The term of the Samoa Law Society (S.L.S.) President Alex Su’a has been extended for another 12 months with the new appointee picking members' professional development as a priority.

Mr. Su’a confirmed his reappointment as the S.L.S. President on Saturday afternoon when he was contacted by the Samoa Observer.

He said there is a lot of work that needs to be done over the next 12 months. However, he said his main focus will be on the professional development of the society’s members.

"There is so much to be done, however, the prime and more important one is for more focus and locally relevant professional development plans for our members,” Mr. Su’a said in an interview.

“This is where information sharing, mentoring and capacity building of our members is direly needed.”

The other new S.L.S. Executive Members who were appointed include the Vice President Faimalomatumua Mathew Lemisio; Treasurer Maposua Tanya Toailoa; and Secretary Violina Leilua. The councillors include Mauga Precious Chang; Shirley Malielegaoi; and Anne Matalasi with the ex officio the Attorney General Su'a Hellene Wallwork.

According to the S.L.S. President, the COVID-19 pandemic over the last two and a half years disrupted the S.L.S. from rolling out its annual training programs and workshop sessions and he is keen to address that. 

“The COVID-19 restrictions prevented our society from having the usual training and workshop sessions for our members for a few years now, this term is ambitiously one that we must ensure that happens.”

Asked how he juggles his responsibilities being the SLS President and running a law firm, Mr. Su’a said it came down to his belief in servitude. 

"It's very demanding and challenging because they are all very important roles – it's survival versus tautua clash of roles. 

“My firm is my bread and butter while also serving our people. My role for the Law Society and Samoa Faafafine Association are those of my professional and social community. 

“It's basically about rendering tautua (service) in the least possible way possible.”

Mr. Su’a said he had never been involved with the council of the SLS until last year and added that he felt it was time to serve.

“I felt it was good timing to serve or tautua. However, I have always been involved in its other committees, especially its Professional Development Committee," he said.

"Personally, whatever happens in the future for me and my pursuit in life, I can say I have been there, I have done that. It was my tautua (service).

"Just like my other learned colleagues have done as well in the past council.” 

Pointing out that his parents’ influence were the major factors behind him becoming a lawyer, Mr. Su’a said it was their dream. 

"Yes my dear beloved parents: Faameia Su'a and Su'a Atonio Lemi Su'a, both have passed on,” he said. "Being a lawyer was their dream, not mine. 

"I had always wanted to be a flight attendant. I really do hope I have made them proud.”