Press release  -  Informal Gardeners Group (I.G.G.) will carry out its third cultural and learning exchange programme in Samoa. 

Supported by Samoa’s Ambassador to Japan, Fa’alavaau Perina Sila-Tualaulelei, the group is once again engaging the National University of Samoa’s (N.U.S.) Oloamanu Centre for Professional Development and Continuing Education. 

In a press statement, I.G.G. representative Nynette Sass, who is leading the visitation, said: “The I.G.G. is the brainchild of our dearest friend and mentor, the late Seumanutafa Dr. Malcolm Hazelman. 

“I.G.G. is a group of like minded people in Samoa interested in agriculture, gardening and related aspects coming together to learn from others with visits and networking as well as using social media to share. Ikebana is a perfect example of cultural exchange that fits right into this thinking.”

Sensei Yorie is an instructor of the Japanese art form of Ikebana flower arrangement, and wife of Samoa’s Japanese honorary consul in Japan and president of the Joban Kosan Company Ltd, Naomi Inoue, which runs a large Polynesian and Hawaiian-themed spa resort in Iwaki City. 

Sensei will run short courses ranging from the basics, three stem arrangements to the more advanced group, who have progressed through the five to the nine stem arrangements. She also intends to train trainers during this outing. 

The six weeks of trainings will again culminate in a showdown hosted in a public venue to showcase the learnings and artistic creations of the finalists. Last year’s public showdown was hosted at The Marina Edge View, which saw a lot of curious onlookers enjoying the spectacle.

“Our working group on behalf of this partnership is deeply grateful to Sensei Yorie and her husband for her generosity in time and love for our country and people. All Sensei’s travels and accommodation are fully self funded. We look after the logistics, coordination and provision of the ground support including transportation and translation services which has been provided generously by a wonderful group of Japanese ladies in Samoa.” 

“We are also indebted to our Japanese friends led by Rieko Tielu, assisted by Shiori Va’a, Masami who is also a lecturer at NUS plus others who step in from time to time.  Dōmo arigatōgozaimashita”

Classes begin July 26-27 for the beginners. If you are new to the art form and interested to learn, email [email protected] [email protected]  or via Messenger or facebook:  Nynette Sass, Louise Main,  ElizabethTeuila  Fautua Filemu-Esera Or text 7774250.

Classes will be held at Oloamanu Centre, at Vaivase Tai. The classes cost 20 tala to offset costs.