Samoa has lost the inspiring Seumalu Shelley Burich. She was well known as a vanilla farmer, businesswoman, and strong advocate for women and communities across Samoa and the Pacific.

Shelley was the founder of Vaoala Vanilla, Samoa’s only commercial vanilla farm. What started as a small family project grew into a business that connected Samoa to the world. Under her leadership, Vaoala Vanilla showed how Pacific products could reach global markets while keeping local values. She focused on sustainable farming and helped other local farmers learn new skills so they could earn better incomes and meet international standards.

Shelley was also the President of the Samoa Women’s Association of Growers (SWAG) for four years. She worked hard to support small and medium-sized women business owners. She was passionate about promoting organic farming and reducing the use of harmful chemicals on the land. Many admired her as a brilliant public speaker and a generous mentor who shared her knowledge with others.

Before focusing fully on her vanilla business, Shelley served as the CEO of the Samoa Cancer Society. She stepped down in 2020 after many years of service to build on her 13-year-old vanilla venture.

Shelley’s contribution went beyond farming. She served as a board member of the Pacific Cooperation Foundation, where her leadership helped strengthen communities across Samoa and the wider Pacific region.

Seumalu Shelley Burich will be remembered for her kindness, her courage to innovate, and her deep love for Samoa. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire farmers, women entrepreneurs, and communities for many years to come.