For Samoa's top policewoman, time management has enabled her to juggle her hectic schedule between being the Deputy Police Commissioner and a mother to three children. 

Papali'i Monalisa Keti, 37, is the first woman in Samoa to become the Deputy Commissioner in the Samoa Police Service (S.P.S.). Her elevation in May last year came 14 years after she joined the S.P.S.

Speaking in an interview with the Samoa Observer, Papali'i said the only wish she has for the 2019 Mothers Day celebrations is for her children to remain disciplined.

She said she does not have any plans for the Mother's Day long weekend other than "staying home and look after the kids".

When asked how she manages to juggle such a demanding job with her motherly duties, she said the secret is time management.

"I usually set a rule that when I go home it’s time for the kids. So I try and do all the work at the office and then home is home."

The Deputy Commissioner also credited her family for continuing to support her as a mother, especially extended families and the important role they continue to play in raising children in Samoa. 

"I think in Samoa we are fortunate enough because we’ve got families and you know we’ve got extended families that most of the time we rely on so I think that’s the good thing about raising kids and raising a family in Samoa because you have the support of those who can help you when you need the support," she said.    

The most important role of a mother is also about being there when your children need you and stepping up to provide the support that is needed when they have issues, she added.

Papali'i said she nothing but the best of enjoyment for all the mothers of Samoa during the long weekend.

"Wanting all the mums to enjoy the weekend and [the] best thing is really spending time with the family. I hope they enjoy the long weekend and spend time with their kids, husbands and families and for all of them to enjoy the day and really appreciate the value of being a mum."