Maruseana Sititi is trying to build a legacy of her own, something that will outshine the family's rugby legacy.

The 26-year-old is the daughter of former Manu Samoa captain Lemalu Semo Sititi and the older sister of All Blacks Wallace Sititi.

Wearing the sash of Miss Tapa Creations, Maruseana represents Alafua, Lotopa, Tufulele, and Poutasi Falealili. 

Maruseana said her parents have played a big role in shaping who she is today. Born in Samoa, she spent much of her childhood abroad following her father’s rugby career.

“I was born in Samoa but brought up in Japan for seven years. Then we moved to Scotland for five years, and England for a bit. Wherever dad worked, that’s where we went,” she recalled. In 2013, the family settled in New Zealand.

Growing up in different countries taught Maruseana to value her roots and the strength of family.

“I’ve always looked up to my mum and dad. They set a strong foundation for me and my siblings. Because of that foundation, I am who I am as a Tamaitai Samoa,” she said.

“I want to carry on my family’s legacy, but in my own way. My parents have always taught me to do it my own way,” she said.

For her, joining Miss Samoa 2025 is a homecoming journey.

“Growing up, this has always been a journey of coming back home. Not just to Samoa as a place, but to where my parents were raised. You can talk about Samoa from abroad, but it’s so different being here and experiencing it,” she said.

“That’s one of the reasons I wanted to come back — to know who I am as a Tamaitai Samoa.”

She admits her decision also came with timing and purpose.

“I’m 26, and I’m not getting any younger,” she laughed. 

“I just hope I can encourage others to chase their dreams. No matter how far they may seem, it’s never too far to reach.”

She said one of the most special memories from her pageant experience was the two-day retreat she spent with the 12 Miss Samoa contestants. She explained that none of them knew where they were going until they arrived in Falealili.

“That village is actually my mum’s village, and it has been more than twenty years since I was last there. So being back was very emotional,” she said.

“It was truly humbling for me, and it’s one of the moments I’ll always remember. I thought to myself, God is so good because He knew what I needed — to come back home. That’s my journey and the reason why I wanted to run.”

Maruseana’s family will be cheering her on at the crowning night on November 8, except for her brother Wallace, who will be playing a rugby match on the same day.

“He’s been calling and messaging me, praying for me. We always support each other,” she said. “Even if we can’t be there in person, the purpose remains the same — God first.”

Looking beyond the pageant, Maruseana hopes to continue serving her people.