The family of Malietoa Moli II celebrated a significant moment on Thursday morning, as they welcomed three new title holders into their ranks. 

The three individuals were bestowed with the chiefly title of Auimatagi in a ceremony that, while intimate, was deeply emotional and meaningful for the new matai. 

The event took place at the residence of Malietoa Moli II in Fagali'i, marking the beginning of a journey of service for the new title holders, who now carry the Auimatagi title in honour of Malietoa and the village of Malie.

Although the ceremony was small in scale, it held profound significance for the three new title holders, as their path to this moment had not been easy. This made the occasion all the more special and emotional, as each of them reflected on their journeys to this point.

Among the new matai was Auimatagi Ainsley Schwalger-Mamea, who expressed a blend of emotions after receiving the title. 

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, she shared that she felt overwhelmed and proud, with a deep sense of emotion. 

"This was something I've always wanted to do - to continue my dad's legacy," Auimatagi Ainsley said, her voice tinged with emotion. 

"It's been a while since someone from our family stepped forward to take the Auimatagi title, and we are honoured to have been given the blessings to take this up for our family."

For Auimatagi Ainsley, this moment represents more than just a title—it is a commitment to service and a continuation of her late father, Auimatagi Sonnie Edward Phillip Schwalger’s, legacy. 

“This is about paving the way for my children, so they can understand that the way to leadership is through service,” she added, emphasising her belief in the importance of leadership through humility and dedication.

She also acknowledged that being a new matai comes with great responsibility. 

“Everything my dad did was for his family. He served his family well and he always delivered. So I’ve prepared myself for that, and when I said that I was born Ainsley but will go to the grave as Auimatagi, I meant that,” she said. 

"One of the things we inherited from our dad was our work ethics and service. We put in the work, and we make sure that we serve with humility and to the best of our ability."

Auimatagi Martha Schwalger, another new titleholder, expressed deep gratitude for the journey that led her to this moment. 

"It's been quite a journey to get where we are today," she said. “We have been planning for this for two years because we wanted to make sure that everything was in place. But mentally we have been preparing for this day for such a long time. And now that it has finally happened, we feel gratitude. We owe it to our village and the people who have been helping us get to where we are now.”

For Auimatagi Martha, the significance of the matai title is not lost on her. She understands the weight it carries, and she is now ready to step into the role with a deep commitment to her family and her community. 

"We did grow up in Samoa, so we fully understand the value and significance of having a title and service to our family," she said. “At the end of the day, it’s all about family and service.”

Auimatagi Stan Schwalger, the third new titleholder, also spoke about the profound meaning of receiving the chiefly title. 

For him, it is much more than a title—it is a representation of his family. 

“I will be serving my family by representing them in the village council through this title, and I am honoured to provide this service for my family,” he said, emphasising his dedication to upholding the family’s legacy and traditions.

The Auimatagi title represents a significant step in the lives of these three individuals, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with responsibilities, service, and a deep commitment to their community.