Brothers Leota Maunu Sinaumea Taufao and Leuso Mose Tyron Taufao are happy having being bestowed chief titles yesterday at Ti’avea.

Leuso, 20, said he was nervous at first.

“I am very humbled and privileged to have such an opportunity to serve my family and community,” Leuso said.

As for Leota Maunu, his new title is his second. His first chief title, Maunu, is from his father’s side of the family at Faleasi’u.

 “I already have my fathers’ family chiefly title and I would like to do the same for my mother too. This is my mom’s side and my grandfather who I am named after (Sinaumea). So it’s only right to go back and serve where you come from,” Leota said.

They both live in Brisbane, Australia and said that even though they live outside of Samoa there are opportunities to serve and represent their family and villages.

Leota works in Australia.

“I work as a lawyer working with the Pacific Islanders and I think that is my way of playing my part,” he said.

Despite challenges of grasping language concepts and little practical experience the Taufao brothers are both privileged and confident in taking on the roles that come with their chief titles.

Leota said, there is a Samoan saying “o le ala i le pule o le tautua” (the path to leadership/authority is through service).

“Having done my part on this side of my family (Leota), is a privilege I will not take for granted.”