set up work for the young people, started youth clubs, and a brass band. I also played rugby for the Sheffield Rugby Football Club, an activity which greatly improved my rapport with the young men. In 1981 my daughter Faautugatagiosamoauma Charis was Dorn in that city.

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After 3 years we returned to Samoa and I was appointed interim moderator of the Apia Protestant Church. We worked there until 1984 when we left for a teaching post at the Pacific Theological College. I was appointed lecturer in Theology and Ethics for a 5-year contract. In 19851 was made College Registrar. That same year, I was appointed President of the Fiji Council of Churches and President of the South Pacific Association of Theological Schools. The Congregational Christian Church in Samoa asked me to act as the minister in charge of the only Samoan Congregation in Suva, Fiji. The congregation was mainly Samoan students attending tertiary education in Suva, people working with the University and Samoans who had settled in Fiji. As President of the SPATS, I was invited in 1985 to go to Micronesia to conduct theological seminars. While in Ponapei I met a lot of people who were interested in the Saipan Exile. I went on to Guam to seek information about my grandfather, liga Pisa. He was one of the people sent into exile by the Germans in 1912(?) because of the Mau o Pule. He escaped from Saipan to Guam, a distance of 135 miles in open sea on a Samoan canoe whicn he had built. There he was granted amnesty by the Governor of Guam. He returned to Samoa via Hawaii in 1920. In February 1986 my second daughter Retisina Lolomaiviti was born in Fiji. And in June I arrived in France at the Centre Universite Protestante; Faculte de Theologie, Montpellier, to begin a 3-year program in theological studies for a Ph.D. To me my life journey has been a silent one. Things don't just occur, there seems to be a design. I believe that life is more than just the mainstream considerations we get caught up in. The little things that we too often take for granted brighten and give more life to life. I hope that my writing in the first person will not obscure the communal support I nave had from my family, my wife and her family, friends and village people. My life's tracks rest on a broad base of communal support, Samoa.

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Joseph Coe: International Civil Servant. Paris, France From the dusty roads of Tula'ele and Elisefou, Upolu, to the crowded and bright street lights or Paris and the Champs Elysees maybe a dream come true to some. I however, despite all that makes Paris unique and attractive, find peace and tranquility when I reflect on the serenity and the beauty of Samoa, tne lifestyle and our natural environment. These are the intangible and the tangible things that differentiates us from others and must be preserved at all cost. I was born on May 16th, 1951 in the village of Tua'ele. My father was lona (Jonas) Coe the grandson of Jonas Myndensse Coe of San Francisco who married King Malietoa's daughter Leuta and begot the famous "Queen Emma" who later built a commercial empire in British/German New Guinea in the late Nineteenth Century. During his career, my father was a "natural" in construction. As Superintendent for the Public Works Department, a position he occupied till his death in 1972, he helped plan and build roads and bridges with rudimentary equipment throughout Upolu and Savaii. At 6 ft 4 inches and weighing 300 lbs he was very much respected by his staff and colleagues as well as his immediate family of which I am fortunate to be a part.

I was educated at Marist Brothers' School, Apia, and at St Joseph's College Lotopa, and continued tertiary level at Auckland University in New Zealand from 1970-72. All my working life I have been a professional accountant. I worked for Morris Hedstrom Ltd Apia, then spent 10 years in Government Service, and eventually in 19841 became Assistant Secretary of Finance in the Treasury Department. In July 1985,1 was approached by a Finance Officer in the Paris based office of UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization) and I've been working here ever since. Coming from an English speaking country and having very little knowledge about France and the French system (including the language) made the first 6 months a real eye opener. What some might consider a cultural shock was a concerted effort by the whole family to succeed. Our first priority was to learn the language. We have come to appreciate our host country. We find beauty and richness in their culture, customs and traditions. And we have developed an admiration for their many fashionable fashions. Upon reflection, I consider myself blessed in many ways but especially worthy of mention are: — being able to be with my wife Lagi and children Bernadette, Francis, Barry, Anthony, and Dominic who have always given me moral support at home and at work. — being a part of a closely-knit family of 10, with 5 brothers and 5 sisters and having a motner like Evelini (nee Ah Soon) who still cooks the tastiest of Chinese cuisines. — to have had the opportunity for a good education and to have obtained a career in an international organization. — and lastly, and most importantly, that God has granted me the gift of being born a Samoan — body, mind and soul.

Siaosi (George) Fepulia'i: Ambassador. Brussels, Belgium I was born on the 7th of June, 1936, to Fepulia'i Aukuso of Vaimoso, Upolu and Antonia Gray of Vaiusu, Upolu. One of my earliest and fondest memories is of Sister Rosalie. She came from America and was principal of our little school in Leulumoega. My parents were going to send my 2 brothers and I to the Marist Brothers Scnool in Apia. We were good students and Sister told them that she thought it would be unfair to the school if we all left. I was the youngest and so remained as the compromise. I was one of the lucky ones and the first student from a back village awarded a chance to study overseas. I was 11 and had only been to Apia a few times in my life. We boarded the ship and stopped briefly in Niue and Tonga, small port towns. Apia held its own. Then came Suva (Fiji). I never thought there was a place bigger than Apia. Finally we came to Auckland. In the distance I saw little boxes along the shore and on the hills. Only gradually did I realize they were buildings. It was a city the size of which was beyond my imagination. I was wildeyed, homesick and lost. Another boy and I were sent to St Thomas in Lower Hutt. We were told that we wouldn't be going home for 3 years. Thank goodness I at least had a fellow Samoan to be with. That first Christmas I helped a friend sell magazines on the street. I yearned so for my people that whenever I saw someone who looked Samoan I'd cross the street and a l l out "talofa" (Hello) to see if the penny dropped. If they looked up it was like finding a long lost friend even though they were a complete stranger. After my 3rd year, I went to St Patrick's at Silverstream. It was one of New Zealand's best boys' boarding schools. In my 4th Form I was asked what trade I wanted to take up. I guess islanders were viewed as only suitable for a trade. I hadn't come all that way just to be a tradesman. I wanted to go as far as I could academically. I stayed at St Patrick's and passed my University Entrance Exam and completed Upper 6th Form. This time the Islands Education officer told me that I should go into tropical agriculture. I'd had enough and came home to Samoa. If I dropped my scholarship and didn't serve the government a minimum of 5 years, my father would have to pav back 600 pounds. I wasn't about to see my father enslaved so I went to work tor the Legislative Department. It's now 33 years later and I'm still serving my 5 years. I've been in my government's service throughout all the constitutional and government changes that led to our independence. I wouldn't give up these experiences for anything, not even a university training. In 1980, the Prime Minister asked me if I'd be prepared to go to New Zealand as our High Commissioner (Ambassador). He gave me 3 days to make up my mind. I talked it over with my wife and family, for we had 9 children. I accepted and have been in the diplomatic corps ever since. When, in 1985 the government set up a Samoan Embassy in Belgium and a Mission to the European Economic Community I was made Ambassador. Since then the post has been expanded to include accreditation to Germany, Italy, France, Great Britain and Switzerland. In all of this the high point has been my family's support in making our mission to Europe a success. I feel most blessed that even tnough my children have been away from Samoa since 1980 they are Samoan in their caring and sharing for our homeland and people.

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Eletise T. Suluvale: Tropical Agriculture. Wangeningen, The Netherlands

Anna Muller: Travel Agent. Zurich, Switzerland

Stephan Funck: Soldier in the German Army. Limburgerhof, Germany

Although born in Fiji I am of Samoan and Swiss parents — Adele Kopie Purcell of Aleipata and Fred Muller. My sister Kalo was born in 1931 and I, Anna Muller, was born in 1932. We left Fiji for Switzerland in 1948 and I have lived here ever since. My sister and I were first sent to our father's brother in Zug, where our Muller and Rost family tree dates back to 1554 and there are portraits of each direct heir to the line. From Zug we went to our father's sisters — Kalo to a finishing school in Basel and I to Berne. After attending Seminar in Berne and learning German and French I did a 3 year apprenticeship in an Import and Export firm combined with a commercial scnool. My first job was with a travel office in Zurich in 1954 and I'm still here. Thanks to the firm, after being away for 10 years, I was able to take my first trip back home in 1958. My return visit to Samoa was by sea plane. In 1962 my mother, brother Philipp and I travelled on the 'Matua' from Suva to Apia for Samoa's Independence celebrations. Since then I have returned on holidays every third year until 1974 when I decided I wanted to go each year. We had our family reunion in Apia in 1980 with my 4 brothers; Francis (now in Auckland with a family of 8), Philipp (then in Apia, now in Honiara, Solomon Islands, with a family of 5), Paul (in Melbourne with a family of 2) and Peter (in Fiji), as well as my sister Kalo, her daughter Yvonne, and my mother and I. This was after a Purcell family gathering in Auckland where we had to hire a church hall to accommodate the whole crowd. At times I feel like Samoa's unofficial consulate in Switzerland. I have entertained visitors from all over the world. Being an affiliated member of the Marist Brothers, New Zealand Province, brings many Marist Brothers en route to either their mother house in Rome or to the Second Novitiate in Fribourg, Switzerland. Recently a few Brothers from Samoa, as well as priests and nuns, stopped by. It was like being home again. It is wonderful to be in touch with the South Seas.

My name is Stephan Funck. My father, Martin Funck is German and my mother, Florence Rasmussen, is Samoan and comes from Apia, Upolu. I was born on April 26,1966 at Ingleheim Rhine, Germany, and brought up with both a German and a Samoan background. I went to German schools and was taught about German history, literature and philosophies, which I believe can't have missed their effect on me altogether. On the other hand I've spent almost half of my life in Indonesia, where I had a chance to visit Asia and tne Pacific and where I met people from many different cultures. We had a lot of visitors at home, many of them our Samoan relatives. That which appealed to me most about them, was their open, unsophisticated, very friendly and above all humorous approach to strangers, places and maybe even life in general. It is something I want to try to adopt, although it stands in strong contrast to the commonly acknowledged 'German' character of soberness, thoroughness and scepticism, which in spite of its problems appeals to me as well. I've grown up with the contrast between these two opposites and I think that has been a privilege. By contrasting them, their positive and negative sides show up. I'm still very young and just on the edge ot starting my own life, taking up responsibility for myself, choosing my profession (I expect to take up the study of law), sorting out my personal beliefs and finding my own 'style'. I'm grateful for my part-Samoan background which naturally plays a role in all of this. I will always visit Samoa to freshen up impressions ana above all stay in contact with the "otner" part of my family, my "aiga", whose company I enjoy so much. It is comforting to know, that I have another 'home' to go to. I feel proud and privileged to De Samoan. Though I may not look like one, I'm a very emotional person. All my life I've felt the need to be more rational and that is what I'm working on most of the time, though I'm not willing to lose my humor, which is a guarantee for a fulfilling life. Sometimes I think the conflict between my "emotional" and my "rational" sides stems from my mixed heritage. Although German is my motner tongue and I'm living in Germany, I don't feel typically "German". On the other side I feel even less typically "Samoan". All of this has left me in somewhat of a mess when trying to construct a typical rational mentality. I feel myself very much in the making. At the moment (because of my German nationality) I am serving 15 months in the German army and have found it a most interesting experience, studying my comrades and myself under physical and psychological strain. Though soft-spoken at school, an obstinate side of me has surfaced in the army where I've found it almost impossible to pay all the formal respect to superiors, who in my opinion have done little if anything to "earn" it. Sometimes I dream of an army career like my ancestors, my great great grandfather fought with Napoleon and was given a medal. I would like to handle things and people the way they should be, not the way they are at present. I feel depressed when I see all the negative effects army life has on my comrades. What appeals to me more is the study of law. I hope to acquire the skill to work methodically and thoroughly, to sort and bring into relation masses of information and tnus to solve a problem. At the same time I don't want to lose my sense of humor and I want to develop an open, whole-hearted approach to life. These may collide with the skills that I want to obtain, but I'm not going to give up any ot the three. It is hard to describe.

I was bom at Moata'a, Apia, Upolu, in 1952. My father was Tafeamali'i Suluvale Ta'auta of Moata'a. He was a gifted and well-known musician and bandleader. He trained many village church choirs and choir masters, and alone is responsible for whatever musical talents I may have developed. He died in February, 1983. My mother is Saisulama Aufotu Sa'afiga of Aunu'u, Tutuila. My education was at Moata'a Primary School, Leifiifi Intermediate School, Samoa College and the University of New Zealand. Most recently I attended the University of the Netherlands on a separate Government Scholarship. A school teacher by profession, I taught at Samoa College, Vaivase (19771980) and Church College, Pesega (1981-1983). I have been employed by The National University of Samoa as a Chemistry Lecturer/Tutor since its establishment in 1984. I hope to work for a few more years and one day I would like to continue my family's tradition of being a churcn choir master. Hopefully I will get the chance to study towards a degree in music and become an accomplished musician.

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Above all I know that all will fail if I don't find a way to live closely with my Creator. On the one hand I feel very secure in God's hands, I know I'm very much allowed to make mistakes. On the other hand there is so much to learn and at the same time I have to start living on my own in a world that looks like a dog-eat-dog world. I'm not sure where exactly I'm going. All the philosophies I was introduced to in school have rather served to make me unsure, instead of being a help. But all of this dark "brooding" takes up only part of my time. The other part enjoys living very much. The Samoan in me? Author's Note: Stephan is quite a dedicated and extraordinary young man. Each week he prays for a different political prisoner in the communist bloc and in the past has smuggled Bibles behind the Iron Curtain.

Page 80 Bottom Sapati Petana: Brewmaster. Munchen, Germany I was born on the 6th of March, 1960, the first son of 5 children, 2 older sisters and 2 younger brothers. My mother, Suia-mai-Faleto'ese Matatumua is from Mulinu'u, Upolu, and father, Utumataiona Falevi Petana is from Moata'a, Upolu. They married in 1952 and moved to the newly settled village of Vaivase. As a young boy I remember going to the Pastor's and Sunday School at Moata'a. The village of Vaivase had just started growing. Its first church was a big Samoan fale. It was some years later that I attended the Pastor's and Sunday School at Vaivase under Rev. Vavae Toma. When I think back on the times I acted out a Bible story or recited a verse on White Sunday, it makes me happy to see my sister's and brothers' children doing the same thing today, and still with Rev. Toma. The first school I went to was Vaivase Primary. Each day my school uniform was ready, properly ironed and starched. In those days the best entertainment, apart from sports, was Sakaria's Mobile Movie Unit, a mobile van from the Education Department that went from school to school showing educational films. Lots of times there was also a Western or a cartoon. Since outside villages didn't have electricity, the projector was run by the van's generator. The whole unit was driven and operated by Sakaria Tanielu, the village children's hero. I later attended Leifiifi Intermediate School. In Form One I was put in the accelerated class. Then in the Second Form, I was selected Head Prefect. It was my job to see that the school rules were obeyed. Only English was allowed. To think of it, it was funny for one Samoan to punish another for using our native tongue. I completed schooling at Samoa College. Those years were the happiest and most unforgettable of my life. At one point my oldest sister was my English teacher: I thought I was finished! How could I ever explain away or excuse incomplete homework when she knew I had watched TV the whole evening? Towards the end of my years at Samoa College I was still not sure what I wanted to do. I was offered a government scholarship to study in Lae, Papua New Guinea, as well as a private scholarship for an apprenticeship in Marburg, West Germany. Although I wanted to be with my Samoan friends in Lae, I was overruled by my parents who wanted me to go to Germany. "E sili le usita'i i ga'o o mamoe po'a" (Obedience is better than the fat of the lamb). I decided to go to Germany and not hurt my parents' feelings. I was scared as this was my first time away from home. I didn't know a single word of German, and worst of all, I had to stay there for 3 years straight.

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I'll never forget the introduction to my Practical Training as a butcher. I was handed a brush and told to clean the whole sewerage channel. I kept my pride and did the job without a word. I wanted to show now a Samoan can clean. For that job I was made the supervisor! " 0 le ala i le Matai o le Tautua" (The way to become a chief is through service). Even though I got used to the German rhythm of work, I couldn't stand the bitter cold winters. One day I said to myself, "That's it, I quit!" I wrote a letter to my family that I was coming home. The next morning, I awoke earlier than usual, about 5 a.m. I looked out. It was still dark. The snow was three feet deep and the temperature five below zero. I saw an old woman, about sixty, already on the way to work! She was the cleaning woman for our hostel. I thought to myself, if tnis old woman can come to work so early in the cold then I should be able to do the same. I threw my letter away and finished my apprenticeship. Three years later I came home to Samoa and started a family business. After one year my friend David Reed and I decided to join the Western Samoa Brewery. Together we became brewmaster trainees and 3 years later we were sent to Doemens Technical School in Munchen, West Germany, to complete our training as brewmasters. I guess I got the chance because I'd had some German working experience and could speak the language fluently. My parents' advice was right after all. I've gained a lot. I can speak perfect German. Together with my friend David we've become the first Samoan brewmasters. I have a lot of German friends and have even been able to improve my piano playing. In Germany I attended concerts of some of the world's greatest artists of classical and modern music. I've been able to travel around the world visiting a lot of countries. I've seen the waste, pollution and disadvantage of living in an industrial country. I am so happy to live in my small country. I love our beautiful islands and our way of life, tne Samoan way.

Page 81 Right Sgt. Talofa Misiaita luta: U.S. Army. Berlin, Germany I was born on the 16th of June, 1960 in lliili, Tutuila. My father is Misiaita luta of Ofu, Manu'a and my mother Penina Pele of Nofoali'i, Upolu. When I was little I remember working on my speech for White Sunday. The pastor was there and the whole congregation, all my relatives. We each had to get up and talk. My parents were out front waiting. If I didn't do it, no ice cream. In those days ice cream was hard to get. We had to make our own. Well I survived, grew up and attended Lupelele Elementary School. I guess I always liked to live dangerously. One day while playing baseball I got so angry I picked up the base and tnrew it. Unfortunately the teacner was hit. That night my parents and I had a long talk, verbal and physical. It was the end of my base throwing. I attended Leone High School. Didn't do too well academically but started on the football team. We took the championship three years in a row. I graduated in 1978 and attended the Community College and worked at the Division of Weights and Measures. One day my older brother stopped by. He was in the army and suggested that I take the test. I passed and when I got home my auntie told me that the recruiter wanted to see me. Mom and dad found out and weren't too happy. They wanted me to stay home. I wanted to go. Eventually they agreed.

Basic training at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas was a different world. Everywhere I went there were people yelling, ordering me around. They were after you all the time. I wondered what I was doing there but it had been my decision and I stuck with it. The last week of Basic, I got 10 letters at mail call. They were my first letters from my parents, from Samoa. I cried right there in front of the whole platoon. I thanked God I'd finished Basic and heard from my family. While I was in school my girlfriend Vaimasina Tunupopo called me on my birthday. She came to Kansas for a visit. A month later we were married. I graduated and received orders for Germany. I was nervous and worried. Everything I knew about Germany had come from World War II movies where everyone was crazy. I arrived and kept to myself. One day, very lonely and homesick, I went to the gym. I met another Samoan and boom, my world was OK. I enrolled in a leadership course, graduated and made Sergeant with responsibility for others as well as myself. Being promoted was great but the greatest feeling was that day I met a fellow Samoan. Whenever I look at the wall that divides Berlin I think of what I'm doing here, protecting this island of freedom behind the Iron Curtain. I'm proud that this Samoan can help.

Page 82 Capt. Viggo James Rasmussen: U.S. Army. Russelsheim, Germany This is a brief story of my nomadic life. The birth, the early years and education, the migration, the return home and becoming a man, the big decision to join Uncle Sam's Army, and the experience in the Military and journey to "foreign soils". I was born in Apia, Upolu on April 21,1949, the 5th of 16 children! My Dad, George U. Rasmussen s great great grandfather came from Denmark. My Mom, Luma Rasmussen is Samoan. My early education was in Vailu'utai, and Fasito'otai two rural villages outside of Apia, on the island of Upolu. Later on my family moved to town where I completed my elementary education at Apia Primary, Leifiifi Intermediate, and Samoa College (like high school in the States). After graduation I taught as a Samoan/English tutor for the Peace Corps for one year. The following year, under a Worla Health Organization (WHO) fellowship, I went to the University of the South Pacific, Fiji School of Medicine. In 19751 returned to Upolu and then crossed over to Tutuila where I married Tamali'i A. Letuligasenoa. The following year I was accidentally recruited into the US Army. Anyway, with all my education I left the islands for the 'mainland' and Basic Training at Fort Dix, NJ. As a private (E-1) I worked hard and was promoted to Private (E-2). I left NJ and went to Fort Lee, Virginia for my Advanced Individual Training (AIT). I graduated as the Distinguished Graduate of my class and was given an accelerated promotion to Private First Class (PFC). I left Virginia and went to Samoa to bring my family to the States. In 1977,1 was assigned to COSCOM Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and 3 weeks later reassigned to the 82nd Airborne Division, NC. Following Airborne School and PLC (Primary Leadership School), I was promoted to Sergeant (E-5). Instead of leaving the Militaiy when my 3 year contract was completed, I applied to and was accepted for Officer Candidate School (O.C.S.) at [ >

Page 84 Right Fort Benning, Georgia. I graduated as a 2nd Lieutenant and was assigned to Fort Eustis, VA for my Basic Officer Course. After graduation I stayed on for 3 years. Later I attended the Officer Advanced Course at Fort Eustis. After graduating I went to night school, took college courses and earned my BA degree. In 1984,1 was promoted to Captain and assigned to Germany. I am still here in Mainz, and working in the 106th Transportation Battalion in Russelsheim. My wife Tamali'i, ana son Viggo were born in Tutuila, Jonathan was born in North Carolina, and Elijah and our daughter Avasa were born in Virginia. In all my travels in the Military, my family has accompanied me everywhere. They are very supportive. I am proud of being what I am, a Samoan and a soldier in the American Army. I treasure my roots. As long as I live, I will teach Samoan to my children and teach them their heritage ana their culture. Where I am and how I got so far away from home is not my doing but through God's guidance. Never a decision in my life nor a move made, to another country without asking God in prayer for His will. In all my endeavours, I have always placed God first. I believe that without His guidance and blessing nothing will succeed. My prayers and closing remarks for Samoa are: put Goa first ana revere Him like our great forefathers, and He will bless Samoa for Samoa is founded on God. Hold true to that foundation Samoa, and don't substitute it for material things that will perish.

Ana Hjarnoe: Master Weaver. Ribe, Denmark Many years ago my husband came back from a summer journey to the north telling me that for one month he had not seen the sun go down. Daylight, sunshine 24 hours a day! First I thought: "He is pulling my leg." Then I realized: "He wasn't!" He explained. I was able to understand, but — coming from Samoa where day and night are always of almost equal length — I couldn't really believe him. Next summer we both went north. Not to Greenland, where he had been, but to Lapland, the very north of Europe, the country of the midnight-sun. Hour after hour the train moved north through Sweden and finally we came to the top. It was 10 p.m. and the sun was shining. We walked along the trail through mountains covered with grass and heather. (No trees — it is too cold and dark in the winter.) Midnight passed. The sun was still shining, and it kept on throughout the night. One long day lasting weeks. I was born on the 14th of July, 1943 in the village of Vaiusu, on the island of Upolu. My father is Ipiniu Lava, and my mother Akenese, both from Vaiusu. We were 3 sisters and 3 brothers plus 2 more brothers and one more sister by adoption. I am the second oldest. Of the 9, only one brother, Nito, and one sister, Vavae, have remained in Samoa. Lina, Fipe, Ipiniu, Oneone, Feleti and Smole have settled in New Zealand, and I — right on the other side of the world — in Denmark. I attended St Mary's School up to Form IV. In 19601 went to New Zealand to work, and I got a job in the laundry of an Auckland hospital. Then in 19641 met a Dane at a dance. We married and went south to Dunedin, where my husband got a job at the Otago Museum. We lived there for a year, and then we went to Denmark. At first we stayed in a small town with my parents-in-law, but moved to Copenhagen when my husband began to study at the University. He worked at the post office at night. I didn't speak Danish and without the language the opportunity for getting an interesting job is very limited. What can you do without speaking the local tongue. You can become a craftsman — a potter, a weaver, a carver etc. If you have good eyes and a pair of nimble hanas, language is not that important. I became an Apprentice to a Master Weaver. I was taught all the skills of manipulating a handloom and learned to collect plants and make dyes. I wove rugs, tablecloths, linen, and materials for dressmaking, furniture and curtains. I even participated in making a rug which the Women's Committee of Denmark presented to Her Royal Highness The Queen of Denmark. I was an Apprentice for 3 years, and then worked as a Journeyman for another Master. Finally I became a Master Weaver, set up my own workshop and produced fabrics. But it is difficult to make a good living as a craftsman in an age of machines. You either learn to work with the machines or you starve to death. I chose detente and became a designer for a textile factory. Machines do not think. They can't design new patterns, but a person with a small handloom can. That is what I did. Some of my patterns were accepted for production and have been exported. Curtains with patterns I designed are found in the Australian Parliament. And fabrics with my patterns have been exported to Hawaii, Canada, New York, Washington, Australia and to most countries in Europe. Some can even be found in Samoa for I made some on my loom while staying in Vaiusu in 1972-73.

I've been in Denmark over 20 years and now live on a farm in the oldest town of Scandinavia, Ribe. I have 3 children Moana, Lulu, and Tuala. I also take care of some goats, cows, pigs, one rabbit, and one dog. I recently took a General certificate of Education and am now going to College where I study in the same field. Next year I hope to complete my studies ana teach preschool children. I still have my loom Dut time is scarce and I don't produce much. Next year, hopefully, I can use my skill inspiring children to spin, weave, dye and make all sorts of materials by hand. It is only when you master a craft that you really know the difference between rubbish and quality. It's a lot like life.

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Pule (Sammy) Stewart: Harbour Master Trainee. Malmo, Sweden

Sau loka Eian: Homemaker. Sandefjord, Norway

I was born at Leulumoega, Upolu, on the 20th of March, 1944. Mv father is Apoua Setefano of Fasito'o tai and my mother Lillian Stewart of Afega, from the same island of Upolu. When I was about 9 an uncle and I were fishing. The tide was so low that the fish were caught in small pools. We walked across the lagoon pulling our canoe. All of a sudden I heard a roar, looked towards the reef and saw a huge wave coming. I ran and could hear the people on the beach shouting. I made it just in time but was in bed for a week from fright. I guess Samoans don't like to let things frighten them because I've spent most of my adult life working with the sea. I attended the Sister's school at Leulumoega and sat the test for the Marist Brothers school in Apia. I joined the scouts and in 1962 the Mother in charge chose me to lead our troop at the Independence ceremonies. I'll never forget how proud I felt when our scoutmaster said "Eyes right" and the Joint Heads of State lowered the New Zealand flag and raised ours. We were the first independent nation in the South Pacific. When I was 171 went to New Zealand. It was a new world. I worked just about every job there was. In a shoe factory, at a tannery, in a tire factory, at an automobile assembly plant, as a telephone linesman. It was a wild time in my life. There was no one to control me, no father or mother, no matai (chief). I just did what I wanted to when I wanted to. Somehow I survived and came home. A friend of mine, Peter Smith, worked on the Thor Line and wanted me to come with him. I started as a deck boy, washing down the deck, making beds and cleaning toilets and worked my way up to Able Body Seaman. Then in 19731 won a scholarship to Fiji for training as a 3rd Mate. I returned to Samoa and worked for the Marine Department butleft over a dispute with my boss. I approached the Harbour Master in 1977 about sitting the pilots exam so that I could sail small boats between Upolu and Savai'i. I passed and was made captain of the Limu Limu Tau. There was an accident and I decided to give up the sea. I left Samoa for the States and worked in LA but my heart was back home. My father had died and my mother was alone. I brought 2 brothers to the States, but after they were settled, I came home to look after my mother. In 1979, Samoa Shipping Services was looking for a crew for the Forum Samoa. I was accepted, and started all over again as a deck hand. We flew to Germany to pick up the boat and sailed it home. I worked with that ship until 1981. That year I again approached the Harbour Master to ask if there were anything for me. They were looking for a pilot trainee but because of the paper work there wouldn't be any salary for 2 months. That was all right with me, I d be doing what I wanted to. Everytime a ship arrived I went out with the pilot to bring it in. On October 5,19821 was given my certificate of competency. In November the Harbour Master said, Since you are the newest pilot you have the honour of piloting the Royal Yacht Britannia." I'd achieved more than my goal. I attended a diploma course at the World Maritime University in Malmo, Sweden in 1983, returned home and was made Senior Pilot. Then in the middle of 19861 returned to Sweden for a 2 year course leading to a Masters Degree in General Maritime Administration. This is an incredible place. There are students from 72 countries studying here. It's a long way from Leulumoega and a wave that crashed over 30 years ago.

I am a real Samoan married to a Norwegian. I left Samoa on July 1972 and now live in Norway permanently. I was born at Afega, Upolu on 20 June, 1950, and was raised by my biological mother's sister, Fa auliuli and her husband, Rev. Toevai of Afega, Upolu. They were pastors for the L.M.S. at Solomona village for over 30 years. I attended Solomona School, then Aleisa Settlement School and then moved to Tuamasaga Secondary School because my parent's service was over. In 19651 went to Samoa College and lived with my aunt and uncle Taula Anesi for 4 years. They treated me as their own daughter, and their children became my sisters and brothers. After Samoa College I took small jobs at Caruthers and the Savalalo Grand in Apia, and then movea to Pago Pago to look for better work. I was there for a year but couldn't get a job because of my papers. I moved back to Apia and finally found employment at Burns Philp in tne Accounting Department. The company is the agent of the Thor Line and one day they asked me if I could help out with one of tne voyages. I took the job. My parents weren't happy but I so wanted to see the outside world. I took the chance and it was a good experience. I will never regret what I did and I'm sure my family are happy about it now. On the boat I met my husband, Are. We travelled together, working on the boat for 8 years, saving our money for a home. We are now settled here in Sandefjord, Norway. I stay at home now taking care of our daughter Maryann, who is 20 months old. After 14 years, I've adjusted to a Norwegian way of life. Once in a while I really miss my Samoan culture, friends and family. This is especially true when the summer ends and the days grow short, or whenever there is some difficulty and no extended Samoan family to turn to. I've made an umu (ground oven) on the edge of the fjord. My Samoan friend in Denmark, Anna,lives on a farm and raises pigs. Every now and then we have a feast — Samoa in the midnight sun!

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Page 86 Right Nerony Mefiposeta Skelton: Engineer. Norway I was born on April 19,1961 in Auckland, New Zealand. Both of my parents are Samoan. My father is from the village of Aleisa, Upolu and my mum is from the village of Afega, on the same island. I was raised up in the customs of my people like most Samoans born in New Zealand. There are a lot of ways you can lead your life but knowing your identity is the most important to me. At the age of eight I went home to Samoa for 4 years. There I attended Apia Primary and Leifiifi Intermediate School. The education system was very good, but what struck me most was the respect the young people show their elders and the unity of the family. I returned to New Zealand 4 years later and completed my education. I worked several jobs until I started engineering. Once I had done that my life turned around and I faced up to the rest of the world, the world beyond what I knew. I found that I had to prepare myself for the unexpected. I don't mean you put aside what you've learned about your parent's background and your own identity, you always keep that and remember it well. What I am referring to is being able to maintain a balance outside the Samoan tradition.

The years rolled by and I met a girl from Norway who was in New Zealand on holiday. We got together, but after a while she went back to her home country. I told her I would leave my homeland to go to Norway and begin a new life witn her. Once again there was change in my life. This wasn't like going to Samoa from New Zealand. This was going to the other side of the globe. My emotions were sad, happy, frightened and challenged all mixed up in one great feeling inside. Now, a year has gone by and my girlfriend and I are happy with our 2 children. Life is very different to what I was used to back home, but I ve adapted to it. I work for an engineering company in Norway and I like it very much. I've had an opportunity to construct some entirely new machines. But most of all I've been ame to adapt to a new way of life while retaining who I am, one of Samoa's people living at the top end of Europe.

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Neroni Slade: International Law. Commonwealth Secretariat. London, England I was born in Apia, Matafele Fou on April 8th, 1941. My father was Tuiloma Liuvao of Sapunaoa, Falealili, Upolu and my mother Jane Bahn Tafaiona of Vaiola, Upolu. My earliest memories were wondering where I was going next. My father was a trader and there was a lot of movement, different villages, new people, a constant change of environment. I became very much a loner. Eventually I stayed with my grandfather Rev. Mavaega at Matafele Fou in Apia. He was a wonderful old man, handsome and highly disciplined. Each day, in the early hours, he did calesthenics before morning prayers. Once he made me sleep in the church by myself so that I'd be alone with God. He taught me to believe in myself and to prepare for life. He's the only person I can remember rewarding me as a child for making a speech or doing complicated calculations in my head. In 19581 entered Samoa College. Thanks to my grandfather I was a very committed student. I did well in the classroom and on the rugby field. My second year I was made Head Prefect. Then in 19601 was sent to New Zealand for university preparation at Wanganui College and entered Victoria University, Wellington in 1961. There was a lot to adjust to. To a palagi (European), education is simply getting a degree. For an islander it represents overcoming a lot of obstacles, social as well as academic. The first few years were years of adjustment. But it became a challenge that I had to overcome. If I dian't succeed I wasn't only letting myself down but Samoa and a grandfather who had taught me that there wasn t anything that couldn't be achieved. I returned to Samoa in 1978 with a L.L.B. degree. I had passed the New Zealand bar and had even practised for several years before coming home. I was among the first crop of qualified lawyers and a lot was expected of us. I really cut my legal teeth practising in Samoa. I was allowed to perform many responsible legal assignments without supervision. I had to rely on my own judgment, something my grandfather had taught me. I stayed on in government for 8 years. In 19761 was made Attorney General, trie first Samoan to hold that position in Western Samoa. During this time I was twice acting Chief Justice. Being Attorney General meant assuming many onerous duties. As the chief legal officer I had to advise the Head of State and Parliament. It was a time when some fundamental constitutional questions were raised; the rights of untitled people to have a voice in Parliament, the basic issues of public servants striking. It was an excellent training ground as a lawyer and as an individual. Inevitably I looked for the next hill ana it was outside oi Samoa. Legal work with a wider application brought me to the Commonwealth Secretariat in London. My work here gives me a wider perspective into the development of law and legal institutions for the South Pacific as a whole. Over the past few years I've been concerned with the annual consultations of the Attornies General of the Pacific, development of legal training in the region, training of judges, regional publications, legislative drafting, etc. We have made great improvements in developing legal resources for small states particularly in training. Coming from a small state means that you have to work harder to have your views acknowledged. It is up to each of us to make the Samoan viewpoint heard for Samoa does nave a contribution to make in the affairs of the world.

South America Brazil Peru Guyana Colombia

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Robert Filo Niko: Missionary, Campo Grande, Brazil My story begins on March 4,1966 in the small village of Utulei, Tutuila. I was born on that day the seventh of eight children to Mateaki Jevita Niko and Lili Suapaia. The first three years of my life were spent in the village of Mapusaga Fou. When I was about three, my fatner left for the mainland U.S.A. in search of a better life for us all. He quickly became impressed with the great land of opportunity and sent for our family. I was very young when I left Samoa, so I do not remember much about my native land. But I have learned many things through my family. They tell stories of how it was back home and taught me the traditions and heritage of our forefathers. There is a story that I loved to hear. My father would tell it to me. There is a very small island off the coast called Nu'ulua. This little island was owned by the Purcell family, of which I am a descendant. On the island there are only goats, "oti". Each day the Purcells would go and feed the flock and one day, a member of the family wrote a sons. It is called "Sivaole oti". The song became so popular, that the family cnoir was named "Aufaipese ole oti . I for one love music, play the piano, the clarinet and a little ukulele. Music has a way of calming my mind. It also brings love and harmony to those around. One of the greatest influences in my life is my church: The church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. My church strongly believes in the family unit. It has helped us to maintain our Samoan culture ana our family strength. I am now serving as a full-time missionary in the Brazil Campinas Mission. During these two years of my life I try to help and to understand the people of Brazil. They are very warm, heartful and loving to the message that I as a missionary give them. I meet many different and wonderful people here. I am dark-skinned, and the Brazilians think I am from the State of Bahia. I get to explain the things I know about Samoa and even speak my language to them. At times when I'm among friends here they introduce me to tneir friends as an "Americano falsificado" meaning an imitation American, because I was born in Samoa and went to the U.S.A. Working as a missionary, I have had the opportunity to improve the lives of many people by helping them to come closer to our Heavenly Father. My Church nas brought much happiness and peace into my life. I'm proud to be a Samoan, to know of my heritage and to be a part of it. It has helped me to understand my value, as a person, my heritage, and my life. And it has enabled me to touch other peoples lives through the love and happiness and respect that I as a Samoan was taught to show to others.

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Page 93 Left and Right Sister Vitolia: Catholic Nun. Lima, Peru Air Argentina taxied in slowly towards the terminal at Faucett Airport, Lima, Peru at 1 a.m. It was already April 1, the most hallowed day of All Fools, in the year of Our Lord 1987. An auspicious day indeed, I thought. The events that soon followed had me wondering anew about this celebrated day of clowns and practical jokers. We had not gone far when the taxi was stopped and uniformed men armed with machine guns spoke some 'unintelligible' words and papers were handed over. These were looked at. Then we in turn got peered at. Ana I, from my back seat watched with a growing sense of uneasiness. Then a stiff nod ana a wave-off sent us off once more on our way. Thus was I formally introduced to Peru. ' Lima is in a state of emergency. Curfew is from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. and you have arrived during curfew." Well, wnat an extraordinary piece of information this! I myself am no stranger to curfews. This is when the village gong is struck each evening and everyone goes to his or her own fale (home) for the lotu afiafi (evening prayers), but this is curfew? It must be all part of having arrived with clowns and no one telling me that Peru has a different kind of curfew. Why am I here, ana breaking curfew? In 1986 when in Rome for a spiritual renewal course, I was assigned to work here by my Congregation. Previous to this, I taught at St Mary's College, Vaimoso, from 1981 to 1985, the last 2 years as principal. These were interesting and challenging times. In a school situation the notion of 'time-passing' is an experience rather than a metaphysical preoccupation. Those generations of girls pass through and are gone in 5 years. The growth process from timid third formers to rebellious fourth formers, uncertain firth formers and confident sixth formers, is a marvel to witness and a joy to experience. St Mary s is special for yet another reason. I was of another generation that went through its doors from 1964 to 1968. At our last year of school while my classmates filled out forms for scholarships, I was filling mine out to enter the Missionary Marist Sisters' novitiate in New Zealand. For I wanted to become a nun, but first I must get the permission of my parents. We lived in Fasito'otai, where I was born on December 22nd, named after the saint of the 23rd - Vitolia Katalina, and baptized on the 24th. It was 1948. My father's name is Tu'uaipea. He was born at Iva, Savai'i but his title Mo'a is from Fasito'otai. My mother was Tina Valelia. She was born in Falese'ela. I grew up in Fasito'otai and went to St )oan of Arc School at Leulumoega. From a very Samoan upbringing I imbibed a deep respect of my Samoan culture. And from Catholic parents I gained Christian values and principles. But I have digressed a little. I was to seek permission of my parents. This was a close encounter of a definite kind. Even to these very Catholic parents it was like announcing a calamity. The idea, I suppose of losing me to a 'nunnery' was somewhat harcfto bear. It the truth be known, there were moments too when the very idea threatened the soundness of my wits! But at last I received permission and a blessing. And why did I become a nun? Many times I get asked this question, and always I detect curiosity, or bafflement or a touch of pity. Poor thing you know? Whatever went wrong? Sometimes people say, how lucky you are to be a nun. You live problem free! The astounding thing as far as I can observe is, very few people seem to prefer this 'problem free existence'. But I'm running the risk of digressing again. I don t think becoming a nun is anything extraordinary. For why do most of us choose one profession and not another? Why be a doctor and not a photographer? It's a knowledge. A commitment. A calling. I don't have any ideas as to why I wanted to become a nun. I only know that it was to be this way, and

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no other way for me. What is extraordinary about it is what God chooses to do with a person's life. So now I'm in Peru as a member of the Missionary Marist Congregation. I have lived and worked in New Zealand while studying at Auckland University, but mostly I worked in Samoa. Peru is vast and geographically divided into 3 parts: la costa — the coast which is desert, the Sierra — the Andes Mountains and the Selva — the Amazon jungle. There are 20 million people of which 7 to 8 million live in Lima, the capital city. The official languages are Spanish and Quechua. Since arriving I have spent time learning Spanish. While awaiting my assignment, I worked for a month at El Agustino, one of the poorest areas of Lima. Four Jesuit priests tend this parish of an estimated 94,000 people. Built on the bare mountains the houses, each with 3 or 4 families, are perched precariously on each other with steep and narrow winding steps between them. There is no water, no lights, no sanitary facilities. The list coula go on indefinitely. Lack of work, inactivity and boredom Dreed delinquency and drugs become a commodity of surviving and escaping the miserable realities. One fascinating aspect of El Agustino is the parish centre which is set up as a social service department, and is operated entirely by lay people. All the social services are programmed and coordinated from here: medical and health care services, legal consultations, community kitchens, women's development programmes, road works and sewage works, youth, drug prevention programmes, photography and tape recording facilities tor educational purposes and more. To maintain these, the Jesuits rely on funds from all over the world. For a month I worked 2 days cooking at a communal kitchen and 2 days at a drug prevention programme. Tne purpose of these communal kitchens is to provide the poorest of families with at least one decent meal a day at a very low price. The drug prevention programme is designed to build wholesome and strong characters, a real sense of personal wortn as well as an awareness of one's communal responsibilities. The hope is that having built these young people up, they will be better equipped to resist the all too easy path of drugs. I've learned so much and I still have so much to learn here. To be part of this Church of Latin America so steeped in the struggle for justice, for the poor and the nameless. To work here is to learn to live in the midst of abject poverty, oppression, and violence. Out of this one must learn to understand Liberation Tneology and all that signifies, announcing the Good News to the poor. Ten months in Peru seems like a lifetime and Samoa light years away when daily faced with the harsh and relentless reality of millions of people struggling for a human and dignified existence. But it is precisely because they live on the edge of survival that there will always be life. It is here that we often see the quality of living, and in spite of their degrading circumstances, dignity and hope. For my part, I am grateful to the Lord to be here.

Le Mamea Ropati Mualia: Minister of Education. Apia, Upolu, Samoa

Photo in Georgetown, Guyana

I was born on September 1st, 1945 in Apia, Upolu. My father was Taofiga Mualia Tuiletufuga of Apia and my mother, Folototo Leuta of Taelefaga, Fagaloa on the same island. My first 5 years were spent in Salani. In 1953 my mother became very ill and so we moved to Apia to be closer to the hospital. We had a very modest home, a small Samoan fale (traditional structure). We slept on one side and cooked and ate on the other. In Samoa the traditional pattern is for food to be prepared in a different structure entirely. Living in Apia represented a big change. My father worked at the wharf and my mother started a small elei (tapa print) fabric business at home. She also used to take our food safe to the market and sell pancakes and tea. I'd get up at 5 a.m. and help my parents cook the pancakes and prepare the tea before leaving for school. We were poor but we made it. In 19611 passed the entrance exam for Samoa College. Mine was the last name on the list and I started in the lowest class. My parents worked so hard to earn my school fees the least I could do was to achieve something. At the end of the next year I came first in the 4th Form examinations and won a scholarship offered by Mr Stewart of PDL Industries N.Z. The scholarship paid my tuition as well as my room and board at the Samoa College Hotel. In 19651 was awarded another scholarship. This took me to New Zealand. Before leaving my parents gave me a long talk about hard work and encouraged me to do my Dest. I was posted to Wanganui Boy's College and found that it was very different to mix with palagi (European) spelling. There is a big difference between palagi and Samoan children. Many were immature, not really that interested in education and looked down on Samoans. I graduated and went on to Otago University where I studied pharmacy. In 19701 married Elisa Fagalilo, a nurse at the Dunedin Public Hospital and completed my degree in Pharmacy. The following year I worked as the Chief Pharmacist at the Cherry Hill Hospital, Otago. I'd been away from Samoa for 6 years but my parents encouragement and advice was with me the whole time. Wnen I came nome I learned from my relatives that for 6 years my parents had gone to church every morning to pray for my success at school. I m sure that a good part of what I achieved was due to their prayers. I worked for the government before setting up my own business, the Samoa Pharmacy, Ltd. In 19761 was given the title Le Mamea in Matautu, Lefaga. Three years later the village matais (chiefs) encouraged me to run for Parliament. I had the consensus of the village and was successful. In 19821 was appointed Minister of Lands and Survey, Labour and Broadcasting. The following year my portfolios were changed to Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, Culture and Labour and again in 19851 was given the same portfolios. In 1986 we developed an educational policy for the 1990's. It is a policy which from 1987 on will be based on an 8 year primary education, a 3 year junior secondary and a 2 year senior secondary education. Under the revised system more opportunities will be available for university education and white-collar jobs but agricultural, technical, commercial and industrial training will also be greatly expanded. We are a small country with limited natural resources. Our greatest resources are our culture and our people and that is what we hope to build on.

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Fetaui Mata'afa: Citizen of Samoa and the World Photo: Bogota, Colombia I was born at Mulinu'u, Upolu on the 23rd of June, 1928 to Le Mamea Mataumu Ata O.B.E. of Lefaga, Upolu, and Fa'alelei Masima Lupe from the same village. The eldest of 4 children, I grew up in Mulinu'u, the traditional capital of Upolu and Sava'i. My father was the Registrar of the Land and Titles Court. In those days the members of the Legislative Council were billeted in our homes. As children we would fan their food and massage them as is our custom. Living in Mulinu'u the seat of the N.Z./Samoan government (we were still ruled by N.Z. at that time) exposed us to the political life of the country at a very early age. When the government scholarship scheme began my sister and I sat the exam, passed and in 1945 we were sent to N.Z. to finish our secondary education. Wairarapa College was in a country setting which made for an easier transition from life in Samoa. I lived there for 4 years attending class during the week and going to Church on Sunday. In Church I came to know a farming family who nave remained my friends for life. After graduation I went to Ardmore Teachers Training College and taught in New Zealand for a year before I was asked to come home by our Samoan Scholarship Committee. In 19531 joined the staff of Samoa College. I was one of 4 Samoans teaching there at that time. I guess we were the pioneers. Up till then we had to rely on New Zealand. In 19561 married a paramount chief, Mata'afa Fiame Faumuina Mulinu'u II. The next year was momentous, for we were blessed with a daughter Salaevalu Naomi, and Mata'afa entered politics. He was elected to Parliament and appointed Minister of Agriculture. In 1959 when we entered the first stage of independence, he became Leader of Government Business. The following year the women of Western Samoa elected me president of the Women's Committees (now called the National Council of Women). In 19611 was sent as a delegate to the first meeting of the Churches and Missions of the South Pacific. Samoa was the only country with a woman representative. I was elected a member of the Continuation Committee and as such travelled all over the Pacific. It was the beginning of the ecumenical movement in Oceania. In 19711 was invited to chair the second assembly of the PCC in Fiji and again in Papua New Guinea in 1976.1 feel very privileged as a Samoan and as a woman to have taken part in all of this. During this period (in 1969) I was asked to become Pro Chancellor of the University of the South Pacific headquartered in Fiji and in February 1970 we received the Royal Charter from the Queen of England. While on a trip to Australia Her Majesty stopped in Fiji and presented me with the Charter. It was a great honour, but I'm getting way ahead of my story. Our political life became increasingly active as we moved towards full independence. I felt that to be fair to our children I should resign from teaching and expended all my energies at home. Then in 1962 we achieved independence and Mata'afa was chosen the first Prime Minister. He held that position until 1975 when he suddenly died. It was a tragic loss. There was a bye election. I stood and was elected to Parliament, finishing out his term. I ran again in 1976 and lost, was re-elected in 1979 and retired from politics in 1981. I still lead a very active life. In 1980, after serving some 20 years as president of the National Council of Women, I resigned. The women however turned around and elected me their General Secretary. For some time now I've been deeply involved with the Nestle Infant Formula Audit Commission — INFAC.

Nestle has made a committment to abide by the World Health Organization Code. Any allegations or complaints against the company come to our commission. My other current work is serving as the International Secretary for the Pan Pacific and Southeast Asia Women's Association and as the Pacific representative on the executive committee of the World Day of Prayer. I will go to Bogota, Columbia for a meeting in July. I feel truly privileged to be a part of all this. Samoa is not known by many people beyond the Pacific. Hopefully my participation in these committees ana conferences enables me to show that as Samoans we have a lot to offer — our warmth, our friendliness and our religious strength. My work and travel has enabled me to more fully appreciate the many blessings that we in Samoa have.

Central America and the Carribean Honduras Jamaica

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Page % Bottom Left Malouamaua (Afele) Tuiolosega: U.S. Army, Corporal. Jungle of Honduras I was born on February 16th, 1963 at the hospital in Utulei, Tutuila. My mother is Mereane Toluono of Vailoa, Palauli in Savai'i. My father is Puleisili, son of Puleisili Tuiolosega of Olosega, Manu'a, and Samitioata Mauga Moimoi of Pago Pago, Tutuila. Besides pastor's school in Malaeloa and Taputimu, I attended Leone Midkiff Elementary and graduated from Marist Brothers' High School at Malaeloa. After high school, I entered the U.S. Army Reserve as an Infantryman. This was never considered as my next move after school, but as a teenager confronted by limited options, the Army challenge presented new norizons and a feeling of excitement. So before I knew it, I was heading towards the boarding gate with a destination to somewhere in the U.S. of A. For the first time ever, I felt free and in full control of my life. I felt free to do whatever I wanted without worrying about the consequences. Little did I know that this would not last long. LooKing back on it now, it reminds me of a drunk, emotional coward who takes advantage of the power of Bacchus to express himself, without considering the outcome when the alcohol loses its strength. Military training was a real shock. I'm talking about having a total stranger (who's not even Samoan) yelling at your face and getting away with it. Anyway, I survived, mainly because of the knowledge that I was returning home after training. I was assigned to the 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry at Tafuna, Tutuila and was later reassigned as a Forward Observer or Scout to unit headquarters in Hawaii. During this period, I played countless war games and also participated in training exercises to Australia and New Zealand. With this experience, I was ready to rescue Persephone from Pluto and looked for a more exciting challenge. The elite Airborne Rangers offered the challenge. So after 2 years as a Reservist, I entered active duty and signed up for airborne training. However, I found that parachute jumping was not as much of a psychologicalchallenge as I'd expected. I clearly remember my first jump; the rigging-up stage, looking up to the sky before boarding the aircraft, standing at the door seconds before the jump, and looking up as I jumped. I was aware of the fact that this was not a normal event and tnat I was supposed to have fear. Ironically, I didn't. I was totally without emotion and aid not feel anything. At any rate, it was quite an experience. I'm not talking about the height or the view. I'm talking about the silence. It was as if all the violence in the world had suddenly ceased; it was so quiet, calm, and peaceful. The thrilling experience of floating in the air, however, was abruptly ended by the landing. It's like being tackled by someone twice your size or getting slammed against a brick wall; you float down at roughly 22 feet per second and nit the ground with great force. After earning my Ranger scroll, becoming an expert infantryman at a duty station in the U.S. tor a little over 1 year, I received orders for Germany. This assignment led me to tours and training exercises in Scotland, England, France, Holland, Belgium, Luxemburg, West Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. After 2 years in Europe, I was reassigned to the U.S. My service time includes training exercises in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Panama, Colombia, Haiti, and Honduras.

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As I walk patrol in the jungles of Central America, I sometimes ask myself what I'm doing nere. I'm constantly evaluating the situation and criticizing my moves at every step I take. I become a hunter who at the same time is at risk of becoming a prey. Fortunately, extensive and intensive military training allows me to effectively and confidently do my job. Jungle Survival, Sniper School, Demolition School, Amphibious Assault School, Escape and Evasion Course, Airborne School, Infantry School, Ranger Indoctrination, to name a few, are just some of the training I have had which gives me the many skills of a calculating, professional, fighting soldier. Underneath all of this is a Samoan who is proud to represent a modern version of the ancient Samoan warrior! Soifua.

Rev. Peniamina Vilita'i Vai: Clergyman. Chapelton, Jamaica I was born on May 30th, 1943 in the village of Vaiala, a mile to the east of Apia, our capital. My parents were Vaila'au Palea and Vaitofiga Ma'ilo both of Vaiala, Upolu. Being the eldest of 9 children, 5 boys and 4 girls, was confusing and trying. One has to live an exemplary life for the brothers and sisters to follow, but more so to please the parents and relatives. As a youngster, I lived with my uncle Ma'ilo Saipele and Moamoa, his wife. They helped me a great deal in the development of my life. I grew up in an atmosphere where competition was important. We were encouraged to be proud of our family, village and church; and to work hard to make a mark in the world. To be good and prominent in any competition not only gave satisfaction to one's priae, but it also generated a spirit of patriotism in the village. The Vaiala people nave always been sports fanatics. The name 'Ulalei carried forth by Vaiala s Samoan cricket team was prominent for a decade, and its rugby team acnieved similar distinction. Whenever a national team, especially rugby, was selected, there were more Vaiala players than any other club. Education was part of the competition. The pastor's school was of high value in teaching the Samoans how to read and write. Most parents had their schooling only at the level of the pastor's school. I remember my parents arguing who hadthe right pronunciation of words from one of my school reports which was written in English. Neither could speak a word of English. The Vaiala generations were encouraged also to be proud of their many men and women who served in the church as pastors and missionaries. We were always reminded of names like Sapolu, Enari, Senala, Bert and Aleni Williams, and many others. Even now, Vaiala still has more men and women than any other village in the ministry of the church. Young people were always told by their parents to enlist in the candidates class for membership of the church. I went to see Rev. Tanielu who was then, minister of Vaiala. I was surprised when he enquired, "Why do you want to be a member now?" In an uncertain way I responded, "I want to be a missionary in foreign lands." He was surprised that a 14 year old should talk mission work so early in life. He said, "I wisn you were going to Leulumoega Fou. It would prepare you to enter Malua as a faife'au (pastor)". Every year as far back as I can remember, we heard first hand reports from returning missionaries of the Congregational Church from Papua and other countries of the Pacific. I was fascinated by their testimonies and the challenges of the work they had encountered. And I was thrilled by the widening of the mission field work with the Aborigines in Australia, and Faitala Talapusi in England, and Nu'uausala Siaosi in Zambia. That was the end of it. At least for the time being. I was involved in another form of competition. I had won a place at Samoa College. Parents were encouraging children to endeavour to win a government scholarship to New Zealand and Samoa College sent more students on scholarships than any other school. I had the right choice, and candidate to church membership could wait. However, the turn of events was a great disappointment for me. I dropped out of Samoa College in 1959. My family was disappointed and everyone was screaming down my neck for abusing an opportunity of a lifetime. To be in Samoa College was prestigious and hard to achieve, yet I had thrown it away by not working nard enough. Nevertheless, as I look back it is as if God were taking my life through a bitter experience to mould me for a better usefulness. My pastor's prayer that I would be in Leulumoega Fou High School, and Malua Theological College, came true. My dream to win a scholarship was fulfilled. C>

Instead of studying in New Zealand I won a church scholarship for a Bachelor of Divinity degree in Suva, Fiji. To be a missionary in a foreign land materialized 12 years later, after 4 years of teaching in Malua, 6 years as pastor in Pago Pago, and 2 more years teaching in Leulumoega Fou High School. When I heard we were going as missionaries in Jamaica, it dawned on me that we knew nothing about Jamaica, except for Harry Belafonte's hit song "Jamaica Farewell." It was a thrill to be commissioned and ordained by the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa in partnership with the Council of World Mission to work in a place that was unknown in the missionary enterprise of the Samoan Church. Tne Rev. Alosina Vavae and I were first from the Congregational Church to work in the Caribbean, though the Methodist pastors Samuela and Talalelei had already started work in Jamaica a year before we arrived. While heading towards a new field of service I remembered my father's words while I was a student in Malua. "Be friendly to all, honour God in your life, and endure all difficulties as trials to win to make you a better person for His Kingdom." To look after 2, or 3 or more congregations is alien in Samoa. Here in Jamaica, one feels like a itinerant preacher, always on the move. At present I look after 6 different churches where I hold Holy Communion almost twice every Sunday; chaplain in a high school of 1800 students, teach Religious Education 3 days a week, teach in the Lay Training programme of the United Church, hold prayer meetings and Evangelistic Crusades periodically, run a youth fellowship every Sunday ana attend business meetings regularly. Working for the poor and attempting to improve their lives is a challenge. We try to encourage the spirit of giving ana solicit help so that those who do not have, will get something to eat, clothes to wear and a shelter over their heads. Two years ago while my wife Rosarina and I were working in St Elizabeth we encourageda housing scheme programme for the sake of those who had no place to live. I came across two elderly people, in their seventies, huddling in a shack, soaking wet. The roof had caved in, letting the rain in, flooding the floor and soaking tne few things they owned. With the help of the church and the community, we built them a one room cement house. We baptized and married them and put up a reception in the church. The needs of the body, mind and soul all have to be encountered in the ministry of the church. My wife and my children, Benjamin 15, Grace 10, Duane 5, and Keripeane 3 are all involved in the work. It is good to sing as a family in church services and on crusades. It is an indication of God's song in our hearts. There are times when I have to walk for miles to hold church services and there are times when our resources are low or even run out, but God always provides. God has brought us through oceans and lands to work and be educated here. Next year 1989, will be the end of a 6 year period in the mission field. I wonder what is in store for us? For the moment I am confident of the words of Isiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a nope."

North America United States

Florida North Carolina Washington D.C. Pennsylvania New Jersey New York Massachusetts Louisiana Texas Colorado Utah Arizona Nevada California Oregon Washington Alaska Hawaii

Page 99 Left Vaai M o i m o i Puleisili Tuiolosega: F.B.I. M i a m i , Florida I was born in Pago Pago, Tutuila on April 7,1956. My father was Moimoi Puleisili Tuiolosega of Manu a and my mother is Folaui-ula Tuliloa of Afega, Upolu. Growing up in Samoa was different. Everybody was friendly and respected each other. I especially remember the "6 p.m. prayer curfews" in the 60's. Villagers were not allowed outside their homes or to drink liquor during this time. Once my father was carrying a beer. He ended up in jail overnight and was charged by my grandfather Tuiolosega Tu'umamao Soso, wno was the judge! Before my father died in September, 1964, he was the most important person in my life. He made me the happiest little girl in town. He taught me how to fish and hunt for bats. He was a warm, loving and caring person. Even now, at the age of 31,1 still think about those days in Samoa and how much I miss him. I attended Mageo Primary School in Pago Pago and Alofau Elementary School. In 1970,1 moved to Hawaii and attended Aliamanu Intermediate School. That was the hardest thing I had ever done in my life. I had to start all over again. I had no idea what Hawaii was like. I missed my Samoa. It is a beautiful place. The weather is warm all year round and the mountains are gorgeous. Tne people are friendly and beautiful. In Hawaii, I attended Radford High School from 1971 to 73, but graduated from Farrington High School in 1975. While at Farrington, I also attended Honolulu Community College and majored in Zoology. After graduation, I got married and had 2 beautiful children, Juan and Jeannie. In 1981,1 began working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Miami. I enjoy working with tne Bureau and am very proud to serve my country. Recently I've become an instructor with the Barbizon Modelling School, teaching students about makeup, wardrobe, fashion, modelling techniques, and how to become, or just look like a model. It's a long way from hunting bats to posing in front of a camera but Samoans are good at migrations!

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Michael John Kozlowski: Professional Football Player, TV Host. Plantation, Florida I was born in Newark, New Jersey on February 24,1956. It's not exactly next door to Samoa but it could be worse; my mom was going to name me "Kimo". Actually my father, Michael Alexander Kozlowski is Lithuanian/Hungarian and my mother, Marilyn Kawehiwehiokala Broad is Samoan/Hawaiian/English. My great grandmother Meie Taoa (Magele) was born in Fasito'otai, Upolu in 1870. My great grandfather was a ship's captain, Frederick Kenison was born in Salelavalu, Savai'i in the same year. My grandmother Maggi Kenison, second of 14 children, was born in Eva, Savai'i in 1893 and my grandfather also the son of a ship captain was John Edwin Broad born in Honolulu, Hawaii in 1889 of Hawaiian, English and French ancestry. From this little background you can see that I come from a globe spanning lot, but one thing for sure, I do possess Samoan Blood.

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A few years after I was born, second of 7, our family moved from New Jersey to my mother's homeland, Hawaii. Here I started grade school and learned a great aeal about my mother, her family, and Polynesian customs. It was great listening to my grandparents tell the stories of their lives, the good times, the bad, the wars they survived and best of all the fantastic luaus they had on the beach in Laie. Here my mother became known as one of the best double knife dancers in the islands. Even after she became a mother, she danced in Polynesian shows at all the big hotels in Atlantic City and was considered great. In my eyes, she still is. Well, from Hawaii the growing Kozlowski family moved to San Diego where we settled. It's still my parent s home. Living there kept us close to our cousins. California has a tremendous Samoan and Hawaiian population. Growing up in California was "like totally cool". I played as many sports aspossible, from surfing to volleyball, I did them all. I learned at an early age that if you wanted to be successful setting goals was important. One of my goals was to become a great athlete. Wel(f football was my first love and I worked my tail off to be the very best that I could. This drive ana determination is what has pushed me for 8 years as a defensive back for the Miami Dolphins. I can honestly say the ideals I learned from my family as a youth have sustained me all these years. I have truly enjoyed my sport and all the tremendous benefits that have come with being successful in it. Playing in 2 Superbowls, making my mark in the NFL record books with consecutive interceptions for touchdowns in one game, enable me to say, "I achieved my goal." I am proud to say that Polynesian culture has had a great influence in my life. Great love, warmth and happiness is what I was raised with and is something I try to pass on to my children too. Tne songs, dances and customs are all part of a beautiful culture and a happy life. In our world today with its many problems, it's a great feeling to know that if it's peace, happiness, love and warmth that we seek, it can be found in the culture of the Polynesian people. We in this book still live it, t o d a y . . .

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Jack Thompson: Entrepreneur/Marketing. Tampa, Florida I was born on May 18,1956 on the island of Tutuila, Samoa. My parents are Jack and Salamumu Thompson, both from Alao, Tutuila. My father was the first in our family to migrate to mainland United States in November of 1956, leaving behind my mother, my older brother and sister, Gene and Margaret, and me. In 1958, he was able to afford to send for my mother, and in 1960 brought my sister and me to Seattle. Gene, my seven-year-old brother, had formed a strong bond with our aunt and uncle, Jonn and Fa'ana Coen in Fagatogo. In classic "fa'a Samoa" fashion, my parents could not bear the thought of breaking that bond. During the ensuing years in Seattle, we welcomed 2 additions to our family, my sisters Lina and Patricia. As far back as I can remember, the single biggest motivating influence in my parents lives, outside of their Christian faith ana family (immediate and extended), was their devotion to education. Although I was fortunate to be accorded many sports honors during my years in high school, college and

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professional football, it was my college diploma that brought tears of joy to my parents'eyes. Combining education with athletic marked most of my teenage and early adult years. I attended Evergreen High School in Seattle and I pursued a college degree on a football scholarship at Washington State University. When I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration I was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals as a quarterback. I was later traded to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers where I completed my football career and where I presently reside. Always feeling close to my Samoan roots, I am constantly reminded of that fateful day during my college football days when a newspaper sports writer dubbed me "The Throwin' Samoan". That nickname, which reflects on my years of "throwin' the football", has followed me everywhere. That almost daily reference to my Samoan heritage brings a grin to my face and fills me with pride in my people. Today, with my family, my wife Molly and our two sons Jack Benjamin and Anthony Michael, our home remains in Tampa. The values and traditions of our strong Christian faith and our belief in education continue to be the focus of our life. Dividing my time between my family, my marketing company and various religious ana charitable causes, the "Throwin' Samoan' has thrown himself into a fulfilling Christian life, forever linked to my Samoan heritage.

I left there in 1974 and flew to Germany where I maintained a missile unit. It was a very lonely time for me. I went to the gym and started lifting weights. This was my special activity whenever I felt homesick. I finally met another Samoan and that felt great. In the Army we had power lifting competitions. One year our team won the division championship. Tnree out of 10 members of the team were Samoan. Finally in 19791 became a sergeant. It was one step ahead. During the next few years I travelled many times between Europe and the States. In South Carolina they made me an instructor. That same year, 19821 decided that I'd like to see if I could become a paratrooper. At first we jumped off a 34 foot tower while hooked to a cable. My first real jump from a plane was scary. I was squeezed between my parachute and knapsacL I got to the door. The wind hit me. My eyes were closed and fists clenched. When I felt the parachute open I thanked God for helping me. That kind of jump, with your eyes closed, we call a "night jump". Now when I jump it's nothing. I just say my prayer. It's like jumping in the car and going somewhere. The only difference is tnat you're jumping into the air. I'm proud to be a part of the 82nd Airborne. It was our division that went to Grenada. Author's Note: A couple of months ago Sgt. Nua's wife had an accident. For now she is paralyzed from the waist down. He gets up at 4 a.m., prepares breakfast for his daughter and goes off to work — till 5 p.m. — comes home, prepares supper, puts his daughter to bed—goes to the hospital where he bathes his wife and visits with her until about 10 p.m. — returns home to do the laundry, ironing, cleaning and whatever else needs to be done.

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Sgt. Kovati To'atolu Nua: U.S. Army. Ft. Bragg, North Carolina I was born in Si'ufaga, Ta'u, on February 4th, 1954. When I was one week old, I was adopted by Fa'apusa and Uili Yandall of Leloaloa. It was there that I grew up and attended school. I wasn't that smart in school but I learned what I could. I'd come home, clean the yard, cook some food for the family, and go to the pastor's school before dark. It was a good time. Next stop was Faga'itua High School — I graduated in 1973 and attended the community college for a semester. One day it was announced that an army recruiter was coming. My best friend and I decided to take the test. We both passed and planned to join together. I thought of all tne movies I'd seen and felt good that I could serve my country and maybe even help some of my Samoan brothers in the army. When it came time to go I was sad that my friend couldn't be with me. He was from Western Samoa and didn't have a green card. We flew to Honolulu. It was another world. There were all sorts of things I had never seen before. It was fascinating but I was also afraid to go out onto a street that went someplace I'd never been. But after about a weelc I began to get used to it. We flew to San Francisco and I did my basic training at Ft. Ord. It was hard but it was also good. The physical part was easy. We did a lot of things with our hands and bodies that we did back home.

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Rep. Eni F.H. Faleomavaega: U.S. Congressman, Washington, D.C.

Autobiography found on Page 207

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Gov. A. P. Lutaii: Governor of American Samoa, Washington, D.C. and Pago Pago, American Samoa. Autobiography found on Page 215

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Violeta Shafer Tavai Lea'e Dilauro: Homemaker. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania I was born on December 22nd, 1944 in Pago Pago, Tutuila, Samoa, to Saefa Shafer and Poumate Tavai Shafer. I was raised by Violeta Poti of Aunu'u and her first husband Tilau Tavai. Violeta later married Lafaele Lea'e of A'asu, Tutuila and I was adopted by them. My earliest recollections are of living with Violeta in the nurses' quarters in Utulei. I refused to stay with my grandmotner in Fa'ilolo so Violeta took me with her even though children were forbidden in the quarters. The other nurses looked after me whenever my mother worked. Every meal they saved a little something, so I always had a good supply of food. If the Head Nurse came for inspection I hid under the building until she was gone, quite an adventure . In 1948 my dad sought employment in Hawaii. Four years later my mother and I joined him. In Hawaii I hadto learn English. Violeta began a program. Whenever I missed the same word too many times, another teacher, tne belt, came on the scene. Needless to say, I was a fast learner. When I really began to speak my second language, I was told that palagi (English) was for school and to leave it outside when I came home. I grew up in what I call "Tin Pan Alley", Honolulu. It was off Beretania Street, a real ghetto. The only area new immigrants could afford. Mom rented a room and we walked to the Dath house and toilet. She was a very hard working and thrifty woman. A couple of years later she read about some new houses going up in Ali'a manu. Somehow she managed to scrape together enough for a down payment. It was quite a day when we moved into a two bedroom house with a living room, dining room, kitchen, and our own bathroom! I attended Pearl Harbor Elementary and eventually Radford High School. Then in 19631 met my husband while he was in the Navy. Tony was born in Italy and left there in 1952 to come to the United States. When he joined the Navy he requested duty in Italy but was shipped to Hawaii instead. I told him it was fate that brought us together. From opposite sides of the world we met in Hawaii. We lived there for a year after Tony was discharged. Then in 1967 we came to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with our daughter. Now almost 20 years later, that same little girl is the Cnerry Blossom Princess representing American Samoa in Washington's Cherry Blossom Festival. After 10 years in Philadelphia I gave up hope of ever meeting another Samoan. But shortly after that Tony called my attention to an article in the Philadelphia paper about a Samoan the Eagles had drafted, Terry Tautolo. In the article tne reporters wanted to know why ne was such a loner. His answer was,

"If I sit with the white players the black players will probably get the wrong impression, and the white players will feel the same if I sit with the black players. I'm better off sitting by myself." Most people in Philadelphia didn't know what a Samoan was before Terry came. The Samoan athlete has done a tremendous job in putting us on the map. I contacted Terry and told him the good news, "There are 2 Samoans in Philadelphia." We shared our family history and learned that his father also came from Aunu'u. Terry went on to play for the San Francisco 49ers, the Miami Dolphins and the Detroit Lions, but he's still very much a part of our family. In 1986 the Eagles drafted another Samoan, Tautalatasi Jr. My husband went to training camp to tell him there was another Samoan in Philadelphia. We've tried to make ourselves a welcoming committee for any Samoans in the area, especially these young men so far from home. We have gone through the highs and lows of their careers. The pain and agony of injuries and surgery. Terry and Jr. both recovered from surgery in our home. We've tried to be there when it was impossible for their parents to be at their side. Our palagi (European) friends can't understand how we can call a total stranger and invite them into our home. I try to explain that when you are a Samoan, another Samoan is not a stranger. My mother once told me that God gave every race something unique. Something that they would be known ana recognized for. He gave the Samoans the best gift of all,' le loto alofa", a loving spirit. We are not strangers to one another.

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Viliamu Lemalu Tuisamoa: High Rise Construction Worker. Atlantic City, New Jersey I was born in 1944 at Moto'otua Hospital, on the island of Upolu and lived the first 12 years of my life in the hospital compound. My father Puiai Lemalu Tuisamoa of Vaovai Falealili, Upolu was a dentist, and my mother Susana Leota of Avao, Savaii was a nurse. All of my early education was on Upolu. I went to the "Model School" at Malifa, Poutasi High School at Falealili, the Seventh Day Adventist School at Lalovaea and Technical Training Institute at Vaivase. In 19651 left home for New Zealand, took night classes and worked at Gerrard Spring Factory in Auckland. I migrated again in 1970, this time to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) to join the Royal Polynesian Revue then on a world tour. We traveled throughout Southeast Asia, Great Britain, Europe, the Scandinavian countries, Middle East and the U.S.A. Everywere the show went my interest in rugby prompted me to look for teams. I'm a dedicated rugby player. As a result I was picked and played for the "All English-American First Fifteen in the U.S."

In 19791 left full-time show business and went into the construction field as an "Iron Worker". Perhaps it's because I was used to climbing for coconuts as a youth that I have no real difficulty with heights. Increasingly I find that I'm in demand for work on semi high-rises. I still do show business on the side. I appeared on the ABC soap opera "One Life to Live" and in the movie "Chief Zabu" with Manu Tupou of Tonga. I am now married to Sieni Patolo of Aua, Tutuila and we live in Atlantic City, New Jersey with our two beautiful girls, Makelita Susana and Maupenei Pisila. I am very proud to be a Samoan, more so now than ever.

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Nusi Moa Mauala: International Civil Servant. New York City, New York I was born in Utualii in 1950. My father is Faataumoa Maualaivao Neru. He holds the title of Tuiatafu in Malie and Pualele in Utualii, Upolu. My mother was Mele Faipaua Lefale of Utualii. She died in 1980. I received most of my education in Samoa at Avele School and Alafua Regional Agricultural College. University training (Hawaii and Australia) for the Bachelor and Master of Science degrees was in agriculture, with specialization in soil science. My years in the Western Samoa public service were spent with the Department of Agriculture and as a Lecturer in Soil Science at Alafua College. While a student in Hawaii, I met my wife Robin, who was also studying there. I grew up in an extended family that has been involved with the Christian church in Samoa for generations. On my mother's side, my great grandfather, Ma'anaima Mose Mata'u was among the first Pastors from Samoa to work in Melanesia. He died and is buried in Papua New Guinea; my uncle, the Reverend Lene Milo, is the present President of tne Methodist church in Samoa. My father's family are known as "tufuga faufale", (builders). He and his father, the late Maualaivao Neru of Malie, together, and individually, built seven churches, several pastors' residences and village schools, around Upolu, Savaii and Tutuila. I came to New York in 1978 with my wife Robin and daughter Mele when my wife was posted as First Secretary to the Permanent Mission of Western Samoa to the United Nations. In 1980, the government of Solomon Islands asked me to be their representative to tne United Nations. The Solomon Islands had become a member of the United Nations in 1978 but did not set up a permanent mission until later. From 1980-19831 represented the Solomon Islands at the U.N. and I attended three United Nations General Assemblies voting on behalf of that island nation. I also served as a member of their delegation to two full sessions of the Law of the Sea Conference. During this period I was the spokesman and liaison between the Solomon Islands and the international organization. In a ceremony held in New York on April 8,1983, the Governor General of Solomon Islands, Sir Baddeley Devesi, bestowed on me one of his country's most prestigious awards, the Solomon Islands Medal. It was created "to honour those

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who have rendered most distinguished service to the nation." It was given to me in recognition of my service as representative of the Solomon Islands to the United Nations. This was a very great honour as the investiture marked only the second time the medal was awarded to anyone other than a citizen of the Solomon Islands, the other recipient being Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. In 1983,1 was appointed the Chief Administrative Officer of the newly established Joint Office of CHOGRM for small states in New York. Through financial assistance from Australia, the Solomon Islands, Western Samoa and the Maldives are provided with office, telex, telephone, photocopying and facsimile facilities as well as general secretarial, document and librarian assistance for their missions to the United Nations. Periodically, Australia, New Zealand, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea hold regional meetings in our facilities. On many occasions, official visitors from countries of the region, not represented as the United Nations are received in our office. In essence my work gives me a sense of service, not only to my country but to all of the South Pacific.

easier to work in an organisation striving to reconcile the multitude of differences that divide humankind, to minimize and resolve conflicts, to give all human beings a chance to live in peace and good health free of exploitation and suffering — because I come from a country where these things are taken for granted. Seeing the major problems facing many countries in the developing world, I formed the Pacific Islands Association with some friends to enhance the flow of information between decision and policy makers of the Island nations and territories, and their counterparts in the metropolitan countries to help ensure that misunderstandings do not turn into conflict and suffering. Soon, however, it will be time to return home.

Page 109 Left and Top Right Reginald L. Schwenke: Public Relations. Honolulu, Hawaii Photo: New York

Page 106 Right Lelei Lelaulu Tuisamoa: U.N. Broadcasting and Information. New York City, New York People in the cold northern climates think I am crazy. "What are you doing here when you could be in Samoa, in Paradise?" is tne most oft-asked question. So Samoa is never far from my mind. I think about Papauta, Upolu where I was born in September, 1944 to lliganoa Leauanae and LeLaulu Nonu Tuisamoa, and their decision to leave the comfortable confines, good jobs and family for the dark, wintery, New Zealand where light sarong were replaced by the indescribable discomfort of wool underwear and scratchy tweeds. Where mango, papaya, taro and freshly baked fish were replaced by dead cabbage floating on eerie hot water and dry, dry mutton. The schools were better, they say, and the opportunities more plentiful. I don't think my parents had any idea of how we would use those opportunities to scatter to other parts of the globe. My own jaunts started at Auckland University, where as Editor of the Varsity paper "Craccum", I became intoxicated with journalism. The paper was awarded a prize as New Zealand's Universities best, which was nice, but the prize, a free trip to every University in Australia, was even better. The Travel bug was in place. Back to New Zealand, I moved to Wellington and a job as a current affairs producer with NZ Broadcasting. Abandoning a broadcasting career with the B.C.N.Z., I leapt at the chance to manage a Polynesian aance team led by my sister loana for a year-long stint in Japan, Hong Kong, Korea and the countries of South-East Asia. The group went to Europe ana settled in the United States. I kept on moving as a foreign correspondent on a number of publications in America and Britain. Every few months or so, another assignment would take me away to some far-off land, a small war perhaps, and a couple of bigger ones. Seeing so much suffering, deprivation and war made it inevitable that I end up at the United Nations whicn was formed over four decades ago to save the peoples of the world from the "scourge of war". It's a tough fight with few victories but it is one which is a lot easier to fight knowing that in the end, somebody's life may be made a little better, and a few more kids live to see the light of day. It is also

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"In everything you do, strive to do it better than anyone before you. Develop this thought into a lifelong attitude and I promise you will be successful in anything you undertake. That is my secret." Jack Anderson, America's most renowned investigative columnist, confided his personal formula for success during an exclusive interview in 1979. At the time, I was a reporter for The Honolulu Advertiser and the first Samoan journalist employed at either of Hawaii's 2 daily newspapers. Though I was born on May 23rd, 1955 and raised in Auckland, New Zealand. I am Samoan and proud of it. Both my parents are from Iva, Savai'i. My maternal grandfather was Tolai Le'auanae and my mother, Tofilau Leatoasina Mau (remarried), bears a familiar matai title. My father is Max Albert Schwenke and of his genealogical lineage, I know little. I am Reginald Leland Schwenke, named after my uncle's favorite schoolteacher. I wish he'd had a Samoan name. In person, I consider myself average in demeanor, intelligence and physical stature. By reputation, I am considered "a doer, an overachiever and someone with excellent contacts." In reality, I have accomplished a lot with a little. Trials and tribulations early in my life provided me with the motivation and ambition to strive for success. As a 10-year-old newsboy selling The Auckland Star downtown, I was determined to set new selling records at every corner I was assigned to — and did. Years later, I was hired by that paper and became the first Samoan reporter for any daily newspaper in Auckland. My journalism career evolved like this: My first newspaper job was as a $5a-week' cub" reporter for The Samoa Times (weekly); "Intern" reporter for The Auckland Star (daily); Associate Editor of the Tahiti Bulletin (daily); Chief Reporter for Tne Samoa Times (weekly); Managing Editor or the Samoa News (weekly); Legislative intern for The Honolulu Star-Bulletin (daily); General assignment reporter for The Honolulu Advertiser (daily); and reporter for Pacific Business News (weekly). Prior to beginning my own promotions and public relations consulting firm, I was director of public relations and promotions for 4 years at the Polynesian Cultural Center, Hawaii's most popular visitor attraction. In that capacity, I was instrumental in developing a number of major events and activities for the Cultural Center. Most prominent was the non-profit Aloha Liberty Foundation of which I was president and founder.

Involving Hawaii's most influential business and government leaders, the goal was to raise private sector funds to aid the restoration of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, America's foremost symbols of freedom, hope and opportunity. It was later acknowledged as the "most comprehensive statewide grassroots fundraising effort in the United States" for this cause. The efforts of the Aloha Liberty Foundation drew the personal attention of President Ronald Reagan and Lee lacocca, national campaign chairman. I met personally with both men. On the eve of July 3,1986,1 was sworn in at New York's Ellis Island — by then-Chief Justice Warren Burger of the Supreme Court — as a United States citizen. There were only 128 persons selected nationally by their respective state governors to personally receive this oath in the first ana last time such a ceremony was held on Ellis Island. I was a proud 31-year-old Samoan. My life and accomplishments are far from over. I am living testimony that any Samoan, in spite of an economically difficult beginning, can succeed in their chosen vocation if they have the determination and desire to pursue their dreams and take advantage of all opportunities that come their way. I have taken Jack Anderson's words to heart and have created my own: DARE TO DREAM, THEN DARE TO DO.

Page 110 Top Left Leafaina Tavai: West Point Cadet. West Point, New York Nervous, pressured, and scared are feelings very familiar to me. They have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up as the oldest in my family was not easy. My parents set high standards and expected me to set an example for my 4 brothers. They demanded nothing less than my best in everything, especially school. They instilled in me a sense of competitiveness as well as humility. I was repeatedly reminded to thank God for anything I achieved for nothing was accomplished without His help. I hated feeling pressured and afraid of failing to meet tneir standards. But as I grew up, I got used to it and found myself not only enjoying competition but even looking for it. High school was fun. But as I approached my senior year, I began to think more seriously about the future. I enjoyed my matn classes and did well in them, but I wanted something more. I wanted to be someone that my parents would want me to be,a lawyer. I was accepted but I wasn't satisfied. I wanted something different, something that not many people have done. That opportunity came when I was accepted at West Point. It was the first year Congressman Sunia was allowed to nominate candidates for the service academies — West Point, the Naval and Air Force academies — and I applied for a nomination. I didn't know much about the academies, but I applied. I nad heard that it was really tough to get in. That motivated me even more. The more I learned about the military, the more it appealed to me. The Army became my first choice when I found that there were more opportunities for women there. West Point offered and I accepted the challenge. I am now at the end of my yearling Isopnomore) year, and very much looking forward to the next 2 years. I am gladl came here instead of law school. I have learned so much and have done so many things I never would have had the opportunity to do elsewhere. I've driven a tank and fired it, fired the M16, [ >

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Page 112 Bottom Left M203 grenade launcher AK47, Vulcan, thrown a grenade, etc. But more importantly, I have learned to be independent, confident, and to appreciate what little freedom I have. We spend a lot of time in class and doing practicals. I chose to come to West Point because I wanted to, not because my parents wanted me to. Their full support, however, was a major factor, and has helped me through many tough times. I thank God for my parents, and I thank my parents for the way tney brought me up. It has made it easier for me to adapt to the competitive and demanding environment of West Point. I hope I never disappoint them or Samoa.

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Mosiula F. Tatupu: NFL Football Player. Massachusetts I was born on the 26th of April, 1955 in Pago Pago, Tutuila. My father is Mosiula F. Tatupu of Masefau, Tutuila and my mother was Letau Cao 'upu of Pago Pago. My earliest memories are of going to the park in Kalihi to play with my friends. It didn't matter what kind of ball we haa, a tennis ball, football, anything would do. How I just loved being with my friends, sharing good times witn them. The best players became captains and got to choose their teams. I did my best and it felt ereat to have my friends feel good about me. The next time we played they'd cnose me earlier. Eventually I got to be captain and I could pick them. Things changed a little when I began school. I still loved being outside, playing ana scoring, but now I'd have to come back into a classroom. It's hard to concentrate when you're all sweaty. After school and on weekends my folks gave me a lot of freedom. I could play as long as I got home before dark. If I didn't, that was something else. The thing that I hated the most was when my mom lowered the boom. Boy could she beat me. I became a real mellow kid. No fights at school. If I did I'd get a worse beating when I got home. A big turning point came in 1970. That year I got a scholarship to Punahou, a private school in Makiki. It's really not that far from Kalihi, but to me it was another neighbourhood, a world away. What a shock to see all those haole jwhite) kids with blond hair. Up til then I'd only known Polynesian and Japanese I repeated the 8th grade because Punahou was academically almost a year ahead. I was barely making it and had to really work. Looking back, Punahou was the best move I ever made. It broadened my horizons and made me think about some things I'd never really thought about before. I met all kinds of kids, a lot of them wealthy. Some really didn't care about school. I did. My folks had to pay half my tuition and I felt responsible to do the best I could. In the 8th grade I played Freshman football, basketball and baseball. The following year, I made the Hawaii All-Star team in all 3 sports. It was a great year because I also met my future wife, Lei Garcia. I met her at a basketball game. We

had just lost to her school but I won that day and have continued to win ever since just being with her. Lei graduated a year before I did with a track scholarship to Michigan but stayed in Hawaii till I graduated, but I'm getting ahead of my story. My last 2 years of high school were even better. My senior year I gained 1,400 yards, broke the state record, and was chosen the player of the year for the Interscholastic Association of Private Schools in Hawaii. The next thing I knew a lot of colleges, almost 20, were offering me scholarships. I was excited because my parents wouldn't have to pay for my education. I made several trips and decided on the University of Southern California. I had some family in Los Angeles. Arriving in LA was a shock. As soon as I got off the plane I was homesick. There were thousands of people, cars and freeways going every which way. I was dropped off at the dorm and called Hawaii. "Mom, I'm coming home." She replied in Samoan, "Mosi, you made your choice, stick to it. You just got there." Coming from the islands, I was a laid Dack, shy kid. I wouldn't even go up to someone and say hello. I never felt so alone. Luckily I had a good roommate, the football season began and I met my teammates. The sun came out. That year we lost our first game and won all the rest. We just turned it on game after game, got our foot set and rolled. We won the National Title in the Rose Bowl. Tnat's like the Super Bowl of college football, 106,000 fans. Dad sent mom. It was an awesome feeling. During the 4 years I was at USC we had only 9 losses out of 44 games. Every year we made it to a different bowl game. My junior year we were back in the Rose Bowl. My mom was there, Lei and her parents were there. It was a wonderful time. I won a ring and gave it to my dad. It was something I had earned. He didn't say much Dut I knew what he was feeling. I didn't make as many yards in college as I had in high school. I was basically a blue collar player who blocked well, ran great inside, could tackle, catch and throw the ball. I guess it all added up. In 19781 was drafted by the New England Patriots and have just finished playing 10 years for them. I feel truly blessed that I've been able to participate for so long in something that I love ana to get paid for doing it. Over tne years I've got the system down on theSpecialTeams. What some people call my Kamikaze playing. When a first stringer gets hurt I can also get in there and do the job. My most wonderfulmemory is the Miami Dolphins game in 1985. We were the wild card for the AFC. We beat the Jets in N.Y., the Raiders in L.A. and went on to play the Dolphins. New England had never beaten the Dolphins in Miami in almost 18 years. That year we did it. For me it was a culmination of something I had started when I was 13, playing organized football in the Pop Warner League. Now 17 years later I was on my way to the Super Bowl. I love football. There have been so many wonderful people involved in getting me here. I am deeply grateful to them for making tne trip with me, for all their support and love. I supply the physical and their caring gives added spirit. Without them there might nave been a trip but it wouldn't nave been a journey. You'd have to be a robot to do it alone. I couldn't have been blessed more, I'm Samoan and I come from a wonderful people and culture. I dedicated my Super Bowl game to my father-inlaw, Taki. I'd like to dedicate my autobiography to my mom, Letau. God, I miss her. Author's Note: Mosi spends a great deal of time and effort working for various charities such as: the Rhode Island Special Olympics for 6 years, the past 3 as the Honorary Chairman; the Tufts University Wildlife Clinic; trie Liver Foundation; and the Pine St. Shelter for the Homeless of Boston.

Penny Hutchins: C o t t o n Plantation. Harrisonburg, Louisiana I was born in Hawaii on March 22,1939, and that is where I grew up. My mother, Edna Tavares, is of Hawaiian, Chinese, Portuguese, English and Tahitian descent and my dad, Henry Mauga Taufaasau, was Samoan ana came from the village of Pago Pago. Although I always knew I was Samoan, I never felt part of the culture. My first memory of my Samoan relatives was when I was about three and a half years old. My uncle came from Samoa and lived with us for a year. The whole atmosphere in the house changed. It was the first time that I had heard my dad speat a language other than English. Some of my uncle's Samoan friends came by to visit ana they brought some of the most beautiful fans, mats and linen I nave ever seen. But most memorable of all was their loving personalities. One of the warmest memories I have is of sitting on dad's lap and listening to him talk with the other men. The language was unfamiliar but beautiful and the voices were warm and comforting. I attended a parochial elementary and a Catholic girls' high school. We were well disciplined. I never considered myself a good student but I managed to get through. I had always planned to go to college and so enrolled at the University of Hawaii. Unfortunately, I discovered that I enjoyed the social life more than the scholastic. What a snock to discover that I was out for at least one semester. I had failed three of five courses. I got a job working in the PX at Tripler Army Hospital and it was there that I met my husband-to-be, Glendon Hutcnins. We were married in 1960. Our first two children, Glendon Jr. and Mary, were born in Hawaii and Donovan and Susan were born in Denver, Colorado. During the 20 years that my husband was in the military, we lived in Hawaii, Louisiana, Colorado, Georgia and Kentucky. It was a good life and I became accustomed to it. I was involved with our church, scouting, the Red Cross volunteers and the Armv community programs. So it was something of a shock when my husband announced he wanted to retire and go into farming. The change was stressful, the pace much slower, and I began to feel sorry for myself. After 9 months, I decidea I needed to do something positive for myself. In the summer of 1977,1 enrolled in college. This meant driving 120 miles every day for 4 years, (I lived for the semester breaks!) but at the end of the 4 years I had earned not only a BS in Speech Pathology but an MEd in Special Education. The sense of accomplishment and the satisfaction gained were tremendous. I felt really good about myself and my relationship with my husband and children. Tneir support was constant and selfless. The farm has been successful. We have gone from 900 acres of soybeans to 5000 acres of soybeans, cotton and grain sorghum. Harrisonburg, Louisiana, is beginning to feel like home. Last year, (August 1986) while my parents were visiting, my dad suffered a stroke. It did not impair him physically but he was in constant and intense pain. He died at home in Hawaii in November 1986. Because he was a Mauga, the funeral was held fa'a Samoa (according to Samoan custom). The ceremonies involved were unknown to me but the feelings they created were the same ones that I'd experienced when I sat on his lap as a child and listened to him talk with his friends in Samoan. I immediately became part of the Samoan family that I barely knew. There was no strangeness or awkwardness in the sympathy they offered. It was a genuine offering of love and comfort. It was the Samoan way and it was me!

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Leati Sika Anoa'i Amituana'i: Professional Wrestler.

Tiloi Henry Lolotai: Firefighter. Lafayette, Colorado

Photo — Houston, Texas I was born in Leone, Tutuila on the 5th of April, 1945. My father is Rev. Anoa'i Amituana'i of Fagatogo, Tutuila and my mother Touale A. Leoso of Leone, Tutuila. When I was young I loved to watch the Matson liners sail into Pago Pago harbor. I can remember wondering how such a big thing could float. We'd run down to the boat dock and dive for coins, entertaining the tourists. I guess even back then I was an entertainer. In back of my mind was the hope that one day I would sail on such a boat. We were 13 children and it was really hard for my dad to take care of all of us. He was a pastor in Utulei. In 1959 he was transferred to a church in San Francisco. I was 14 and to me the city was a Christmas tree. I'd never seen so many lights nor so many things to buy. It wasn't long before I realized that in this new society there was no "Christmas" without money. I tried to attend school but it didn't work. I came from a large family. The icebox was empty and I wanted to fill it. I was big for my age and began working as a merchant marine when I was 14. At first I did little things. I'd make the coffee and deliver it to whoever was on duty. We travelled between San Francisco, the Philippines and Japan. I finally got to sail on the Matson liners Mariposa and Monterey. In 1969, when I was 24,1 married Patricia Hooker. We ran off to Reno for the ceremony. My sailing days were over. I worked as a longshoreman lifting 150 lb. sacks of rice and coffee. One day another longshoreman wanted me to work his shift. I told him I was going home. He said, 'No", so we settled it. I went home and he went somewhere else. My brother Afa began to wrestle and it seemed a good thing to do. I needed a job and had always enjoyed going to the Cow Palace to watch the wrestling. There were lots of times when I had wanted to get into the ring myself — just for the fun of it. Now I was going to get paid. How lucky can you get. Afa and I eventually made it to Madison Square Garden. I love wrestling in that place. Even if you are hurt, no matter how sore or tired, when you go into that ring the people and their enthusiasm heal you and you can do your best. When we were starting out Afa and I needed a name. We came from a small group of islands in the South Pacific and knew that the world didn't know about our nome. So we decided to let them know. We called ourselves the Wild Samoans. Then for theatrical effect, we let our hair grow. Between 1970 and 1985 we held the World Tag Team Championship 3 times. No other team has ever done that so I guess we did something good for our family and our homeland. I've had a good life and everything I have I owe to my parents. Author's Note: With his limited education, Sika is one of the most sensitive and intelligent people I have met. He expresses himself with images which are profound and poetic.

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I was born to good and loving parents — Albert and Matilda Lolotai — in Houston, Texas on July 28,1954. Why Texas, because my dad had to support a growing family of 4 boys. Soon there were 6 plus 1 girl, Dad took on professional wrestling to supplement his income from coaching at Colorado A&M University (now Colorado State University). In 1959 we moved to Hawaii and it is there that I grew up. My parents, Dad especially, stressed being a well rounded person — physically fit, mentally sharp, and spiritually strong. Physical activities were my passion as a youth and in high school where I was fairly successful. Encouraged by my father, I earned a full scholarship to the University of Colorado at Boulder. Of course, being offered a scholarship and being accepted by the University are two different things. I was fortunate to have a father who knew the importance of education. He not only sent me to one of the top academic schools in Hawaii (lolani) but also made sure that my homework was done and that I understood what I studied. It took me a while to realize that the same effort I put into being successful as an athlete was also needed in the classroom. My 4 years at the University of Colorado were good learning years. Being so far from nome, I learned to get by on my own in a culture that was very different from the one in which I grew up. I played football and did some travelling. And I learned that although, at first, people may seem different, we are all basically the same. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Community Recreation and started working with the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, Hawaii. I was responsible for establishing a recreation program for the employees and the youth of the community. I learned that there is a lot more to recreation than just playing. Activities must oe planned and organized, with good leadership, or the program soon becomes uninteresting and boring. As time went on I got better, but I also got 'burned-out'. In 1979,1 married the former Harmony Ewaliko of Kahaluu, Hawaii, and two years later, we moved to Boulder, Colorado. Fortunately for me, I married a very supportive wife who was willing to move to a strange city, take on the challenge of making new friends, start a new job and embark on a whole new lifestyle. We are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) and the church members in Boulder helped us make the transition from an island to a mainland culture. For the first two and a half years, I worked a number of odd jobs — from laborer on a construction crew, to busboy-waiter in a restaurant, ana salesman in a sporting goods store. Those were lean years and Harmony and I had to struggle. But, as hard as those times were, they served to strengthen our marriage ana made us realize that we could make it on our own, even though we were far from family, friends and the warmth of the islands. I am presently employed by the City of Boulder as a firefighter. Over 700 people applied for 5 positions. The numbers were against me, but I decided I would be one of the 5. My plan was to do well in allof the tests and not leave a choice as to who should be hired. My plan worked and I was told to report on December 5,1983. In becoming a firefighter, I was able to do what I inherently wanted — to help people. We not only put out fires, but we also respond to medical emergencies. As part of my qualification I learned to be an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). We respond to motor vehicle accidents; heart attacks; drug related incidents; suicides; and almost any other situation in which people are hurt and need help. Almost 85% of our calls are medically related.

I enjoy my work very much. It is hazardous and dangerous, but it is also rewarding. When people see you, their whole world is coming apart and they are in a state of confusion. They look to you for help. At one moment, I can De relaxing at the station, and the next moment, I'm fighting a raging fire, reviving someone through cardiopulminary resuscitation (CPR). No two calls are the same. We have 6 minutes, from the time we get a call, to when we are on the scene. Because much of what we do is very physical, I have to stay in top condition. I enjoy exercise and weightlifting, but it can work against me. If I get too big or musdebound, I won't be able to change into my gear quickly enough. And, I won't be able to fit into the small places wnen fighting a fire or rescuing someone. Much of the equipment I wear is very heavy. We nave bunkergear (made of fire resistant materials) to protect us from the heat and we carry breathing apparatus for smoke filled rooms. The total weight can add up to 60 lbs. and on top of that we drag a fire hose that is charged with over 100 lbs. of pressure. It's a real workout. Being the only Samoan in the department gives me a chance to share my culture with my fellow workers. Though I am lacking in many of the finer points, I am able to explain the differences between the Polynesian cultures. The assumption tliat the South Pacific is just palm trees, grass shacks, and balmy weather no longer prevails, at least in this part of the Rockies. Here Samoa is known as a strong, vibrant and living culture that not only grasps the world of today, but also retains its traditions, language and customs. I believe that Samoans are able to live in and contribute to any society and I'm proud of my heritage and proud to be who I am — a Samoan.

• Page 115 Left Margie Ahmu Puriri: Mormon Tabernacle Choir Member. Salt Lake City, Utah I was born on December 21st, 1936 in Apia, Upolu. My father is Olsen Ahmu, and my mother Dora Stehlin, both of Apia. I grew up in Pesega Upolu, Pago Pago Tutuila, Hawaii and New Zealand. My family moved to New Zealand in the early 50's and it was there that I completed my education. I married a Maori New Zealander, Ra Puriri. We have 4 sons, 2 daughters, and 5 grandchildren. My father was a wonderful musician and put together a dance orchestra. As a child I loved to sine along during rehearsals at home as well as in church, wherever he performed! Dad could play several instruments and was the choir master in our church. He's now 78 years old and very much enjoys his latest acquisition — an electric keyboard. I'm a mother and a homemaker. I've always retained my love of music. I play the guitar and ukulele. As long as I can remember I've enjoyed listening to the Tabernacle Choir's broadcasts as well as their recordings and tapes. We | >

moved to the U.S. in 1953 and lived in California for 5 years before coming to Utah. The climate was especially recommended for our youngest child's health. Since arriving my family and friends repeatedly encouraged me to try out for the choir. I kept putting it off until my child's health was better. Try outs for tne choir are a requisite and the competition is rigorous. Those chosen must also be in good standing in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Three years ago, after months of try outs and auditions I was very moved and privileged to be accepted. For me it's a continuation of my musical education for there are so many opportunities to learn and perform that I would have otherwise missed. The 350 choir members come from all walks of life. They are unpaid volunteers who sing for the love of great music and for the satisfaction of giving pleasure to others. Each Sunday when we broadcast I feel so proud to add some sounds of Samoa to this glorious choir.

Page 116 Bottom Danny Toese Fuimaono: U.S. Postal Service. Glendale, Arizona I was born at Parks AFB, Pleasanton, California on the 24th of January, 1956 and lived in the San Francisco area until the age of 9. My father is Lutu Fuimaono of Fagatogo and my mother is Sin i ra Talatonnuiuatoa of Olosega. The year was 1965 when my family moved to Samoa. The excitement of going home had everyone in the house hoping that Samoa would look like what they dreamed of. My dream was jungles and monkeys. Jungles there were, but no monkeys. For 5 years I had a 75 sq. mi. playground. It was during this period in my life tnat I realized I had the freedom to roam and explore my surroundings without ever encountering a fence, wall or a "No Trespassing" sign. I feel fortunate to have experienced this freedom and I will always treasure those childhood memories. In 19691 was sent to Hawaii to go to school. I lived with my Auntie Anoi in Aiea Heights, Oahu. This is probably my most distasteful experience ever. It is a memory that has molded my nature to respect another's race, creed or color. It is a memory of prejudice against Samoans. I felt the eyes, saw kids whisper amongst themselves, but never once suspected that I was not in "my place". Then one day I had a misunderstanding with a teacher in ninth grade and she happened to say that I was like "all Samoans, nothing but troublemakers." If she had said it in anger, I may not have noticed her belief in her statement, but she said it in a cool, casual factual manner. Realizing this, my response was, "It's teachers like you that make kids drop out of school." It was then that it dawned on me that the 'looks and whispers' were because I was taking literature instead of grammar. (That I, a Samoan, shouldn't be in that class.) My only fault was being in classes that Samoans weren't expected to take. It wasn't the sort of class that people who were learning English as a second language would take. It was a bad experience but probably tne most

important lesson in life. The lesson was to "respect" each individual's customs ana pride in their heritage. After Hawaii I returned to Samoa in 1971 and completed high school at Samoana. I received a scholarship and left for Oregon State University. A year later I returned, I had no drive to complete schoofso I enlisted in the Air Force. I was sent to Lackland AFB, Texas, for 6 weeks of Basic Training, and transferred to Keebler AFB, Mississippi. There I trained as an air traffic controller. Upon completion, I received my first duty station orders to Wurtsmith, Michigan. For 3 years I suffered through the icy cold wind, and the 8-foot snow drifts before being assigned to sunny Florida and 2 years in Panama City, working terminal radar approach control. Next stop Bitburo AFB, West Germany, in 1980. It was there that I met my second wife, Rose. Europe was a "blast", an educational experience, scene of World War I and II, castles, the land of royalty, and cathedrals. In 1984,1 made the transfer from the Air Force to civilian status, and followed my wife, Rose to Phoenix, Arizona. After a year of being "Mr. Mom" and working for Lear Siegler as a flight simulator, I was employed by the United States PostalService. I was hired as a LSM Operator, which stands for Letter Sorter Machine clerk. I work a 2001 machine which sorts thousands of letters so that the carriers can deliver them to the correct addresses. The particular machine that I work on, processes mail at a rate of 50 letters a minute. On a good night the LSM machine can process anywhere from 1 million to 1.5 million pieces of mail. To qualify for this job I had to pass a scheme. A scheme is a block of addresses. My scheme consists of 1004 blocks of addresses. Learning these addresses ana assigning them to appropriate carriers is what my job is all about. You may be wondering how I ever learned all those addresses, correctly routing them within a second? It probably comes from memorizing my geneological connections. Samoans are great at that.

Page 117 Left William Siliaga Nua: Locomotive Engineer. Las Vegas, Nevada I was born on August 16th, 1942 in Kahuku, Hawaii. My father was Salamo Nua of Ta'u, Manu'a ana my mother is Venise Lefotu of Amanave, Tutuila. When I was a little older we moved to Mayor Wright Housing in Palolo, Hawaii. School wasn't one of my favorite things. I wasn't communicating very well with the teachers and they weren't communicating with me. I much preferred earning some money for my family selling newspapers and shining shoes. In 1954 my dad, a Staff Sargeant in the Marines announced that we were moving to the mainland — my mother suffered from asthma and the climate there would be better. I did not want to go — I didn't believe there was another place other than Hawaii. To me Hawaii was a place of freedom, space and beauty. I had no reason to leave and somehow I knew that if I left Hawaii my life would never be the same again. I wasn't just leaving a place, at 13,1 was leaving

my childhood and all the freedom and joy that went with it. It got so bad that they finally tied me up, hand cuffed me and the MP's escorted me on board the ship. We arrived in San Francisco, it was beautiful but oh! how my feet ached — For the first time I had to wear shoes — I hated the food — it was all strange — no rice — only bread, potatoes and vegetables — I finally started eating the stuff and began to like it. When I graduated I worked construction and then attended Junior College. My family catered luaus — It wasn't too long before I realised performing was a lot more fun than waiting on tables. I enjoyed knife and fire dancing and moved to Miami with a dance group. After 3 months there I was addressed by some Federal Marshals — it seems that my mum, who couldn't speak English had filed my draft notices for 3 years — In one day I was given some tests and a physical and sworn in at 5pm that afternoon. By 8pm we were on a transport train to Port Jackson South Carolina. I never saw my apartment again. I was in the army for 3 years — two of those years were spent entertaining around Germany. Altogether it was a good time but Army life wasn't for me. I decided to go into physical education. In 19671 met my wife Dal Lundholm and later that year we were married. I made the decision to quit entertaining — for a while I worked on an assembly line. One day I came home and heard that the railroad was hiring. I put in my application and started as a laborer — I greased the gears on the locomotives — 5 nights a week from midnight till 7am I d get home — shower and go to college. Gradually I advanced out from under the engine to inside it. I changed tne traction motor brushes. One day I just happened to look outside and saw some guys — greaseless and having fun. I went out and asked them "How do I get a joD like yours?" He told me to see the Road Foreman of Engines. I went in and told him I wanted a chance to better myself and to become a locomotive engineer — He told me I'd have to pass a physical and an examination to become a Hostler (the guy who puts the engines on the trains in the roadhouse) I studied, took tne exam and passed — for 5 years I hostled locomotives, and was promoted to locomotive engineer on August 8th, 1973. In September they were interviewing people for a management job. The Superintendent called to let me know that I nad been selected as the new Road Foreman of Engines on the Utah Division. It was a promotion but I knew I would miss being out there all the time with the people who actually run the train. I never had a toy train as a child and really enjoyed having my own big train set. Running a train with 7 locomotives — each pulling 4,000 horse power is an exhilarating experience. At times a train can be V/i miles long. You can't see the end of it but a good engineer can feel the end. I've worked for the railroad for 21 years and love it — working is a necessity — but when you love your work it's like playing a game and winning all the time.

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Kiona Ualesi aka Floyd Scanlan: Professional Body Builder. San Diego, California

Robin Leamy: Competition Swimmer. Los Angeles, California

Frank Toto'a Manumaleuna: Community Worker. Carson, California

I was born in Apia on April 1,1961, to Brian William Leamy and Vini-Poulio-Fata Leamy, the youngest of 3, and the only male. While visiting the islands from New Zealand, my father had fallen in love with, and eventually married my mother, an "island girl". Being proud of both my New Zealand and Samoan heritage, I regret never having met my Mom's parents. Both passed away before I was born. Mom's father was Norman Hursthouse Macdonald, who like my father, was a New Zealander who had fallen in love with a Samoan girl and had made the islands his home. My grandmother was Su'esu'e Pouili-o-Fata Tuiasau. My great grandmother was Falenaoti Fa'amelea Tuala Vaauli Tamalelagi, who witn my great grandfather Tuiasau Taulauniu Luteru, originally came from Vaisala in Savai'i. When I was 4, my family relocated in Pago, as my father took a position with Star Kist. This turned out to be the first of many moves as Dad's responsibilities grew within the company. My first school days were spent at the Marist Brother's School. Memories of childhood in Pago are of carefree, funfilled days, playing in lush green vegetation, and swimming at "two dollar beach". Thinking back on it today, that whole environment was ideal for a young active boy to grow in. Grades 3,4 and 5 were spent in Puerto Rico, as part of Star Kist's relocation plan. My sisters and I attended a Spanish speaking school, and as a result are fluent in that language. For my sixth grade we were back in Samoa, where I attended Fiailoa School. One more stint in Puerto Rico for 7th and 8th grade, and our nomad family finally settled in Los Angeles, where we still reside. I was 13 and ready for high school. It was then that I began my swimming career, a passion which continued for 10 years and culminated at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games. My college days were spent at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where in addition to obtaining a solid education, I was able to develop my swimming potential. Being competitive by nature, it was through swimming that I came to channel my competitiveness. I learned to set goals and experience the sacrifice involved in achieving them. Perhaps because of my athletic success, I've developed a deeply optimistic outlook. A person can achieve almost anything if they set their mind and heart on it. The worst thing a person can do to themselves is to have a dream, and not make it reality. As "Americanized" as I suppose I have become, Samoa is never far from my thoughts. When I think of home, I think of beaches, palm trees, the culture, and especially aiga (family). Samoans are the greatest family people in the world. The feeling of togetherness, pride, and love that surfaces when aiga gather is truly special. Whenever I read or hear about a Samoan in the news, excelling in their field, I feel that a family member has achieved something special. The greatest strength is knowing where you come from, and taking pride in it. Samoa now has many sons and daughters around the world. Hopefully none will ever forget their roots.

I was born in Laie, Hawaii on May 9th, 1956 to Tuileata and Alofa'aga Manumaleuna from the village of Malaeloa, Tutuila. I am one of 6 children, 3 boys and 3 girls: Valila, loane "Big John", Teuila, Jay Sifagaloa, and Olive Alofa'aga. My family left Laie, Hawaii to move to Carson, California in the Fall of 1962. I started school in Carson and later attended Catskill Elementary, Wilmington Junior High, and Banning High School all in our area. In high school I excelled in sports and was given a student-athlete football scholarship to the University of California, Los Angeles. After 2 years at that prestigious university, I moved on to San Jose State University, California. Then in 1979,1 was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fourth round. I played 3 years with them as a linebacker. And from 1983 to 1985,1 played for the Oakland Invader« and the Portland Breakers in the United States Football League. During those years of trying to maintain excellence on the field, I still had unfinished business back home in Carson. Community service to the youths of Samoa became very much a part of my life during the off-season. I worked for the City of Carson, Parks ana Recreation Department, as a counselor and organized sports clinics. My desire to go into the field of community service was instilled in me by my older brother Big John. He taught me not only to play sports but how to use athletics as a vehicle for education. Big John was a leader and motivator in our community. He founded the Samoan Athletes in Action, a group of amateur and professional Samoan athletes who contributed their time and money for youth in California, Hawaii, and Samoa. Even though he passed away in 1980, his presence is still felt in the community hall named after him and in the programs the young people enjoy. After his death I took over as Chairman of the Samoan Athletes in Action. Together with other concerned athletes we try to be stepping stones, helping young people to set and accomplish meaningful goals.

I was born at Moto'otua, Upolu on March 21st, 1957. My father Torise Sam Scanlan comes from Fasito'otai, Upolu and my mother Mataniu Sao is from Leone, Tutuila. I attended Midkiff Elementary and Leone High School and won a football scholarship to Missouri State. I played there from 1977-79, transferred to UCLA 1979-80 and Long Beach State 1981 as a linebacker. I injured my knee in 1981 and that finished my football career. I started to go to the gym. My friends thought I was already a body builder. My cousin knew a fellow who owned a health club so I was able to go free. I didn't know what I was doing when I first went but it made me feel good. I went 5 days a week. It was work, hard work, but the results were rewarding. I felt better, I looked better and my thinking was clearer. These are my before and after measurements, wt —225 wt — 260-270 ht-6'3" ht-6'3" shoulders - 51 - 59 biceps-16 — 231/2 chest-52 - 59-61 waist-31 -33 thighs-25 -31 calves-18 -22y2 In 19821 won the title Mr L.A. This victory only made me more determined to keep going. I wanted to prove that Samoans could do it. That same year I competed in Mr Southern California and took 1st place and Mr America AAU again — 1st place. In 19831 was married and moved to San Diego. There I designed gym equipment for Iron Company. Before my next competition I met Lou Ferrigno. He gave me some great advice about my diet and how to develop my calves. The secret was to work them almost daily and to ride a bicycle for a split definition. He also told me to compete only once a year — you've got to maintain your size otherwise you are dieting, dieting, dieting to cut up but you lose your bulk. In 19841 won Mr Northern California. The newspapers called me the "Growing Samoan." The following year, I won Mr San Diego. For that competition I wore a lavalava (sarong) and posed to the Samoan song by the same name. I didn't compete in Mr California because I was in a friend's wedding party that day. I waited for the Mr America contest in Reno in April 1986. Lou's gym sponsored me and bought my clothes and paid my plane fare and entry fee. I came 4th in the heavy weight. In the future I hope to compete in a lot more competitions — Mr America, Mr Universe, even Mr Olympia. I want to show that Samoans can really do it.

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Wallace (Wally) Alifua Rank: Professional Basketball Player. Los Angeles, California I was born on the 1st of March, 1958. My mother is Gagana Aliifua of Fagatogo, Tutuila and my father is Uiese Loa Tausaga of Olosega, Manu'a. Aliifua is my mom's father's name. He came from Aunu'u, an island off Tutuila. I've always loved playing basketball and my passion for the sport just kept on growing as I did. By the time I reached Carson High in Los Angeles I was well over 6 foot. I'm now 6'5" and weigh 225 lbs. From Carson I went to San Jose State University because a fellow Samoan, Wilson Faumuina was there. He recruited me. Wilson was so well known that everyone at San Jose knew about Samoa. I didn't want to go to a school where I'd have to explain what I was every day. D>

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I guess I did OK because in 1980 the San Diego Clippers of the National Basketball Association (NBA) drafted me in the 4th round. I soon realized that while professional basketball is a sport it's also a business. Of the 19 people at the training camp, 10 had guaranteed contracts. That meant that 10 of us were fighting for one spot. I thank God that I made it. Unfortunately the next year the team was sold to a new owner. He told Coach Silas that he wanted a whole new look. Well 7 of us weren't invited back. That season the team had the worst record in the history of the franchise. The next year I went to Italy to play. I stayed there for a season and came home to play in the Summer Pro League in LA. I led the League, scoring 36 points a game and was signed by the LA Lakers. I played a wnile for them, was eventually released, and then played in the Philippines. During the years I was playing ball professionally I was partying a lot and living in the fast lane. I've lived tnat life and now I'm done with it. The biggest thing that has ever happened to me was when I accepted Jesus as my savior, was born again and turned my life around. I recently joined the Athletes in Action, a Christian group of professional athletes who travel throughout the U.S. and foreign lands. Our goal is to talk with young people helping them to understand our committment to our religion and a Christian life. A lot of things have happened to me in my life that I don't understand. Some of them just seem unfair. Since I've accepted Christ I've gained a real peace of mind. But when I die I've got a lot of questions I'm going to ask.

In 19741 made All Metro, All California and All American for Junior Colleges. After that I was recruited by some 20 schools, finally deciding on UCLA so that I could stay home. My older brother needed help witn my mom and I had 3 younger brothers to worry about. In 19761 was chosen Associated Press and United Press All American. That same year I was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles. Over the next 9 years I played for the Chicago Bears, the San Francisco 49ers, the Detroit Lions, and the Miami Dolphins. I met a lot of good people whom I consider family. They were wonderful years. But in 19851 decided I had had enough football. That same year I was taking my daughter Tasi for a bike ride. She fell asleep and her head was lolling all over the place. I tied her back to the seat with my jacket and rode on home. Over the next two weeks I got together with a friend trying to design a redinable child's seat. We built our first prototype and patented it. My partner and I made several trips to China to negotiate the production of the Lazy Rider Reclineable Infant Carrier. It's a long way from professional football but it's exciting and it's a whole new ball game.

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Greg Louganis: World and Olympic Diving Champion. Maliou, California

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Terry Tautolo: Inventor. Long Beach, California I was born on August 30th, 1954 in Corona, California. My mother was the late Fa'amaise Matila of Aunu'u and my father Fa'avae Tautolo is from the same island. I was the second of 5 boys. I started playing flag footDall in elementary school. There were sprinklers in one area. I learned to twist and turn to avoid them. It was good practice for avoiding tackles. In Junior High I played flag football (a 7 man team.) I was a halfback. We were called the Cecil B. De Mille Knights! In the 8th grade my mom had a devastating stroke. She became a quadraplegic. She couldn't even whisper. All she could do was nod. My dad, my 4 brothers and I took care of her. In high school I played offensive and defensive tackle, both ways. There was no rest. My football coach also had a wrestling team but with no heavyweights. So he recruited me for the job. This helped with my weight and taught me how far I could push myself. If I thought playing offensive and defensive football was tiring I was mistaken. I worked harder at wrestling and in 1972,1 took first place in our league and came 7th in California. I graduated from high school and was offered a full scholarship to the University of Oregon, but turned it down. I didn't feel I was good enough to play that Kind of ball and I wanted to stay close to my mom. I went to Long Beach City College and played there in 1973-74. My first year I was an offensive guard — 265 lbs. That summer I ran and played a lot of basketball and dropped to 225 and was moved to nose guard and linebacker. That is where I excelled, I seemed to have had a "nose for the ball."

• Member of the U.S. National Diving Team since 1976 • Silver Medalist in platform diving at the 1976 Olympic Games (at age 16) • Three time NCAA Diving Champion • Eight time World Champion (both platform and springboard) • Gold Medalist in three meter springboard and platform events at the 1979 and 1983 Pan American Games • Only diver to ever score a perfect 10 in national and international competition • Winner of 41 U.S. National Titles — more than anyone in history • Winner of the AAU James E. Sullivan Award for his performance at the 1984 Olympic Games (Amateur Athlete of the Year) • Only diver to break the 700 point barrier on ten meter platform (1984 Olympic Games 710.91) • First diver to win both springboard and platform events at four Olympic Trials (1976,1980,1984,1988) • First male double Gold Medalist in back-to-back Olympic Games (springboard and platform events, 1984 and 1988). • University of California, Irvine graduate with a major in drama, and a major in dance • Inducted into the prestigious Olympic Hall of Fame in 1985 Height: 5'9" Weight: 160 Birthdate: January 29,1960 Geneology: Samoan and Caucasian Birthplace: San Diego, California

Lt. Victor Siaki Liu: Law Enforcement. Los Angeles, California Occasionally my father has reminded me that the day of my birth, August 20th was one of those rare and clear, crystal-like mornings that come only after God had spent a whole day and part of the night diligently washing His Earth's dusty face with cleansing, tropical rain. On that morning, in 1936 or 1937,1 was born. The place was Tafuna, a small village community of about 7 family groups, on Tutuila. I am the fifth, but second son, of 11 children — 8 girls and 3 boys, including my adopted brother, "Jack" Siakisone. We, Samoans, have a unique way of identifying ourselves to others. To make identification complete and meaningful, our "roots" must be included. Hence, permit me to introduce my "roots — my parents and grandparents. They have all passed away. My father was Togimanu, son of Leututu Liu of Vaitogi and Faaomumu Leomiti of Pava'ia'i, Tutuila. Togimanu grew up in Pago Pago ana joined the U.S. Navy's "Fitafita". He met and married my motner, Saipai Levi, a beautiful nurse who was serving at the first hospital in Fagatogo. I never met my maternal grandparents — Selaina of the Moliga family in Ta'u and Levi of Moso family in Olosega, Manu'a. They were missionaries — spending all their lives in the LMS mission in New Guinea. It is quite coincidental that I am writing this piece on August 20,1987 — my 50th birthday (or 51st). I live in Simi Valley, California, with my family: my beautiful wife Virginia Montero, and two handsome and beautiful children — Gregory Victor, 20 years of age, and Veronica Rose, 17. I am a Lieutenant of the Los Angeles Police Department and the Director of the Community Relations Section, Office of the Chief of Police. Being a member of the Cnief's personal staff, I have both command and administrative responsibilities. Most important of these is that of advising the Chief of Police and the Department's command staff as to the present state of community attitudes and opinions, tensions and their sources. I became a member of the finest and the top police department in the world, bar none. I was visiting my aunt in Los Angeles in 1961 while awaiting military orders from the Navy Department. Looking for something to occupy my time I read an advertisement about joining the LAPD. That "time-occupyingsomething" has held my interest ana loyalty for over 25 years. I started my career with the LAPD like any other police officer. I attended the Police Academy. After graduation, I started patrolling the streets of the second largest city in the United States. Since that time, I have had a wide variety in staff ana managerial assignments. My academic makeup is a fission and fusion of practical and formal education. In brevity's interest, I have certificates of completion of various courses and special schools in police leadership and management principles and of public administration from the University or Southern California, and the University of California, Los Angeles. I received a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from the Glendale University College of Law in 1969 and was admitted to the California bar in 1971.1 accomplished that by attending law classes in the evening. By the time I graduated, I owed a lot of money to the L.A. Police Credit Union. I am an alumnus of the Marist Brothers school, and of the Samoana High School, Class of 1955, via the G.E.D. process. I entered Samoana High in 1950 as the youngest and tiniest student, barely 13 years old, 5'3" and about 115 pounds of "trail bones and hide" as Brother Herman, a teacher at the Marist Brothers school had often described me. Besides my father, he was the most influential person in shaping and molding my life. He knew what motivated me and how! Brother Herman often chided me that I was going to be a "jailbird" before my 20th birthday and would die of tuberculosis before my 25th. I knew all along,

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that he cared very much. When vacationing in Tutuila in 1961,1 visited him. He was not in good health. I told him about having graduated with a bachelor's degree and starting law school. When I kidded him about his horrific predictions, he looked at me with utter seriousness and said, "I knew you were too proud to believe them." I told him how I felt about him. Before I returned to the U.S., I went back to say good bye. I knew it was going to be our last meeting. A few years later, he passed away. What was I doing during my first 7 years of life? I remember those days so vividly. In February, 1942,2 platoons of U.S. Marines arrived. We gave them quite a welcome — a feast of roast pigs, chicken, cooked bananas, taros, fish — the usual Samoan festivity menu. I instantly became an "adopted" Marine — a mascot! I was almost 5 then. I marched with them, stood with them during morning inspections and evening assemblies. They even had a special " b u n k " for me. I was always first in mess (chow) line. Sometimes we would go for a whole week on training exercises. While my brother and sisters and cousins went to school, I went everywhere with the Marines. My father told me that I didn't have to go to school if I didn't choose to, so I didn't! I acquired quite a vocabulary and used to show off, pretending to carry on a conversation in English with Marine friends, or opened a magazine and pretended to-read. I was forced to go to school by a carefully calculated incident. My "educated" sisters and cousins conspired against me. What the "conspirators" conjured up was to have an inscription in English on my sister Katie's birthday cake and to challenge me to read it when everyone gathered around. I left the room defeated and humiliated. But, what they did change was my attitude about school and education. I vowed that I was going to school and would graduate before them, knowing that they were 2 to 3 years ahead of me. Well, I did it! I made it through the first 6 grades of school in three. I graduated with my eldest sister Pale, and I was the first in the class. My sisters Anita and Isapela, and 3 other cousins, all older than I, were still in tne Vaitogi Elementary when I left. To me, it was not merely an achievement! It was justice!!

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William Hughes Sauatauseuatoa Cravens: Businessman. Los Angeles, California There were probably few Samoans born outside of Samoa in 1941. On July 7th of that year, in Vallejo, California, I may have been the only one. That uniaueness is nothing profound in world annals, but it is the mentality of my mother, Noanoa (Noanoalevaefagaloa) Soliai, and of her family, her village, ner island, and her heritage: that my birth, and the birth of her otner children, may have profound significance in future events. I never really understood my mother's unrelenting push to perform well until I went to Samoa for the first time 22 years later. She was raised in a household where matters of state, religion, village politics and leadership were discussed, debated, argued and decided in a regular on-going basis. To see my mother and her family in action, in a Samoan environment, was evidence to me why it was natural for them to expect one's children to aspire to the highest positions. It was a responsibility of the family to take the lead wherever it was needed. No job or task was too large. Whatever had to be done would get done.

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I grew up with those expectations. As did my mother, and her parents. My grandfather, Pinemua (he held the Soliai title from 1926 to 1978), was the son of High Chief Muliufi Soliai and Si'itia Te'o. My grandmother, Vaofu'a, was the daughter of High Chief Misipope Su'apaia and Vaofu'a Fuimaono. The genealogies of my grandparents connect me to nearly every village in Samoa. I grew up in California, but my roots to Samoa were always there. The many wonderful stories about my family and ancestors made Savai'i, Apia, Pago Pago and Nu' uuli my home. My parents were separated before I was 4 years old and my mother never remarried. My palagi (European) side is a wonderful side, but I only saw my father a few times in my life. For 4 years I was the starting quarterback at the University of Utah. But when I left it was no wonder that I took my wife Karen and two daughters, Susan Noanoa and Valerie Atiitasi, to Samoa. That was a long time ago and today we have 13 children. And it is also no wonder that I became so deeply involved in the affairs of family, church, industry and government. In the M o r m o n Church I was the first Bishop of Nuu'uli Ward and eventually became the President of Pago Pago Stake. My association with the business community of Samoa continues through family and business contact. I was the Director of Economic Development and Planning for the government and when I left Samoa I was the Chairman and President of the American Samoa Development Bank. I served on numerous committees and commissions and worked on a regional basis with other islands as well as the U.S. government. In 19751 was asked by our church to run the Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawaii. It was a traumatic move for me and my family. We had no intentions of moving and were not looking for a new job. However, we thought it was the right thing to do and spent tne next 8 years working with all the major Polynesian groups in an amazing and wonderful setting. The Polynesian Cultural Center is tne most successful tourist attraction in Hawaii and it is an idea that has not been duplicated anywhere. The idea is so good that when I left the Polynesian Cultural Center I decided to do cultural centers around the world. Centers that would showcase other cultures, and like the Polynesian Center, have the people of those cultures do the entertaining and demonstrations. A company has been organized to develop this concept and active work has taken place for centers in Singapore, China, Los Angeles, Mexico and Maui, Hawaii. Like every Samoan I am proud of my people and culture. Cultural centers could be established in nearly any country in the world and would add to a people's understanding and appreciation of their own race as well as showing the ever growing visitor industry a wonderful experience.

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Jeremiah Taimi Malumaleumu: Linguist, Teacher. Torrance, California In 1953, Taimi Malumaleumu of Pago Pago, Tutuila, met and married Eileen McMoore of Utulei, Tutuila, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Two years later, the first of their 4 children Jeremiah, was born on February 9th, in Tripler Army Hospital. Because my father was in the Navy, the first 8 years of my life were ones of constant relocation; from Honolulu to Norfolk, Virginia, San Diego, California, back to Honolulu and finally in 1963, we settled in Torrance, California.. We have lived here ever since.

I attended Van Deene Elementary School (Torrance, CA), Stephan M. White Junior High School (Carson, CA) and Garaena High School (Gardena, CA). All three are part of the second largest school district in the United States, the Los Angeles Unified School District. When I was 9, my parents sent me to piano school. By age 13,1 was good enough to play for our cnurch. Today I'm the choir director for the First Samoan Congregational Christian Church Youth Choir of San Diego. It means driving several hundred miles a week but it's something I enjoy very much. M y college education was completed at California State University, Long Beach. Initially I majored in Political Science but changed to foreign languages during my sophomore year. My interest in languages nad its beginning with my mother's Samoan language instruction when I was young. M y maternal grandmother, Su'eifo Tlvao Punimata of Olosega, Manu a, taught'me how to speak Niuean. Yes, I have the blood of Samoan, Irish, and Niuean ancestors flowing within me. That started my interest in languages. Once I'd mastered English, Samoan, and Niuean, I went on to learn Spanish, Portuguese, French, Tagalog, Greek, Russian, German and Dutch. Presently I'm a Spanish instructor at Chatsworth High School in the San Fernando Valley, northwest of Los Angeles. It isn't always easy, but it is gratifying and I'm using a talent I was blessed with. My contact with other cultures instilled in me a great respect for my own Samoan culture. While I was a child, I sometimes resented the 'fa'a-Samoa," and the discipline I didn't understand. But thanks to the persistence of my parents and grandmothers, my siblings and I learned a lot about our Samoan culture and traditions and today we are proud of our heritage.

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Patch Mackenzie Cutler: Actress. Hollywood, California I was born in NYC on March 5 (actresses never tell the year). My father, Lawrence A. Glesnes was a documentary film producer who won an award for his direction of a Red Cross training film. My mother was a ballroom dancer who helped Fred Astaire start his teaching studios. When I was 3,1 went to visit my grandmother, Mary Swan Croudace, in Apia, Upolu. Known throughout the Pacific as Aunty Mary. She managed the Casino Hotel for many years and was awarded The Gold Cross by the Pope for devoting her life to humanitarianism. She is the daughter of Pele and William Swann, the first English chemist to come to Samoa. He became a close friend of Robert Louis Stevenson. One of Mary's sisters is Aggie, of the famous Aggie Grey's Hotel in Apia. Mary brought me back to America where we lived in Houston. I was around 4 when I contracted ringworm, a highly contagious disease which precluded my having any playmates. For a whole year I was alone most of the time, in my room with my dolls and imaginery playmates until I was cured. M y grandmother became my only playmate. She took me to the movies every Wednesday and Saturday afternoon which began my life long love affair with the screen. We moved to New York when I was seven. There Grandma introduced me to the Broadway stage and continued to hook me on the movies. We used to buy a barbecue chicken and a loaf of French bread and would picnic Samoan style in the back row of the theater. t >

Page 125 Right Top and Bottom When I was 15,1 lied and said I was 16 so that I could work that summer as an apprentice at The Playhouse on the Mall in Paramus, New Jersey. Our first show was "Mister Roberts". We had a live goat and guess who was in charge of it? The noted author, Robert Ludlaw, was tne producer. He used to pass me backstage when I was shoveling up behind the eoat and throw his arms up exclaiming, "Ah, one of the stars of tomorrow!' Those words of encouragement kept me shoveling sans pay for another two weeks. During high school and college at Carnegie Mellon, I won acting trophies, medals and blue ribbons for the category of Dramatic Interpretation at universities all over the East Coast, including the highest marks ever given an actress at The Temple University Speech Festival. When I returned to New York, I continued my training at The Juilliard School of Music and The Herbert Berghof Studios. One day I was in an elevator with a man named Bill Parrott. He stared at me for 10 floors before asking if I was an actress. "Am I an actress? Do birds have wings?" The next day, I screen tested for him in the streets of Greenwich Village. The following Monday, I was starring opposite Martin Sheen and Michael Dunn in my first feature, "Tne Apple Man . Unfortunately, Michael wasn't well and he died before the film was completed. It was never released. I auditioned for the director Richard Donner for an episode of "Kojack". Mr Donner, director of "The Omen", "Superman", etc., told me that I was totally wrong for the role in question but encouraged me to come to Hollywood to work. Unless he reads this book, he'll never know what an influence he had on me. The irony is that once I arrived in Los Angeles, I never had the opportunity to audition for him again. I feel confident that he just hasn't had a role for me yet and that one day he will give me a chance. Soon after I arrived in Hollywood, I was selected by NBC as one of the most promising new talents. I was introduced along with 9 other hopefuls on a TV "Special" hosted by Bob Hope called "The Stars of Tomorrow". So Robert Ludlaw was right after all. I did several guest roles on "Mash", "Barretta", "The Waltons", "Kojack", "PBS", "Charlie's Angels" and a few independent features. One day I received a call from Paramount for an audition to replace an actress co-starring opposite Martin Mull and Tuesday Weld in a film called "Serial". After that, I was a regular on the soap opera "Days of Our Lives", appeared on "General Hospital" and played a lawyer opposite Walter Mathau in tne movie, "House Calls", guest shots on "Magnum P.I.", "Charlie's Angels", "Chico & the Man", "Taxi', etc. Finally I got another part in a feature film "Fighting Back" with Tom Skerrit. A special guest appearance on "The Young and the Restless" got national attention on network news when Jerry Falwell singled it out as one of the steamiest on TV! In 19861 was Elliott Gould's spoiled second wife, "The Fabulous Phyllis", on the short lived comedy series, "E/R" and since then, have continued to guest star on shows such as "Falcon Crest", "The New Love American Style" and the Emmy winning series, "A Year in the Life", with Richard Kiley and Morgan Stevens. I also co-starred opposite Monte Markham and David Oliver in an independent feature entitled "Defense Play". I always said that my acting career felt like a lover that I couldn't live with and couldn't live without because the highs are so high and the lows so low. To live with the constant rejection and disappointments on a daily, weekly and yearly basis is very painful, but each time I'm hired again to make love to the camera, it's like a ' fix". Once hooked, it is near impossible to kick the "habit".

There is a saying in the industry that all you need to make it in Hollywood is a dozen good breaks. I am now living in BeiAir, California with my wonderful husband, Steven Cutler, a financial consultant with Cutler, Walton Financial in Beverly Hills. No children and two cats. Interests are decorating, skiing and spending my husband's money while I continue to wait for the 12th big break. Perhaps it will come from Richard Donner.

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Aloali'i George Palelei: Casting Director. Hollywood, California I was born in Nu'uuli, Tutuila on April 5th, 1957, the middle of 13 children. My dad is Siaki Palelei from Masina, Fagaloa, Upolu and my mom is Tofoe Tagilelaei of Nu'uuli, Tutuila. I nave two sets of grandparents on my father's side because he was adopted by the Soliai family in Nu'uuli. When I was 6 months old my dad's parents took me to Fagaloa. I didn't return to Tutuila until I was 5 when I went to live with Grandpa Soliai in Nu'uuli. Growing up with grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins was a wonderful experience. I'd lilce my children to have the same. I attended Marist Brothers School at Atu'u, Tutuila until the fifth grade when we moved to Los Angeles and Carson High School. It was a lot or fun, but it was also a very difficult time. In school I had to contend with American society, at home we were being raised the Samoan way. Dad was the retired head of the Motor Pool in Tutuila where he'd worked for 33 years. He was a master mechanic and opened a gas station in L.A. It was my dad's dream that I would take over from him. I soon learned that I couldn't live in his dreams, I had to make my own come true. Mine was to attend college, UCLA. I did so part-time until I was able to pay my way. I wasn't a particularly Bright student but I sure worked hard. I graduated with a CPF, Certified Financial Planner and went to work for Shearson Lehman Brothers. After 5 years I resigned to make the transition from Wall Street to Hollywood. Snearson owns Belcor, a subsidiary that specializes in raising venture capital for limited partnerships in real estate and films. Belcor in turn raises funds for New World Pictures which produces feature films and television. "The Deer Hunter was the first project I worked on that became a box office success. In 19861 landed a job doing extra casting for DISC Entertainment. That year I was involved witH'Top Gun" "Beverly Hills Cop II,""The Golden Child,"" " La Bamba," "Who's That Girl," and " Lethal Weapon." Casting has given me an opportunity to enhance my knowledge of the film industry. It's the best possible training ground for a writer-producer. Last year I was the Associate Producer for Perfume, Knights and Angel in Green. Currently I am working on three projects, two untitled, tne third "Side Out" is in development at Paramount. My ultimate goal is to write and produce my own films. The Samoan culture has so much to offer, the possibilities are tremendous.

Bob Apisa: Stuntman. Hollywood, California I was born in Fagatogo, Tutuila on June 4th, 1945. My father Tai Apisa came from Manu'a. He's from the Asuega family but decided to use his dad's name as the family name. My mom is Laina McMoore. She has a little Chinese and Scotch in her. We moved to Honolulu in 1952. Dad was in the Fitafita, an offshoot of the Navy. I didn't really know him until I was 7. He was away in the Korean conflict. My mom headed the family. We were 8 boys and 3 girls. She had been married to Jack Thompson Sr. earlier and I have 2 older brothers and a sister from that marriage. My formafeducation beean in a military school, Pearl Harbor Kai Elementary. In the second grade I was infatuated with a palagi (European) girl, to whom I muttered my first words of English, "kiss me". Aside from that momentous performance, I spoke almost no English and understood less. The teacher would read to us, "Run Dick, run." Not understanding I watched my classmates and when they laughed, I laughed. I remember feeling guilty ana very insecure. Halfway through the year my parents were notified that I was being put back a year. It didn't bother me at tne time, all I was interested in was jumping in the lunch line and waiting for recess. But it bothered my parents a lot. Mom cried her eyes out and beat the crap out of me. Then and there I was confronted with my first dilemma of growing up. I certainly didn't want to be an embarrassment to my parents. In the Samoan culture the very first thing you are taught is never to embarrass your family, never! Your job is to make them proud. They couldn't understand what I was going through. They hadn't had much education themselves. In those days there weren't any nigh schools in Tutuila. In time I caught on and mastered my A, B, C and 1 +1. But to my mom, I was a failure. As I got older I went off on my own. On weekends I'd cut out of the house before mom woke up, play all day and come back at 6 in the evening, knowing that the belt was waiting. I paid the price but needed to exercise my freedom as a young man. I was with all kinds of kids, even if they weren't the Samoans I was told to play with. My mom couldn't understand my being with Japanese, Portuguese, ana Haoles (whites) and was afraid of an influence she didn't understand. She always had reasons all fired up why I shouldn't do this and that. It was so annoying to me that I became very rebellious in my own silent little world. I made up my mind to maintain the status quo until I could cut the umbilical cord and get on with my life. Sports provided the out. My older brother Bill was playing football and baseball and did well. Since he was successful Mom decided that we were all going into sports. Along I came, saddled with a lot of big shoes to fill. It was a scary point in my life but I'd absorbed enough cultural lessons by that time and was relentless in my attempt to succeed, to make my parents proud of me. I don't want to go into all my accolades at Farrington High School. Many Samoan kids are good in sports. I was fortunate that a lot of good people, my coaches and teacners who helped me achieve enough athletic awards and academic skills that I was accepted by several universities. I decided that if I were going to go to college and get my butt kicked in football, I was going to the toughest conference tnere was, the Big Ten. Michigan State was a different climate, time zone, culture, another world. I went with hesitation and apprehension for I didn't know if I could cut the mustard, but I believed in myself.

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Before I left I had to contend with a lot of skeptics in Hawaii. I came from a public high school and I wasn't supposed to be going to a major university. The prediction was that I'd only last one auarter, if homesickness didn't get me then my grades would. Those people didn t know it but they gave me a lot of motivation. More than anything else I wanted to show them that I could do it. So despite 20 degree below zero weather, 8 a.m. classes 5 days a week, I trudged through snow in my U.S. Ked's tennis shoes, dungarees, a Farrington High School jacket and T-shirt to get my college education. I am very proud of what happened there. I was with some of the greatest ball players, Bubba Smith, George Webster, Clinton Jones and Mad Doe Thornhill. Although I was one little pea in a great big pod, through Goa's help I was successful, setting sophomore records for Michigan State. I scored a touchdown the second time I was given the ball and after my fifth game I was the second or third leading scorer in the country. I remember my first interview. I came into the locker room, took off my shoulder pads, sat down and turned around. There were 30 or 40 newspaper reporters with microphones, popping it to me. "Aren't you from Hawaii?' "No, I live in Hawaii, but I'm from Samoa." 'What's Samoa?" Believe it or not a lot of Midwestern writers didn't know Samoa was in the vocabulary. By the end of the season we were undefeated and ranked #1 in the nation. Look Magazine did an article on me. People learned where Samoa was. In November, 1966 we played Notre Dame for the National Championship. Up until then games were televised a week late in Hawaii. I'm proud to nave been instrumental in a part of history. Hawaii invested in a satellite connection and for the first time a game was telecast live and direct. Well, I got my Bachelor's degree and set my eyes on a Master's, which I am also the proud owner of. When I came back to Hawaii, those guys who used to tease me because I flunked a grade while acculturating, were so embarrassed, most of them only had a high school diploma. I wanted to make it to the Pros but I'd had 3 knee operations by my senior year. I was overwhelmed when I got a call from Pete Roselle. I'd been drafted by the Super Bowl Champions, the Green Bay Packers. I met the great Vince Lombardi and stayed a year, but my football days were over. My knees were gone. I came home to Hawaii and worked in the Governor's office where I became an instant bureaucrat and learned to handle things with more patience. But political life also taught me how to tell white lies so it was a nasty thing. I didn't enjoy it and after a while I'd had enough. Somewhere along the way I did a shot on Hawaii 5-0. When I saw my first check I realized that it took me 2 weeks behind a desk to make as much as one hour in front of a camera. Acting was fun but I had a dying need to let out my abundance of energy. I put my acting and physical skills together and became a stuntman. I've been doing it for over 18 years now. A lot of wonderful things have happened to me playing in front of 100,000 fans, the Rose Bowl, on TV. But one of tne most memorable was the game against Notre Dame, November 1965.1 was sitting in the locker room with my teammates, getting ready. There was a Samoan kid attending some college in Iowa. He caught a train, spent every nickel he had to get to Soutn Bend, Indiana. He was so proud that there was a Samoan playing. He got to the stadium. No money, but there weren't any tickets anyhow. The game was sold out months ago. He asked a security guard where our locker room was. The minute the guard turned his back he made a mad dash for the door, broke it in and ran towards us with 3 or 4 security guards in pursuit. He got to the locker room as they were collaring him. He called

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out "Sole" (fellow Samoan). I was being taped. My teammates were in a trance, preparing to do battle. Coach Duffy was pacing the floor. The kid called louder, 'SOLE". I saw the commotion and went over to the coach and said, "I think I've got a home boy over there." The kid had fear on his face and tears in his eyes, knowing he'd be put in jail for trespassing. I went over and he came to me speaking Samoan. It was almost like meeting a long lost loved one. We embraced. I spoke Samoan to him and he cried. He said, "I don't have any money but I'm so proud of you I just wanted to watch you play." I was so moved I spoke witn the coach. He arranged for the kid to sit next to me on the bench. During the game I'd go on the field and do my thing and come back to the bench and we talked in Samoan. What a moving experience. I felt proud as a player, proud as a Samoan, and proud as a human being.

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Pat Luce: Govenor's Representative. San Francisco, California I feel I am a product of two worlds. I am very much Samoan and also Western, having been born in Tutuila but raised by American parents in Sacramento, California. I feel fortunate that I have learned to Know and value both cultures. My parents taught me at an early age to be truthful to myself and to move back ana forth comfortably between Samoan and Western cultures. I think it is because my parents helped me to value the richness of my varied experiences that I can do the work I now do both as the Executive Director of the National Office of Samoan Affairs and as the Governor's Representative for the American Samoa Governor's Liaison Office in San Francisco. I come from a family in which service and leadership in church and community affairs are a tradition. My great grandfather came from the Saaga family in Upolu . My great grandmother came from the Matiu family who gave the Malua land to the early London Missionary Society Church. The Church established its headquarters on that land in Upolu. My grandfather in Tutuila, a member of the Levi family, started the Congregational Church of Jesus in Tutuila. I was born in Fagatogo, Tutuila and adopted at the age of 2 by American missionaries, the Rev Maurice and Corabelle Luce. I received a strong grounding in the Samoan way of life during my early childhood in Tutuila. In 1952,1 came with my parents to their Sacramento home where I attended elementary and secondary school. I continued my education at California State University's Sacramento campus where I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology. I then received a Master of Science degree in counseling from the University of California at Davis. It was while I was planning to enroll in a doctoral program at the University of California at Berkeley that I first became aware of the role I might play in the Samoan and Pacific Islander communities. At the recommendation of a friend who was a consultant on Native American affairs for the Department of Education, I visited the Department when I came down to look at Berkeley. I was told that a Samoan Chief who was on his way to Washington would be meeting with the Regional Director. They asked me to sit in on the meeting. I saw a forceful, articulate spokesman for Pacific Island concerns. He encouraged me to become more involved in my community and made me realize the importance of organizing and making our issues known. Little did I realize how important in my life this chance meeting would be!

By the spring of 1976,1 was holding meetings to organize an advocacy group for Samoan and Pacific Island needs. By July, 1976,1 had helped to incorporate the National Office of Samoan Affairs (NOSA). I just learned as I went along. At first, I went from agency to agency trying to find out what services were available. Currently, NOSA is the only agency on tne mainland administered by indigenous Native American Pacific Islanders that has been able to access federal and state funds for our community. Gathering the necessary data and developing funding proposals to make this happen has certainly taught me about bureaucracies! The work during my first 2 years as Executive Director of NOSA was primarily to develop community networks and identify community needs. In this work, my understanding of botn Samoan and Western cultures was particularly valuable. I recognized tnat the oral Samoan culture, while extremely valuable in our family and community lives, did not allow for the accumulation of written data about our people that was needed in order to get technical assistance and economic resources. So, I used a Health and Human Services needs assessment of the Pacific Island communities in California as a departure point for NOSA's research and programmatic work. Since that time, NOSA has designed and implemented many research and training programs, seminars and conferences dealing with issues relating to the American Samoa community. The success of NOSA paved the way for a broader role in the Samoan community serving as the Governor's Representative in our newly established American Samoan Governor's Liaison Office in San Francisco, working for the Honorable A. P. Lutali. I now wear 2 hats, both directly related to work with the Samoan communities on the mainland and in American Samoa. The roles are very closely related because our mainland communities have always kept strong ties to American Samoa. I feel good about the accomplishments I've helped to bring about for our community. NOSA has played a vital role in the achievements of special legislation for American Samoans in the United States, establishing such programs as the Pacific Educational Network (PEN), the Pacific Seafaring Traditions Project, and the Pacific Islander Leadership Training Program. I feel that our greatest achievement on the national level has been the legal recognition of American Samoans as Native Americans. It is important because it ensures that American Samoans can more readily access federal and state funds and programs targeted for indigenous Native American populations. This has been a goal of NOSA since 1977. It required tenacity and hard work to bring it about. While working to brine about this special legislation, I became the first American Samoan woman invited to testify before Congress. NOSA's work to establish better tabulation and identification of Pacific Islanders as an ethnic group throughout the California state and county system ied to the passage of California legislation. That bill sets in law appropriate tabulation procedures. Along the way, I have also served on the California Department of Education Superintendent's Advisory Council on Asia and Pacific Island Affairs and was a founding member of the first National Pacific Alliance for Education. Since 1984, this conference has been held annually to address national educational issues of Pacific Americans. I have never found my work uninteresting. I believe that we need to be able to analyse legislation to see how it may impact on our Samoan culture and family and community structures. We neea to develop ways to maintain the positive values of our culture in the face of changes tnat may be at odds with those values. At the same time, we need to learn how to adapt to survive in this changing, highly technical world. t >

m An ability to maintain our Samoan identity while working effectively within the structures of Western society is very important. People who cannot move from one culture to another face a handicap. Often they cannot fully participate in their community. My greatest hope is that my efforts contribute to the movement of our people toward self-sufficiency — to be fully participating members of the American family. I want Pacific Island people to have control over our own destinies and to help make the decisions that affect our lives. Presently, I live in San Francisco with my husband High Chief Tuimavave Aoelua and my daughter.

Page 128-Bottom Left Fusipala de Rosenstein: Assistant Vice President of Bank. San Francisco, California At time of publication, autobiography bad not been received.

Page 129 Left — Lying down Manase "Jesse" Sapolu: Professional Football Player. San Francisco, California My father was Rev. Pa'apa' a Niu Sapolu of Vaiala, Upolu. My mother is Lila Manase of Lufilufi. I was born on the 10th March, 1961 in Toamua, Upolu. My life is a mixture of many experiences and cultures, but the foundation of my values and beliefs are based on my Samoan culture. My parents did a great job of instilling my culture in my heart. An example of that, is the way I am able to speak my Samoan language. Tney insisted on politeness and the ability to deliver a speech, which is important in our culture. Born in the home of a minister, it was hard not to know what Samoan boy or girl values should be. At the age of 31 started school, not Government school, but the pastor's school, which was held in our home. My mom taught our class and she was the ultimate disciplinarian. Most of the village functions were held in our home, and that was where the chiefs and deacons of the church held their meetings. Whenever they met, nobody was allowed to walk across the front lawn, everybody had to go behind our nome to get to their destination, that was the custom. I enjoyed the older boys of the church coming over every Saturday night to make tne umu (ground oven) for Sunday's toana'i (communal feast). I enjoyed going to the plantation with them to get the banana leaves for covering the umu, and sometimes I carried logs of wooa from as far as 2 miles for the umu preparation. I was 8 years old. It was good training for the weight lifting that came later on. The first government school I attended was Saina Primary when I was 5. We didn't have desks and sophisticated equipment that we have in America. We used sea shells for arithmetic, and sat on mats. We moved to California when I was 8 years old. Being unable to speak and understand English made the adjustment hard. Two years later we moved to Hawaii because of a church calling.

There I attended Dole Intermediate and McKinley High School. During my sophomore year at McKinley, I found myself hanging around the wrong crowd. My grades dropped drastically and my parents decided to transfer me to Farrington High School. It turned out to be the pivotal point of my life. I met a coach that really cared and who pointed me in the right direction. He, Al Espinda, wanted me to be successful and not waste the God given gift he felt I had, which was to play football. I attended the University of Hawaii in 1979 on a football Scholarship. I made the all conference team for 3 years, honorable mention All American for 2 years and played in the Hula Bowl and the East West Shrine All Star Games at the end of my senior year. When I was drafted by the 49ers in 1983, it was a different game from what I had known at Farrington and the University of Hawaii. There were only a few job openings to compete for, and that made it more of a business than a game. In camp each day starts at 6am and ends with curfew at 11pm! In between there's a morning and afternoon practice, weight lifting that consists of bench pressing over 400lbs, leg squatting over 500lbs, a dinner and a team meeting. At the end of 6 weeks, 130 becomes 45. The Super Bowl is the ultimate goal in my profession. Winning the game in 1985 fulfilled my dreams and accomplished goals I had while growing up. I'm thankful for the opportunity to represent Samoa nationally. I've experienced some adversity in my Pro Football career. I had 2 serious injuries, and now have a 5 inch screw in my right foot and an 18 inch rod in my leg. But I am grateful for the opportunities I've had playing football and meeting all kinds of people. I'm profoundly grateful for my dad's teachings that enabled me to try to be courteous, polite, and not to judge others but to look for what is really in their hearts. Treating people the same way I want to be treated and strengthening my Faith and relationship with God is what I strive for. Faith Allows It To Happen.

Page 129 Middle Arona L. F. Palamo: Botanist. Davis, California

chosen sportsman of the year. It was a relief to my parents when I was awarded a scholarship to study at the South Pacific Regional College of Tropical Agriculture, at Alafua. I studied there from 1974 to 1976. That year I graduated with a diploma in Tropical Agriculture and was selected to play in the first Western Samoan rugby tour of New Zealand. After that I represented my country every year until 1982. This included 4 Hong Kong Seven-a-Side tournaments. I worked for a while as the Director for the YMCA rural development program. Then in 19811 was awarded a scholarship for undergraduate study Tropical Agriculture at the University of California, Davis. My expenses were paid by World Airways, through the kindness of Cardinal Pio Taofinu'u. One quarter before graduation the airline went bankrupt and the scholarship was terminated. The University of California, Davis, financed my last auarter. Thanks to Dean Whittaker, Mrs Erlinda Gonzales and the financial aid department at the university, I was able to complete my Bachelors degree after 214 years. All that time I was also involved with my beloved rugby. I was named to the first All American Collegiate Rugby team and in 19841 represented the United States in its rugby tour of New Zealand. Since then I've represented Northern California in matches against Argentina, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. Right now I'm employed by one of the world's leading companies in plant biotechnology, Calgene, Inc. in Davis, California. I thoroughly enjoy working on botanical genetic engineering and growing plants aeroponically ana hydroponically. The work is so fascinating that I'm seriously considering graduate school. One day however I will return to Samoa. Hopefully I will be able to help interested farmers with planning and management and will start a small experimental farm of my own.

Page 129 Right Samoa: Humboldt County, California The place was originally known as Brownsville for James D. H. Brown, who established a dairy ranch in 1859. In 1889 a group of Eureka businessmen formed the Samoa Land and Improvement Company, so named because the crisis in the Samoan Islands was emphasized in the newspapers and because Humboldt Bay was assumed to be similar to the harbor of Pago Pago. The lumber town, whicn developed in the 1890's, was called Samoa.

I was born in Apia on June 7,1955. My father is Faitala Palamo of Vaimoso, Upolu, and my mother Lote Levi comes from Sinamoga, on the same island. I was fourth to the youngest of 11 brothers and sisters. I'm married to Alofisa M. Tago and have 2 children. We were raised on a small farm in the rural village of Savaia, Lefaga. All my elementary or primary schooling was completed there. Then in 1968, after a trip to New Zealand, my parents decided that the family should relocate in Apia at Alafua. I attended Faleata Intermediate School, ana it was there that I started to show interest in rugby. Ever since, sports have played a big part in my life and gone hand in hana with my academic progress. I went to Avele Agricultural College, and was fortunate to do well academically as well as in sports. I graduated in 1973, first in my class and was

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Leumufonotasi Gagai Clausen: Berry Farmer. Woodburn, Oregon

Manu Tuiasosopo: Professional Football Player, Businessman. Seattle, Washington

Taupule James Valavala: Commercial Fisherman. Kodiak Island, Alaska

I was born on July 27,1946 and raised in the very small village of Saipipi, Savai'i. My father is Taifau Falesui Gagai, of Saipipi, and my mother is Leativa, from the same village. All the time I was growing up, I didn't dream of going to any other place. My family and village were my world. Mine was a big family of uncles, aunties, and cousins, as well as 11 sisters and 6 brothers. We all lived together in that small village of Saipipi. Every time my mother asked me to weave a mat or blinds for our house, I'd say, "I'm not gonna marry any Samoan guy". And she'd say, "Tasi you might be the first one in our family to marry some old man." When my mother saia that, I got angry inside and cried. But living at home was very special to me. We all worked together for there was a lot of hard work to do. I went to school and although I didn't learn much, I'm grateful for my education. Sometimes when our parents needed us, they'd ask us to stay home and help them around the house or in our plantation (large garden of taro, bananas, etc.). We worked very hard but we were also very nappy. When I was 7 years old mom decided that I should go and take care of grandpa and grandma (mother's side). Staying with my new parents was very special to me. I spent 9 years with them. Tney were the reason for my coming to the United States. I left Samoa on February 24,1964, going alone to Hawaii to look for a future, for me, my parents, and my family. Going alone, without my parents or any of my brothers or sisters felt like going to another world. It was sad and very emotional, but when I thought about my family's future, then I knew my life must continue. I stayed with my uncle and his family and went to school. It was very embarrassing for I started the eighth grade when I was 17 years old. I didn't know any English at all. It was a hard life but I did it. When I graduated from high school, getting that diploma was a very special achievement for me. It was a sacrifice I made so I could find a future for my family in America as well as my family in Samoa. My last year of High School I met (or I should say I was met by) a very very special person. His name was Carman E. Clausen. He was in the Navy and we went together for a year. We decided to marry when I graduated from high school and he completed his military service. We married and a year later started our family. The next year our son Wesley was born. Two years later we had twin girls Debra and Debbie, and then a year later we had our youngest and last baby, Luana. Our family was full of happiness and joy as we watched the children grow. We were able to help my family back in Samoa and while still in Hawaii, I sent for my 4 sisters. We lived in Hawaii for 5 years, before moving to Oregon where we initially lived with my husband's mother. In 1975 we bought a house in Woodburn, and that's where my children started school. We stayed there for 5 years, and loved it, but it was too close to the city. In 1980 we bought our farm. Being a farmer is a tough life, there's a lot of work to do but it's also fun, just like when I was young in Samoa. I love the fresh air, and hearing the rooster crow in the morning. We have 26 acres, 8 acres of caneberries and peaches. The rest is still unplantea. We have been living on the farm for 7 years now. My life is rewarding. We've had to make a lot of sacrifices but have always pulled through. My husband and I both have full time jobs besides working on our farm. I'm grateful for my life in America for my heart now has two homes, Oregon and Samoa.

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I was born in Los Angeles on August 30th, 1957. My mother is Sorepa Temena Tagaloa of Olosega and my father is Asovalu Letupu Tuiasosopo of Vatia. I was the first son of 4 children. My dad worked at McDonell Douglas. We did some moving around and lived witn relatives in Nanakuli, Hawaii, and my mom's brother in Carson, California, eventually getting our own place. I always remember our family gatherings. They were huge. My dad is the oldest and all his brothers and sisters would come over with my cousins. Man was that fun. In elementary school I played every sport but football. My mom was afraid my bones would be broken. The football coach talked to my baseball coach who my mom trusted. He convinced her to let me try out, all my friends had. It was the neighborhood thing to do. We had a pretty good year and I got the lineman award. That came as a surprise for I had never played the game before. That same coach got me to go to St Anthony's High School in Long Beach. Our sophomore team came second in our division, which was great because our varsity was known as the "Cellar Dwellers." Each year we got better. My junior year I was chosen All League and All City for defensive tackle. It was a good year for me, I began to get letters from colleges, and I met my future wife. My senior year I was chosen the defensive player of the year. I felt great because 3 Samoans were picked to play in the All Star Game for Southern California. To me it was the pro bowl of nigh schools. My senior year I had 70 letters from colleges around the U.S. offering me full scholarships. It made me feel good for it made my mom happy. She always wanted her sons to go to college. I picked UCLA because it was close to home and I wanted to play with 2 other Samoans who were going there. I played first string my freshman year. It was very special to be playing with my Samoan "brothers". The year culminated in the Rose Bowl when we beat Ohio State to become the national champion. Our banquet was in the Beverly Hilton. I will never forget the expressions on my parents faces. Everyone on the team wore a towel witn their names on it. We 3 Samoans wore our (avalavas. My junior year I was selected by ABC TV to go on their promotional tour. I was 19 — a young Samoan and flying first class to NY and staying at the Plaza Hotel. We travelled from city to city talking to the media. My senior year in 1978 was another good year for I played with two other Samoans in the Hula Bowl. And then in 19791 was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks and later traded to the San Francisco 49ers. We won the Super Bowl in 1985. I was brought up in a Christian home but it wasn't until 1981 that I really felt what that meant. When I play the game I hope I am not just playing for the money or the cheers — but that I am playing my best — because I serve a God that expects my best in whatever I do — witn my family, my friends, and in my business.

I was born in Tula, Tutuila on October 1st, 1959. My father is Valavala Valavala of Falefa, Upolu and my mother Sauimatagi Taupule of Tula, Tutuila. When I was little I enjoyed going to the village school in Tula. It was a lot of fun waking up early and going off to meet new kids and being with friends. High school was different. Some kids wanted to start fights and liked to pick on others. I stayed home a lot, and in 1978, we moved to Seattle. At first I was overwhelmed by the size of the city. In no time at all, however, I'd made some friends and life was good. I graduated in 1979 and that was a great feeling of accomplishment. Summer started and I told my mom I was going to travel. It's great being Samoan. I visited family and friends up and down the coast, in San Diego, Long Beach, and San Francisco. When I returned home I knew that I wanted to see more and set my sights on Alaska. Over the next months I worked as a bus boy, a dishwasher, anything I could find. I saved my money and although I didn't know anyone, I Dougnt a ticket and flew to Anchorage. It wasn't long before I ran into another Samoan, Tavita Asi, a high school teacher. Tavita, being a real Samoan, asked me home. We were roommates for 3 years. I found a job working for an airline that flew cargo all over Alaska. Because of the airline connection I was able to fly home to see my folks. Then in 19831 met a pretty Samoan girl at the Alaska State Fair. I was performing in a floor show. We talked, became friends, flew to Hawaii to see her folks and a month and a half later we were married. We settled in Seattle with my family. I found a job in a factory and worked indoors for a whole year. I don't like being inside all the time. I guess that comes from growing up in Samoa. My older brother was working for the Arctic Ice Seafood Company and he got me a job on one of their fishing boats. At first I was a processor, working below deck. We cleaned, packed and froze the fish while at sea. After 2 months the skipper asked me to become a deck hand. I worked my way up from there to repairing and setting nets. The average voyage takes a couple of months. You fish until the hold is full. Sometimes there s nothing much to do but when we hit a school of fish we work 24 hours straight. There's nothing like the North Pacific and Bering Sea in the winter. The waves get over 20 feet, the ice is almost a foot thick on tne deck and the wind is something else. Now that's excitement. I'm going to be a fisherman the rest of my life. I guess I'm hooked.

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Capt. Stanley Snow: Jet Pilot. Eielson Air Force Base, Northern Alaska I grew up in Carson, California (a suburb of Los Angeles where the Samoan population is rather large). Since there were plenty of Samoans in the community. I had a good understanding of what the 'fa'asamoa" (way of life) was like. Unfortunately, I wasn't very good at speaking Samoan, although I could understand it. As a child, being Samoan didn't seem very important and when people asked what my race was, I would tell them I was Hawaiian (everyone knew where Hawaiians came from, but explaining where Samoa was got complicated). As I grew older, however, I became aware of the importance of being Samoan. [ >

One summer I worked for Omai Fa'atasi (a group organized to help the Samoan kids gain an awareness and pride in their culture). M y desire to become a pilot started when I was 9. M y elementary school class watched the first astronauts land on the moon. I was so impressed that I wanted to learn all I could about being an astronaut. Later, I saw the U.S. Navy Blue Angels flying and decided then and there that I wanted to be a jet pilot. I knew that flight school was expensive and pilots had to be smart. I didn't think I had a chance but I loved jets so much that I would have been satisfied with washing planes just to be near one. I had my dream and I clung to it. Like most Samoan kids I loved sports and spent a lot of my free time at Scott Park playing basketball or football. The park was a gathering place for Samoans and I enjoyed being there. When I started high school, football became even more important. Samoans are known as good football players and I wanted to be part of tne team. People looked up to you if you were on the squad. And while popularity was a fringe benefit, it wasn't that big a deal. The Samoans were like a family ana we all loo