This week, Vaiaso o le Gagana Sāmoa, or the Samoa Language Week (31 May – 6 June), is being marked in New Zealand and for a Samoan academic, this is a personal journey.
The theme this year is “E afua mai i mauga tetele manuia o le nu‘u”, from the high mountains are the blessings of the village.
The proverb speaks to the well-being and success of a community that comes from its strongest foundations, its ancestors, leaders, environment, culture, and faith. A reminder that our blessings, knowledge and identity are nurtured and passed down through these mountains, guiding and sustaining future generations.
Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific, Fonoiā Professor Sipaea Jemaima Tiatia‑Siau can attest to the blessings passed down from the high mauga (mountain).
A proud Sāmoan academic and leader, with Tongan ancestry, the career of Professor Tiatia‑Siau (Sālelologa, Taga, Vaimoso, Siumu, Vaigaga, and Fusi Safata) reflects a commitment to tautua (service) grounded in alofa.
