Miss Samoa Stationery and Books (S.S.A.B.), Gloryesther Latafale Fuimaono has got her sights set on women empowerment and tackling gender-based violence.

Ms. Fuimaono, 23, is from Siusega and is a senior researcher and procurement officer with an associate degree from Brigham University Hawaii. She is the youngest daughter of Fuimaono Fritz Lafaele and Tualasea Serah Fritz. 

Asked what she will focus on if gets crowned Miss Samoa on Saturday night, Miss S.S.A.B. told the Samoa Observer that she is keen on making stronger presentations for women playing bigger roles in multifaceted aspects of society. 

"I would focus on a stronger representation of women in sports and Parliament through mentoring aspiring leaders,” Ms. Fuimaono said. 

“Also I would focus on the eradication of domestic violence at home.” 

Giving credit to God for the opportunity that now availed itself through the pageant, she said she is grateful to her grandmothers and parents as well as aunt Tofilau Fiti Leung Wai.

“I want to thank my aunty Tofilau Fiti Leung Wai for sponsoring me for the Miss Samoa pageant this year," she said. 

"I also  want to thank my sisters and brothers, aunties and uncles, friends and supporters for supporting me since the start of my journey as a contestant for the Miss Samoa pageant.”

With the celebration of Samoa’s 60th Independence anniversary about to conclude this week, Ms. Fuimaono said we should not forget the sacrifices made by Samoa’s forefathers.

"Reaching 60 years is indeed God’s favour upon Samoa. I am grateful to God for his endless protection and favour upon Samoa all these years. 

“Remembering our forefathers and sacrifices they had made so we can attain independence.”

Having recently graduated from BYU Hawaii with an associate degree in arts of science, the Miss Samoa contestant said she is currently pursuing a bachelor of arts of science online in the fall semester of 2022. 

For Ms. Fuimaono chores centred around her family takes priority together with volunteering to help the homeless, clean the environment in Laie, farmer’s market fundraising for Samoan clubs and getting involved in cultural nights.

Categorised as contestant number two for the pre-pageant interviews, her interview topic was on politics.