The Marist Brothers Old Pupils Association (M.B.O.P.A.) is a month away from its centennial anniversary and confident that with local and overseas support it will reach the goal of collecting $1 million.

Held at the St. Joseph's College Hall on Wednesday evening, the M.B.O.P.A committee gathered to discuss their ongoing plans for the celebration which will feature a live concert from Samoan artists local and abroad. They received an official donation of $15,000 from one of the four houses of the association, Darnand Avila.

According to the president, Aumua Ming Leung Wai, the association following the celebration has a monetary target of $1 million but at the money, they have only managed to collect about $100,000.

He also acknowledged the support from Darnand Avila which contributed to the proceedings.

"It's a great amount Darnand Avila has donated this evening for the 100th anniversary celebration of Marist and we started last year with the other Houses and now with this donation, it's a great contribution," he said.

"Our target is $1 million and the purpose of that goal is to renovate the halls at St. Joseph's College and Marist Primary in Apia and that's why we're also doing the $100-A-Marist for whoever attended the Marist schools."

Asked whether they will seek assistance form the government, Aumua said they have already approached the Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mataafa and several other ministers.

"Whatever amount we can receive, we will accept it with great gratitude and currently we are yet to reach $1 million but Marist also has affiliates from overseas who will be joining us for the celebration with their preparations and they will also donate once they arrive."

Leader of the Darnand Avila House (yellow), Peseta Paulo said the goal is to celebrate 100th anniversary of Marist and to pave a path for the future of the children of Samoa.

"We now have started officially. The celebrations of Marist 100th anniversary and yellow (Darnand) is coming to win and money is not a problem to us," he said.

Asked if they have plans to donate again before the anniversary, he said 'yes' through a social event online.

He also acknowledged the support from those who helped them raise $15,000 via a corporate table event they held before the donation.

Meanwhile, the dates of the association’s centennial celebrations were finalised last year and will take place from 29 July to 4 August 2024. 

The week-long celebration will include a mass to honour their part in putting God first, a march through town, a special awards ceremony for their members who have served their country and association well, community projects, activities with their schools, music festivals, fundraisers and sports events.