A group of 40 high school students from Australia and New Zealand visited Samoa last week to connect with local youth and take part in cultural exchange and leadership activities.

The students, aged 16 to 18, were part of a youth group called Mana e Alofa from the Future Leaders Academy, an organisation that helps develop young leaders through travel and learning programs. During their time in Samoa, they visited schools, took part in cultural experiences, and built friendships with local students, including those from Samoa College.

As part of their visit, the group made a kind donation of $307 to the Oloamanu Centre for Professional Development and Continuing Education (OCPDCE). This Centre, based at the Le Papaigalagala Campus, runs the Community Program for Vocational Education and Training (CPVET), which provides life skills and vocational training for youth who are not in school or work.

The donation was given to support the Centre’s ongoing work to help young people in Samoa prepare for jobs and future opportunities. Even though the donation was small, it came with a message of care, leadership, and unity among Pacific youth.

“We are truly thankful to the Mana e Alofa group and the Future Leaders Academy for their generosity,” said a representative from the Oloamanu Centre for Professional Development and Continuing Education. Their visit and support mean a lot to us and show the power of youth working together.”

The visit is part of the Future Leaders Academy’s mission to build global awareness, encourage cultural understanding, and empower young people to lead with purpose.

The Oloamanu Centre for Professional Development and Continuing Education extends its heartfelt thanks to the group and wishes them success as they continue to grow as future leaders.