"One life lost is one too many." With this resolute statement guiding her, Fepulea’i Ida Siala Talafa’aoti- Okesene is stepping onto the Miss Samoa stage not just as a contestant, but as a passionate advocate for a cause close to her heart: combating drug and gun violence in Samoa.

At 25, Fepulea'i proudly represents the villages of Sapapali’i, Sasina, Samata, Safotu, and Letogo. She is leveraging her newfound platform to call for urgent and cohesive action against the escalating violence plaguing her homeland. 

She had always considered Samoa to be the safest place on Earth. However, after returning from her studies, Fepulea'i was shocked by the rise in shooting incidents and their connection to drugs.

Recently returned from China where she earned a Bachelor of Science, Fepulea'i’s mission has been deeply influenced by personal tragedy. Her family is still grappling with the heartache of losing a loved one to gun violence—a tragedy underscored by the recent death of her 12-year-old cousin, who was shot while sleeping in Salelavalu, Savai’i.

Fepulea'i recalls the profound impact of this loss, struggling to contain her emotions as she spoke of her cousin’s death. 

The loss of an innocent child who had his whole future ahead of him is a painful reminder of the urgent need for stronger legislation and enforcement against gun violence and drug abuse, she said. 

Her grief has galvanised her resolve to be the voice for victims and their families, advocating for decisive action and legislative reform.

Initially, Fepulea'i considered focusing on other issues during her Miss Samoa journey. However, the overwhelming personal experience of loss led her to a greater purpose. To raise awareness and push for systemic changes to address these pressing problems. 

"We need stronger legislation and enforcement of laws," she asserts. "The future of our families and communities depends on it."

Her journey to the Miss Samoa pageant was also driven by personal growth and familial inspiration. 

As the first in her family to compete in a beauty pageant, Fepulea'i views this as a profound challenge and an opportunity to honour her mother. "My mother is a strong woman who likes to challenge herself," Fepulea'i said. "Her courage in facing challenges inspires me to step up and embrace this opportunity, despite the scrutiny and criticism that may come."

Fepulea'i's mother’s influence extends beyond mere inspiration. Her upbringing, coupled with her educational experiences, has profoundly shaped her worldview. 

During her five years of study in China, where she also pursued modelling and dancing, Fepulea'i developed a deeper appreciation for her Samoan heritage. She proudly shared her culture with those she met, reinforcing her belief that a true tama’ita’i Samoa knows her roots and carries forward her cultural legacy with pride.

For Fepulea'i, beauty pageants are not just about physical appearance. They represent a platform for showcasing talent, intelligence, cultural pride, and passion. 

As she prepares to step onto the Miss Samoa stage, she is eager to represent her family, her villages, and her community. 

"I am excited for this journey and the chance to make my family proud," she says with a confident smile. "This is a new experience for all of us, and I am determined to give it my all."

Educated in Samoa at Vaimoso and Saint Mary’s primary schools, and later at the Church College of Pesega, Fepulea'i also earned a Certificate in Arts from the National University of Samoa before pursuing further studies in China. 

Holding the matai title Fepulea’i from her maternal grandmother’s family in Fagae’e, Savai’i, she carries the weight of tradition and expectation with grace.