The So’otaga 2025 Conference was hosted this year by the Victoria University Samoan Students’ Association (VUSSA), marking a special moment as all six Samoan student associations across New Zealand gathered together for the first time in almost 10 years. 

The theme, “E Maota Tauave Samoa” (We carry the weight of Samoa) was a powerful reminder of the responsibility every young Samoan has to honour their culture, their families, and their future.

For Loleseti Poasa, President of VUSSA, hosting So’otaga was both an honour and a test of leadership.

“So’otaga is more than just a conference; it is a platform where our students come together to learn, share, and uplift one another, while remaining anchored in the traditions that shaped us. The challenge this year was ensuring all six associations felt respected and included. But through collaboration and commitment, we overcame it, and the strength of our shared vision shone through.”

Loleseti explained that while challenges came with organising such a large event, the outcome was worth it.

“When it comes to honouring Samoan culture, I believe in giving students the freedom to express themselves creatively while still staying true to our roots. That balance between tradition and innovation is what makes So’otaga unique.”

Each association leader reflected on the meaning of So’otaga and their hopes for the future:

Seanoa Leiataua (CUSSA – Canterbury University): “Being president meant serving as a link between my peers, our culture, and academic goals. So’otaga embodies connection, service, and unity, values that guided me in every interaction during this event.”

Sina Iese (AUTSSA – Auckland University of Technology, Acting President): “So’otaga has preserved key aspects of Samoan culture while also inspiring a new generation to lead with cultural integrity and purpose. It encourages unity and reminds us to carry forward our ancestors’ legacy with confidence.

Angelina Toelei’u (WUSSA – Waikato University): “For many of us raised overseas, culture often feels distant. So’otaga revives our passion for our identity and gives us the knowledge and confidence to carry our aganu’u into the future.”

Robert (UASSA – University of Auckland): “So’otaga reignites passion for our youth, reminding them of their roots while connecting them with like-minded peers across universities. We hope it continues to grow and reach more of our community.”

Shekinah Tofilau (OSSA – Otago University): “OSSA has always been our home away from home. So’otaga strengthened our bonds, reminding us that we are part of something bigger, a network of Samoan students united by cultural pride and shared goals.”

The heart of So’otaga lies in the experiences of the students themselves.

Lupeoaunuu Vaai (VUSSA) said, “Representing my university gave me a deep sense of belonging. Preparing for So’otaga showed me that cultural performances are more than practice – they are about honouring our identity and carrying the spirit of our ancestors.”

Faalelavalefaasamoa Tikeri (VUSSA) reflected on balancing studies and practices: “Even though it was challenging, we lived out the values of family, love, service, and respect. Our group became my second home, a reminder to never shy away from my culture.”

Asovalu Tauiliili (VUSSA) highlighted the workshops and her favourite moment: “Learning about lauga fa’asamoa, siva, and sulatoga deepened my understanding of culture. My favourite part was the ulufafo, which marked not just the end of our performance but also the end of a chapter with my fellow Manaaki scholars who became family.”

Sam Tautiaga (VUSSA) added: “So’otaga reminded me that no matter where I live, I will always be Samoan. It gave me pride in my identity and a stronger sense of responsibility to carry on our culture with respect and authenticity.”

Tui (AUTSSA) shared his hopes for the future: “Our generation is slowly modernising and losing grip on traditions. So’otaga gives us the chance to reconnect with our heritage. I pray it continues strong for future generations.”

Fetufou Ale (So’otaga Member) spoke with pride: “I wasn’t just representing my university, but also the people who supported us through fundraisers and prayers. I hope the audience saw that no matter how far we go from Samoa, we can still hold onto our culture. You can take the boy out of Samoa, but you can’t take the Samoan out of the boy.”

VUSSA Vice President Pepetoga Tauiliili said the main vision behind hosting So’otaga was to create memories and ensure every association had the freedom to showcase their creativity.

“This was the first time in nearly a decade that all six associations attended, so the pressure was high. But So’otaga isn’t just a cultural night, it’s about building community, sharing experiences, and forming bonds that last beyond university.”

She added that So’otaga strengthens connections across Samoan communities. “Being surrounded by people who share our cultural background is empowering. These connections form friendships and networks that support us through studies and life. So’otaga inspires us and reminds us that we’re part of something much bigger.”

The 2025 So’otaga was not only a showcase of traditional dances, songs, and speeches, but also a living reminder of the strength of Samoan identity in the diaspora. Students spoke of pride, belonging, and the importance of unity messages that were carried through every performance.