N.Z. High Commission and Rotary support Samoa Observer Tusitala Story competition

13 December 2017, 12:00AM

New Zealand High Commissioner to Samoa and Rotarian, David Nicholson, will present the Samoan-based finalists of the Samoa Observer’s 2018 Tusitala Short Story Competition with copies of a new publication — Samoan Heroes —  at the competition’s prize giving, tonight.

 “The New Zealand High Commission is delighted to be associated with the Rotary Club of Apia’s Samoan Heroes initiative; particularly so in that it is being gifted to recognise this year’s Samoa Observer’s Tusitala Short Story literary ‘heroes’, ” said Mr. Nicholson.

 “There is a great synergy between the release of the ‘Samoan Heroes’ publication and the promotion of creativity and storytelling through short story writing — both give an important voice to Samoan identity and success. 

 “Hopefully, this book will inspire each recipient to continue to reach for greatness — just like those profiled on Samoan Heroes’ pages — whatever their chosen field may be; as writers, in politics or academia, through music or cultural pursuits, or on the sports field,” he said.  

Supported by the New Zealand High Commission, Samoa Stationary and Books (S.S.A.B) and the Rotary Club of Apia, ‘Samoan Heroes’ is a collection of stories, written by South Auckland high school teacher, David Riley, with illustrations by Samoan artist, Michel Mulipola, about inspirational people of Samoan ancestry. 

The book includes stories on contemporary heroes, such as  Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, Troy Polamalu, Judge Ida Mālosi, Savage, and Associate Professor Donna Adis; historical figures, like Emma Coe, Tamasese, Salamāsina, and Lauaki; and Samoan legends, such as Sina, Tiʻitiʻi and Tigilau. 

‘Samoan Heroes’ has already been distributed to secondary schools across Upolu and Savaii, with the goal of motivating Samoa’s youth to realise their full potential.

 “We hope the cultural links and the stories highlighted in the book will create an affinity that resonates with young people and their families; encouraging them to think big and dream big,” said Rotary Club President, Louise Main. 

Copies of ‘Samoan Heroes’ will be presented to the Nelson Memorial Library, in Apia, so members of the public are able to read and borrow it, as well. 

The Rotary Club of Apia extends their thanks and gratitude to the New Zealand High Commission in Samoa, S.S.A.B., David Riley, Michel Mulipola, and the many Rotarian volunteers who assisted and supported the ‘Samoan Heroes’ project.

13 December 2017, 12:00AM

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