Miss Samoa Moemoana Schwenke is counting down to the launching of her initiative Tā Fesilafa’i which has a special focus on creative and performing arts.

Fuelled by her love and passion for the Siva Afi, Siva Samoa and costume making, the launch is scheduled for this Friday. Over 400 students have already registered for the program, eager to learn from the Tausala Samoa.

According to the reigning Miss Samoa, the Tā Fesilafa’i Creative and Performing Arts Initiative is an introduction to Siva Afi, Samoan and Pacific dance, and costume making for ages 6-12 and 13-21. 

A performer herself, Ms. Schwenke said that the Samoan and Pacific dances have been a major source of her strength throughout her life. 

“I hope the introductory classes into Siva Afi, Samoan and Pacific dance serve as a source of strength in the student’s life and grow their love for their own culture and cultures of the Pacific,” said Miss Samoa. 

“As we shape our young people into the future leaders of Samoa, it is my aspiration to be able to pass on valuable gifts throughout your journey toward reaching your full potential. Tā Fesilafa’i was Nafanua's first and primary weapon during her heroic battle to protect her family and save her village.  

“It is a journey of creative expression and cultural learning in a safe and nurturing space for your learning and personal growth.” 

Close to two months after her crowning as Miss Samoa, Ms. Schwenke said her journey has been full of surprises and excitement. 

“It has been a very exciting journey so far and two months into the reign and I feel like a lot has been accomplished already, [having] being out in the Samoan community listening to stories of people and their needs,” she said. “This will be a glimpse of bigger projects that may come about next year where I can develop a more formal school that’s open to all ages.

"I miss my family and my visit to Sydney was also a big farewell for me and they were all emotional but the sacrifice is very worth it to be able to serve Samoa. I am really happy to continue to do what I was doing in Sydney in Samoa."

Ms. Schwenke added that the opportunity that now avails itself through Tā Fesilafa’i is to continue to build young people to become leaders with the program a guiding step for them to reach their full potential.