Hundreds of people marched on the street on 30 July to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of the Marist Brothers Old Pupils Association (MBOPA).

The march stopped traffic as people walked to the Government Building Eleele Fou to hear speeches from Fuiono Fa’ia Westerlund and Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa. 

“Today, we reflect on the many successes of its members, and the contribution to all facets of Samoa’s development,” Fiame said, adding the contribution of MBOPA to sectors such as government, education, sports, and more.  

Toward the end of the speeches, Fiame cut the ceremonial centennial cake and the hundreds in attendance began to sing Happy Birthday. 

“I praise God that MBOPA has reached 100 years and is still going strong,” said Aumua Ming Leung Wai, president of MBOPA. “The support shown for MBOPA’s centennial has been tremendous from the Government of Samoa, businesses, families, friends and other associations. I am truly humbled and grateful.” 

Members from around the world traveled to Samoa to be present at this ceremonial event. 

The celebration began on 29 July with a mass at Lepea Catholic Church and a traditional ava ceremony at St. Joseph’s College and will continue until 4 August with events such as music festivals, fundraisers and sports events. 

“I acknowledge our forefathers who started the association and laid the platform for us to build upon,” Aumua said. “The challenge now is to remain true to the Marist Spirit but at the same time adapt with the changing times.” 

The President of the Samoa College Old Pupils Association (S.C.O.P.A.)Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi congratulated Marist Brothers Old Pupils Association (M.B.O.P.A) Centennial celebration on Tuesday.

"Thank God for the 100 Years celebrated by Marist Old Pupils. Taking this opportunity on behalf of S.C.O.P.A. to send out our well wishes to the 100 Years celebration. It was great to see this morning the old men and those who paved the way for the young ones. Marist have also contributed so much to the development of Samoa," he said.

"Blessings and well wishes for this week's celebrations. My prayers is for them to continue serving our country, church and school. Marist is well known in Samoa for a lot of things such as education, sports and so forth."