The Samoan community in Samoa and around the globe is united in grief following the passing of Su'a Julia Wallwork, the Country Director of A.D.R.A. Samoa. 

Su'a, a dedicated leader, had been at the forefront of A.D.R.A.'s mission in Samoa since 2009, overseeing project management, donor relations, and collaboration with international organisations and government ministries.

Her remarkable journey with A.D.R.A. began as a temporary role. Initially volunteering for just six months, she quickly became an integral part of the organisation, saying, "I never thought that this time in my life this is what I want to do. When I was called by the church to do this work, I said to them that it would only be for six months until they found someone to do it." 

Despite her initial intentions, she felt compelled to continue, noting, “Every day I could see where we needed to help.”

Her passion for service was evident in her daily work. “It has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life,” she reflected. “Not only that I have been blessed to work with a good team of workers, but with people who are dedicated and are willing to go the extra mile to help.” 

Su'a firmly believed in A.D.R.A.’s guiding motto: “Making a difference one life at a time.” She emphasised, “If we can make a difference in someone’s life, then we have achieved our goal.”

Su'a's resilience was rooted in her faith, as she expressed, “For A.D.R.A, it’s just gone from one step to another. I kept thinking we will do this and then that’s it, however, God opens doors and even when those doors seem to close, God opens them again.” 

Her approach was both practical and heartfelt. 

“I said this to my team that we have to have eyes in our hearts so that when we look we feel, don’t just look and walk, but look and feel where the need is. See with your heart then you will feel the need.”

Following her passing on Thursday, tributes flooded social media, with many sharing their memories of Su'a and the impact she had on their lives. 

Susana Victor, a former liaison officer for the Pacific American Climate Fund Project at A.D.R.A. Samoa, fondly recalled, “Her kindness and generosity ensured my attendance [at morning devotion], and I’m grateful for the experience. Su'a believed in my potential, and her encouragement has stayed with me.” 

She noted how Su'a's mentorship paved the way for her career success, saying, “Thank you, Su'a, for your selfless service; your legacy lives on, inspiring others to strive for greatness.”

Mele Mauala also expressed her sorrow, describing Su'a as “a beautiful soul whose generosity knew no bounds, whose love was always given freely.” She highlighted the transformative impact of Su'a’s legacy on generations of Samoans.

Su'a Wallwork hailed from the villages of Gagaifolevao Lefaga and Vaoala and was married to the late Seiuli Paul Wallwork. Together, they raised three children, instilling in them the values of love and service that characterised Su'a’s life. 

Her influence will be felt for years to come as the community remembers a leader who truly made a difference.