Tagaloa Mo’aga Samuelu Teevale is from Si’ufaga, Faga, Fa’asaleleaga in Savai’i. He believes the Samoan language and culture are deeply important because they connect people to their ancestors, families, and identity, while preserving the knowledge, values, and stories passed down through generations.
Through speaking Samoan and understanding cultural values, Tagaloa is able to build trust and strong relationships with Samoan families, elders, and community members. He finds that people are often more comfortable sharing their needs when they feel understood both culturally and through language.
This year's theme for Samoa Language Week, “E afua mai i mauga tetele manuia o le nu’u,” reminds him of the strong foundations laid by his ancestors and the enduring connection to his homeland in Samoa.
