Anastasia Pagostar Maiai was crowned as the first-ever Miss Tausala America last weekend. 

In an interview with Samoa Observer on Thursday, she revealed key areas she will focus on promoting in her reign.

"The starting area as of now would be to promote our Samoan language and Siva Samoa in Utah, America and hopefully I get to visit other states if God willing," said the 25-year-old.

"Miss Tausala America pageant brings our people together to preserve and celebrate our Samoan culture and heritage. This platform helps our tamaita'i Samoa to showcase their unique talents, and confidence, and of service to our people."

Miss Maiai is from the villages of Moamoa, Alamagoto, Fasito'o, Leulumoega, Salelologa, Laulii, Vaitele, Saipipi and Moata'a. Her parents are Va'afusuaga Maletino Maiai and Josephine Schuster Maiai. She described the competition as challenging and tough as all her fellow contestants were great at what they did.

"The competition was very challenging. All my beautiful contestant sisters represented their families and sponsors with love and honour. I feel honoured and grateful for winning the title of Miss Tausala America 2024. It's always been a dream of mine to join the Miss Samoa pageant but never would have thought I'll be winning a title in America."

Miss Maiai grew up in Samoa before leaving for the United States to help her family financially.

"I was born and raised in Samoa. I graduated from Saint Mary's Primary in Savalalo. Graduated from Saint Mary's College in Vaimoso and left Samoa in 2016 to help support my family back home. I have so many great memories of Samoa that I cannot list all of them," she said.

"I miss doing chores at home, eating and drinking fresh coconut, cooking food for my big family, and attending church on Sundays as well as Sunday school. I also miss walking everywhere when I was in Samoa."

Miss Maiai secured her title after winning Best Interview, Best Puletasi, Best Sarong and Best Siva Samoa.