Life lessons with a former Miss Samoa

By Elizabeth Ah-Hi 06 September 2018, 12:00AM

The nine contestants of the Miss Samoa this year were welcomed by Amoa Resort Savaii’s Managing Director and former Miss Samoa, Anita Jamieson Caffarelli on Monday.

She gave a motivational talk, offering words of advice and encouragement to the contestants days out from the big event.

Underlining the historical significance of the 33 year old pageant being held on the big island for the first time, Jamieson-Caffarelli paid homage to the outgoing Savaiian Miss Samoa 2017-2018, Papalii Alexandra Iakopo for her successful reign.

She acknowledged how special it was for the island of Savaii to host this years’ Miss Samoa.

“To the nine beautiful and brave contestants, you are Samoa’s heroes,” said Jamieson- Caffarelli. 

“Your presence on the Big island has caused so much excitement at all levels of our humble communities and villages. My Savaiian husband mentioned that never has he witnessed such a show of collective community spirit. All along the roads, I see young men, women and children laughing away while decorations are in progress.”

The former Miss Samoa encouraged the girls to harness their strengths because their collective achievements is essential for the future of Samoa. She also shared some tough lessons on what upholding the honour of the Miss Samoa title would mean for the crowned contestant. 

“Your actions, your words, what you wear and your size will be scrutinized by the public, some flattering and some cruel. I’d like to say you develop thick skin but honestly, it will still hurt you, it will depress you more so now that social media is an easy platform used by some to criticize.”

“So ladies brace yourself  - take these challenges head on and comfort yourself in knowing that if God is for us who can be against us? Any weapon  formed against you will not prosper with God as your shield.”

In closing, Jamieson Caffarelli gave one final piece of advice by evoking the wisdom of one beloved former Miss Samoa, the late Manamea Apelu Schwalger.

“The last advice I will impart on you today is one I learned from Manamea, a warrior that was taken too soon. She said repeatedly during her fight against cancer that ‘everyday is a gift’. Please reflect on that and ponder that is relevant in your life right now. For me, its another day to redeem one self, another day to do good unto others, another chance to say sorry and to love.”

The luncheon invitees and contestants enjoyed a local fusion meal.

By Elizabeth Ah-Hi 06 September 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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