Poised and elegant, Tofilau Fiti Leung Wai sat in her executive chair. Her desk like her office is well organised and there is nothing out of place.

It is her place of zen, just like her home. And then you come to realise that she is not a mother just to her own children but she is a mother to her employees as well.

The Samoa Stationery and Book (S.S.A.B.) Chief Executive Officer believes women especially mothers play a very important role in shaping the lives of children.

“I am blessed to have been raised by my two mothers. They instilled in me the good values that I believe have made me the woman I am today,” said Tofilau.

The story of S.S.A.B. from a small store to becoming one of Samoa’s biggest stores is truly amazing. Tofilau finished high school in Samoa, got her law degree from the University of Otago, and later attained her Master's in Law from the Australia National University.

Before opening her business, both Tofilau and her husband worked for the Samoa Government.

“I believe that everything happens because the Lord has a plan for you. It also takes hard work and commitment,” she said.

Tofilau said her biological mother is Nino Stenley Vito and her second mother was Epenesa Saifoloi, who has passed away.

“My mama Epe was a nurse and deeply religious and I guess that is why I believe that the Lord should be a part of everything you do in life,” she said. “I was brought up in Moataa and I attended local primary and high schools. I still believe that Samoa delivers good quality education.”

Tofilau and her husband Tuatagaloa Aumua Ming Leung Wai have four sons, the younger two are twins.

“It is tough managing the business and then finding a balance to spend time with my children. When I have time, I make sure it is well spent with my sons,” she said.

“And just like my children, I treat my employees the same. I guess there has to be a connection and understanding.

“Mothers’ Day is a call for celebration to thank all the mothers (including those who have passed on) for their love, resilience, patience, and compassion.

“There is no doubt that our mothers have positively impacted our lives and made us the persons we are today."

According to Tofilau, mothers are the "backbone of our families, churches, and community", and we should be appreciative of their lives and their impact on ours. 

"We thank God for our mothers. To all the Mothers of Samoa, thank you for all you do, and Happy Mothers’ Day! We honour, respect, and cherish each and every one of you!”

One of Tofilau’s fondest memory is when she bought a house for her biological mother, and she described how emotional she became on the day the property was handed over. 

“I get very emotional about this. It was on Mother’s Day when my mum stepped into the house. She was so happy. Seeing that joy on her face is priceless,” she said.

This Mother’s Day, Tofilau will be home with her children. She intends to spend the day just with them and hopes that all mothers in Samoa get to feel the love they deserve.