“E vave taunu’u le malaga pe a tatou alo va’a fa’atasi”
Our destiny is within sight when we paddle our canoe together
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SDSU PISA HIGH SCHOOL CONFERENCE 2024 (Samoan Cultural Workshop)
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November 2022
USC PISA
In partnership with USC PISA, our Taupou Samoa Cultural Arts team engaged in meaningful discussions with the Pacific Islander Student Association. Together, we explored Pasefika traditions, navigated the experience of being Pacific Islander in America, and fostered conversations on how to be effective leaders within our communities. This collaboration created a valuable space for sharing insights and strengthening our cultural ties.​
March 2024
Cathedral Catholic Poly Club
Students at Cathedral Catholic High School engage in meaningful conversations about exploring self-identity while delving into their cultural roots. These open discussions foster a sense of accountability, encouraging one another to honor and respect their cultural expressions. Together, they create an environment where diverse identities can flourish and be celebrated.
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​April 2024
MORSE MISA
High School Conference
Our cultural arts team had the honor of teaching Siva Samoa (Samoan Dance) and Cultural Workshops for 300 students attending the “PEOPLE OF PASEFIKA” High School Conference. Hosted by Morse MISA (Islander Student Association) Taupou Samoa Cultural Arts was asked to share and fellowship with students ranging from all parts of San Diego, CA.
Our 3 workshops embraced the beauty of siva samoa (Samoan dance) the roles and responsibilities in Samoan cultural settings and the importance of identity as a tagata Samoa or “People of Pasefika”… We are appreciative and blessed that new generations are interested in learning about their cultural backgrounds and embracing their Samoan heritage. We are steadfast in keeping the Samoan Culture alive here in the States for future generations to come.
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​November 2024
SDSU PISA
High School Conference
we had the honor of hosting four cultural workshops at the PISA Annual High School Conference, centered around the theme “Tauivi Ki Te Lelei,” which translates to the “Pursuit of Excellence.” This theme goes beyond academic achievement; it embodies a commitment to celebrating and uplifting Pacific Islander communities in San Diego.
During our workshops, high school students had the opportunity to explore “The Art of Samoa” in an engaging, 35-minute session. We delved into the geography of Samoa, discussed Amioga Fa’asama (traditional customs), and showcased Siva Samoa (Samoan dance). We are deeply grateful to our participants for their respectful embrace of our culture, and we were thrilled to see such genuine interest in these aspects of Samoan heritage.
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Creating spaces where our youth can explore and connect with Samoan and Pacific Islander cultures is essential, especially in the United States, where our traditions are often underrepresented. Pacific Islander students are doing incredible work by establishing programs and clubs that promote representation in their schools and communities. We extend our heartfelt thanks to pisa.sdsu for inviting us to share this space and inspire the next generation of Pacific leaders.
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