The village of Iva in Fa'asaleleaga No.2 is once again abuzz with energy and excitement as its youth celebrate the much-anticipated annual Iva Youth Week. 

Established in 2013, this transformative initiative has become a beacon of inspiration, falling each year during the festive Christmas week.

Rooted in a vision to empower young people and provide meaningful engagement during the holiday season, the Iva Youth Week began with a profound realisation by Reverend Tonu Mauafu of the Congregational Christian Church Samoa (C.C.C.S.) parish in Iva. 

Reflecting on the origins of this movement, Rev. Mauafu recounted his first Christmas in the village in 2008, when a group of intoxicated young men visited his home seeking more alcohol.

"It was then that I was inspired to come up with an activity to occupy the time of our young people so they can celebrate the festive season differently," he said. "The goal was to shift their focus from drinking and partying to something more meaningful and productive."

The concept quickly gained traction, and the inaugural Iva Youth Week became a cornerstone of the community's Christmas celebrations. By bringing young people together for structured activities, the initiative has significantly reduced behaviour that previously led to penalties from the village councils during the holiday season.

Rev. Mauafu emphasised the critical role of the church in nurturing and guiding young people. "The church has a responsibility to protect our youth from falling into the wrong crowds or paths," he said. "Instead of waiting for problems to escalate, we can stand as a preventative force, shaping a better future."

Over the years, the initiative has evolved into a vibrant, multi-faceted celebration, involving biblical skits, dances, and a signature beauty pageant. The pageant, open to both boys and girls, aims to build confidence and showcase talents, fostering leadership skills and unity among participants.

"The beauty of this initiative is how it brings our youth together, not just within our parish but from other denominations in the village," Rev. Mauafu said. "It’s fulfilling to see them collaborate, lead, and organise activities themselves, achieving something greater as a collective."

Despite the challenges of funding and coordination, Rev. Mauafu remains unwavering in his commitment. "It’s not easy or cheap, but the impact is profound. This is about teaching values, enjoying life’s blessings, and fostering fellowship and teamwork. Watching our youth take the lead is the ultimate reward."

This year’s Youth Week pageant themed "Resilient Youth" and sponsored by Vodafone Samoa, has been a resounding success. 

Youth President Ms. Popo Kirifi Soloi expressed immense pride in the participants' dedication and unity, noting that preparations—though demanding—came together beautifully in just over three weeks.

Divided into five groups representing the sub-villages of Iva, the youth performed skits and dances inspired by biblical stories. A highlight of the week was the float parade and the grand beauty pageant on Friday evening, which drew families and supporters from across the village.

Ms. Soloi praised the collective effort and the support of those who contributed to the event’s success. "We are thankful to everyone who lent a hand, believed in this initiative, and helped us make it possible," she said.

As Iva Youth Week concludes another successful year, its legacy continues to grow, offering a powerful example of how faith, community, and vision can shape a brighter future for young people.

Rev. Mauafu’s words echo the spirit of this initiative: "When young people come together for a greater cause, it’s not just about the event—it’s about building resilience, leadership, and unity that will carry them into the future."

In Iva, this is not just a celebration; it is a movement, one that transforms lives and strengthens the foundation of a united and resilient community.