Celebrating Gagana Samoa with University of Auckland Samoan Students Association (UASSA)

Held at the University of Auckland Quad, 06 June 2025

In June 2025, Village Collective proudly partnered with the University of Auckland Samoan Students' Association (UASSA) to sponsor their Samoan Language Week Showcase, held at the University's Quad. This marked the beginning of a meaningful partnership with UASSA and their community of young Pasifika leaders, who dedicated an entire week to honoring the richness of Samoan language, culture, and identity within their educational space. 

For Village Collective, the purpose of supporting this cohort was clear: identity is wellbeing. By investing in youth-led initiatives that celebrate language and culture, we strengthen young people's confidence, sense of belonging, and ability to thrive. Partnering with UASSA affirms our commitment to creating spaces where Pasifika youth feel seen, valued and empowered - not only in their communities, but within academic institutions too. 

The celebrations began with an Ava Ceremony - a sacred and traditional custom that signifies the opening of an important gathering, grounding the week in respect and cultural integrity. On Tuesday, UASSA hosted a Sa'ili le Atua Spiritual Night, dedicating an evening to give back to God and placing faith at the center of their journey, ensuring the rest of Samoan Language Week was guided and blessed. 

Midweek, students gathered for the Le Malu Workshop, designed to support Samoan students in deepening their understanding of cultural traditions and strengthening confidence in their identities as tama and tama'ita'i. Thursday morning featured an Academic Seminar, with faculty associations presenting their purpose and highlighting the role of identity in academia. That same evening, UASSA collaborated with AUTSA to host a Sports Night, bringing together laughter, fellowship, and friendly competition.

The week culminated in the much-appreciated Samoan Language Week Showcase on Friday evening. This finale was a vibrant celebration of Gagana Samoa, culture, and identity through powerful performances - all organized, facilitated, and brought to life by at least 45 active members of UASSA.

Supporting UASSA's Samoan Language Week was more than sponsorship; it was an act of solidarity with the next generation of Pasifika leaders. This partnership has opened the door to new networks, relationships, and collaborations with young people who are proudly carrying their culture forward while shaping a future grounded in resilience, pride, and unity.