Tongans reflecting on 2009

“In the Pacific, it is generally thought that people walk forward into the past and they walk backwards into the future, where the past and future are constantly fused and diffused in the present…this means that the onus of preserving the past and the mapping of the future- whether they be for culture’s sake or the humanity of future generations--rests squarely on our shoulders in the present." ~Hufanga Dr. ‘Okusitino Mahina

As Pacific people our journey through this life will always be connected, whether it’s by genealogical and kainga ties, social connections and interactions, through words, dances, stories and histories, or merely by our claim to a land base, to a village, to an ocean – we are always somehow connected! We have chosen various Tongans who represent our community as a whole but also represent their individual selves who, regardless of their geographical location, are never fully separated from us. They have agreed to share their memories and their stories of 2009, which serve as a reminder that our work in the present is never disconnected from our past and future! On behalf of the Planet Tonga website, we wish all of you a blessed New Year filled with love, joy and happiness! [This article was first published on the Planet Tonga website]

--‘Anapesi Ka’ili
anapesi@gmail.com

MELE SUNGU TONGA HAUNGA



Mele Sungu Tonga Haunga is the daughter of Sione "Tae" Tonga and Teukialupe Taumoepeau Tonga. Her maternal grandparents Tevita Alamoti and Mele sungu Taumoepeau raised Mele in Laie, Hawaii since she was a child. Mele's Tongan genealogical roots hail from the villages of Kolonga in Tongatapu and Kotu & Pangai in Ha'apai. She is married to Sesimoni Haunga of Leimatua and has 4 children, Siaosi, Kiteau, Sosiua, and Eva. Mele represents the strength of many young Tongan women who continue to juggle family life as a wife and a mother of four young children, while also pursing her academic career where she graduated this December with a degree in Social work from BYU-Hawaii where she also served as the former head of the BYUHSA Family Life Department.

Most memorable accomplishment of 2009
My most memorable accomplishment was walking across the stage during the graduation commencement and hearing my name being called out as I received my degree! I couldn't hold back the tears from falling so freely because I knew how much my kids and husband had sacrificed for me so that this day may be possible, and also knowing first hand my own struggles of trying to balance school, my roles as a mother, wife and daughter.

Most impactful event of 2009
Struggling with personal health issues throughout the year has impacted me, my family and even the possibilities of graduating. It became a stumbling block at times and it was discouraging and made it difficult to continue with my education. I had to deal with repeats, incompletes, and makeups while still trying to move forward to the next semester. What kept me going was the thought that I could NOT allow myself to be defeated, so I had to change my way of thinking from "I can’t do this" to "I CAN do this" and always remembering that at the end, only I will know the depths of my struggles and the taste of what it took to succeed.

Most influential person of 2009
Mi papa Alamoti Taumoepeau! I am today a product and creation of his. Everything I do, believe in and practice has been embedded in me from the mere age of 6 months old. I owe all my accomplishments to him because of the impact he has made in my life through his lengthy lectures of advice and knowledge that was often shared with me while growing up as a child and into my adulthood. There were a lot of key factors that he focused on which were all based on love but the three that stood out the most for me were: 1) Love for the culture and being Tongan, 2) Love for the people but especially family and 3) Love for knowledge learned through orators of our culture and in the classrooms of the western world. I can say today that I have been successful thus far in the 3 loves that he has taught me about and I still have a lot more to learn.


NAUFAHU ANITONI TAHI



Naufahu Anitoni Tahi is the son of Manu Mapuhola Tahi and Sioseline Vaitai. His paternal grandparents are Siale Tahi from Ha'ateiho and Kaufo'ou Anitoni from 'Utulau. His maternal grandparents are Samuela Fakatou Vaitai from Pokotala and Felemea and Ngauna Vou Taofoloa from Pangai and Felemea. Naufahu is currently enjoying his 4th year in the NFL playing for the Minnesota Vikings. He has served as a contributing writer for the Daily Herald Newspaper in Provo, Utah, where he played for and graduated from BYU. His success on the football field dates back to his high school days at Granger High School in West Valley City, Utah where he was named USA-Today's player of the year for the state of Utah during his senior year. He continued his success at BYU, where as a freshman he led his team in rushing and helped pave the way for BYU fullbacks throughout his collegiate career. Today, he has become the Vikings primary fullback and continues to pave the way for young Tongan males who dream of one day making it into the NFL. Naufahu is married to Alisa Tahi and they have two kids Maile and Lincoln.

Most memorable accomplishment of 2009
My most memorable accomplishment this year was being involved with the G.I.F.T.ED (Grid Island Football Training and Education) camp that took place this summer in Utah. It was a huge success and turned out to be bigger than we had expected considering it was our first year organizing it. We received such great feedback from all involved (children and parents) and we were able to highlight both education and football. I was happy to see so many members of our community come together to help our children succeed. Thank you to everyone who was involved; the H.Y.P.E. (Helping Youth Pursue Emancipation) Movement crew, Gabe Reid, Reno Mahe and many others. We were so happy with how many of our Polynesian kids participated!

Most impactful event of 2009
The G.I.F.T.ED camp really impacted me the most this year because it meant so much to see our Polynesian community come together for our kids and to be able to provide something positive and to make it FREE was big for me! It was something that I have always dreamed of doing and wished I had something like it when I was growing up. Being able to give back, even if it’s just a little, to help our people and community and to see their reaction and hear their feedback made me very happy! It also got me excited for this upcoming year and for the future of this program we've put together. One of the unique things about this camp is that we chose to emphasize education off the field and in the classroom just as well as on the field. What stood out to me the most was that the kids wanted to be there! With everything that our community has gone through in the last few years with gangs and our kids fighting against each other, it was huge to have them come together for a good cause for themselves and for our people!

Most influential person of 2009
The most influential person in my life is my mom! She has been my rock and my number #1 cheerleader throughout my life. She's been the greatest example to me with the great love she has for the Savior and her strength, patience, and humility. She never gave up on me! She always stood by my side regardless of the situation. She always believed in every one of us kids and would do anything for us to make sure we had what we needed every day in school, sports, and church.


ELENI SENTILANI TOLUTA'U



Eleni Sentilani Toluta'u is the daughter of Viliami Asipeli Havea Toluta'u from Pangaimotu, Vavau and Sheila Grover Toluta'u from Anchorage, Alaska. She is the grandaughter of Vavau Litia Havea Toluta’u from Holonga, Tongatapu and Viliami Toluta'u of Pangaimotu, Vava'u. Eleni is currently a full time student at BYU-Provo, where she is a model for the Fine Arts department and also works at BYU's subway. Eleni represents the immense strength of our youth who seek to volunteer their talents and energy to bring about a positive change in our communities. She is a member of the hip-hop club and volunteers as a mentor for students at Timpanogoes Elementary School while also teaching Tahitian dance lessons once a week. She is also the newly crowned Miss Tonga Utah 2009-2010.

Most memorable accomplishment of 2009
My most memorable accomplishment this year would have to be winning the title of Miss Tonga Utah 2009-2010. This was memorable for me because it was the first pageant I have ever participated in. I feel blessed to wear both the state of Utah and the country and culture in which I was born on my sash. It is my main goal, as Miss Tonga Utah, to serve and educate not only Utah, but the entire world about our beautiful culture and people.

Most impactful event of 2009
In May of this year I had the opportunity of traveling with a group of Polynesians to Kuwait to perform for American soldiers. My appreciation and respect for the troops increased tremendously as a result of this trip. My idea of service was redefined as I watched these soldiers work so diligently for our country. This trip inspired me to do my part as an American citizen and to serve others anyway I can. Fortunately, being Miss Tonga Utah has helped to provide numerous opportunities for me to serve others.

Most influential person of 2009
My father Viliami Toluta’u has been the most influential person in my life. He is the pioneer of our family. He was the first of 13 children to graduate from high school and college and the first to be baptized into the LDS church. My father made it a decision to work hard in school because he wanted to provide a better life for his future family. My father is now an Art Professor at BYU-Hawaii. My dad's life has ultimately influenced me not only to go to college, but to value education as it will provide many opportunities for me in the future. As I see the fruit of my dad's labor, I am inspired to accomplish the goals I have set for myself.

MAKISIMINO VAIVAO



Makisimino Vaivao (a.k.a Mino) is the son of Salima Vaivao of Lapaha and Simoni Moala of Longoteme. His paternal grandparents are Vaivao Na`a from Vava'u and Seini Falemanu of Lapaha. His maternal grandparents are Misilio Tuakalau and Latu Vaisima of Longoteme. Mino is a member of one of Australias hottest rising Reggae bands 'VTRIBE'. Mino and his brothers formed the 10 member band Vtribe. They have shared the stage with some awesome bands amongst which are Katchafire, Adeaze, Nesian Mystic, Ardijah, Jboog just to name a few. Vtribe is currently working on their debut album 'Ghetto Roots' soon to be released early 2010. You can check out their music their bebo page and myspace.

Most memorable accomplishment of 2009
My brothers and I have done a lot this year that we`re proud of and have achieved most of the goals we had set ourselves for 09. We started our band in 2005 and to still be going strong 4 years later is truly a blessing, especially when I have 4 brothers onstage with me. There is no greater feeling than to know that we all share the same dream and work hard to make it reality. Every gig, Every performance is a learning experience. Every week is an accomplishment.

Most impactful event of 2009
The devastating events of the Ashika Ferry and the Tsunami Disaster will have a long lasting impact on not only myself, But all Pacific Islanders. To me it is our September 11th, Such great loss of life to our people. Through these hard times I was inspired by the Pacific nations Uniting as ONE to help those in need back home. Performing at Numerous Relief concerts I was amazed and humbled by the support of the non-pacific communities, which is how it should be, One people. One Love...

Most influential person of 2009
My mum and dad- Salima and Simoni Vaivao. My dad for his beliefs, patience and teachings on what would be our way of life. Music!! The ultimate gift. My mum for being the ROCK and FOUNDATION of our family. With my dad not being able to work because of his illness in the late 80`s, my mum supported 6 kids and paid the mortgage on her own. Now that I'm a grown man I still don’t know how my mum coped on her own! She is the strongest woman I know. Who we are today is because of them and we dedicate our life to them. 'Ofa atu.


MARYANNE FEIFAI PALE



Maryanne Feifai Pale is the daughter of Laolao 'i Pangai Pale and Sinai Takala Pale both from the village of Vaini in Tongatapu. Her paternal grandparents are Uata Vaihola Pale of Holonga and Takataka-mo-Tonga and Mele Feifai Pale of Vaini. Her maternal grandparents are Siofilisi Misinale of Tefisi, Vava'u and 'Ana Fokikovi Misinale of Vaini. Maryanne is currently engaged in her doctoral research study. Her research topic focuses on investigating the relationship between English vocabulary instruction and English reading comprehension in Tongan bilingual contexts/classrooms in South Auckland Schools in New Zeland. Maryanne recently traveled to Western Samoa following the aftermath of the tsunami with a team from the University of Auckland’s Faculty of Education to present a container of donations for the people of the village of Lalomanu.

Most memorable accomplishment of 2009
My most memorable accomplishment for 2009 was establishing the “Empowering Pasifika in Communities Charitable Trust” (EPIC Charitable trust) with the help of 6 Trustees. The EPIC Charitable Trust, (recognised by the NZ Charities Commission), is aimed to assist Pasifika communities within the South Auckland region in New Zealand with community development projects that provide and promote educational advice, training and advocacy. As a team, we are currently working on building the foundation for the EPIC Charitable Trust. Once the Trust is actively running within the South Auckland region, we hope that it will make a strong positive impact on all Pasifika communities. I would like to acknowledge and thank the 6 Trustees; Lose Neiufi, Ben and Melenaite Tameifuna, Loleine Poaki and Tala’ofa Finau and Lisiate Tovo Tuione. They contributed tremendously to the planning which enabled the successful establishment of the EPIC Charitable Trust in August 2009. EPIC Charitable Trust has also received assistance from Lisiate Langi and Czarina Wilson and I would also like to acknowledge and thank them for their time and expertise. This is my most memorable accomplishment for 2009 because it is huge part of my personal journey. It is also the beginning of something wonderful for the Trustees and I. Together, we would like to be actively engaged within Pasifika communities in the South Auckland region and by establishing the EPIC Charitable Trust we believe that it will provide numerous opportunities for us to do so.

Most impactful event of 2009
An experience that has impacted my life was my visit to Western Samoa in November 2009 with a team from the Faculty of Education, The University of Auckland. We travelled to Western Samoa to present a 20 foot crate filled with donations that The University of Auckland Staff, Colleagues, Students and general public made to the 28 families that were affected by the Tsunami in the village of Lalomanu. As I walked along the shoreline of Lalomanu village (the worst hit village), the debris that was scattered along the beachfront confirmed the enormity of the devastation that the Tsunami had caused. As I looked around at other villages, it was heart-rending to even begin to comprehend what the Tsunami victims had experienced during this severe tragedy. The Tsunami left many family members, friends and villagers in shock and this was felt by many nations around the world who provided relief in many different ways. I was amazed at the resilience that the survivors exhibited which put everything into perspective for me. Personally, this trip to Samoa affirmed the importance of spending quality time with family members and those close to your heart. In addition, it reflected the importance of giving to those in need which in turn makes a huge difference in their lives. I returned to NZ with an appreciation of my experience in Samoa.

Most influential person of 2009
The two most influential people in my life are my parents; Laolao ‘i Pangai and Sinai Takala Pale. They have been the two people that have continuously inspired me to acknowledge God’s grace in my life and seek the goodness in everyone. They encourage me to strive for what I believe in and acknowledge the helping hands that have supported me in my endeavours. They have taught me to be humble in every step of my journey and to deal with issues that I may encounter along the way. My parents have placed me on their shoulders which have enabled me to reach my dreams and they have stood strong beside me each time I felt discouraged and motivated me to keeping ongoing. I am where I stand today because of the prayers and loving support shown by my parents.


TAIMANI LAUTI



Taimani Lauti is the son of Tevita Manueveaha Lauti from Ha'afeva and Vava'u and Losimani Toala of Ha'akame and 'Uiha. He is married to Soana Mani and they have four children; Tevita, Giovanni, Fahina and Henilieta. Taimani currenlty works for the Chevron Federal Real Estate Dept, where his department focuses on helping Chevron employees around the world find permanent housing throughout the United States. Taimani is a devout Christian and is currently serving as the Stake President for Oakland East Tongan Stake of the LDS Church in the Bay Area.

Most memorable accomplishment of 2009
My memorable accomplishment this year was completing my MBA degree. It's memorable because of the two year journey it took to get to that moment. It was a challenge juggling family life, work, and church together with school. There were a lot of stressful times during this period. There were times I definitely felt like giving up. I was lucky to have a great support system at home that really motivated me to keep going. During the Hooding and Commencement program I had this feeling of, "is this really happening". I remember looking out into the audience that day and seeing my family especially my wife and kids and it felt awesome to share that day with them.

Most impactful event of 2009
The financial meltdown of our economy has greatly impacted the way I view and live my life. You never know what's going to happen tomorrow. Be thankful for what you have now because tomorrow is unsure. The state of our economy makes me realize how vulnerable we are if we are not prepared. I've seen so many people lose their homes, wealth, and sanity over this economic crisis. Through all of this it has inspired me to be more focused and to think more strategically in regards to what decisions I make today that will give me the greatest benefit tomorrow.

Most influential person of 2009
My father has always been a great influence on me, not so much in what he says but how he continues to live his life--A life of integrity and commitment to family which has inspired me to do the same.


MA'ELE UNGA VAITAI



Ma’ele Unga Vaitai is the eldest daughter of eleven siblings born to Willis Lui 'Unga of Ha’alaufuli, Vava’u and Lola Lavaki 'Unga of Neiafutahi. Her paternal grandparents are Lihati Lui 'Unga of Ha’alaufuli, Vava’u and Toa'ila Tui'ile'ila of Pangai, Ha'apai. Her maternal grandparents are Sione Alamoti Lavaki of Talau, Vava’u and Oloka Wolfgramm Lavaki of Neiafutahi. Ma’ele is married to Jared Fakatou Vaitai and they have four beautiful children. Ma’ele is a living example of those who recognize their passions and follow their dreams. She has turned her passion of creating images into a professional career in the field of photography. You can view her work by visiting her website

Most memorable accomplishment of 2009
This year I set out to find my purpose in the industry of photography and to pinpoint which work I felt a passion and drive for. Families are one of my favorite photography sessions. Although every session speaks to me, somehow the organized chaos of a family makes sense to me and I am able to be in my element (the element of families). I am blessed to be able to catch those rare moments in a still image that can be remembered forever.

Most impactful event of 2009
This past year I learned that my seven year old niece was suffering from 65% deafness and that her insurance refused to cover the cost for her hearing aids. My sister’s only desire was to provide her daughter with hearing aids but needed to raise $12,000 to cover the cost. In an effort to make that dream a reality our family came together to help raise the funds. This provided me with an opportunity to use my photography skills to make a difference and to bring awareness to this unfair policy practiced by many health insurance providers. I learned through this experience that giving back and showing love is worth more than anything that monetary value can provide. I am inspired to create that same feeling throughout the year and to always give back. The ultimate reward of our hard work was hearing the stories of my niece being able to hear the small things we usually take for granted like water running in the tub, shoes walking on gravel, etc. That made my year and I couldn't have felt more grateful and blessed.

Most influential person of 2009
The most influential person in my life has been my mother. She passed away when I was very young but her legacy lives on in her journals. The first images that intrigued me in life came from her wedding photo album. I felt so emotional just from looking at those images and I knew that they were priceless. They represented so much love. I learned about the power of images and how it could evoke emotions that would be regenerated every time I viewed them. I want to be like her; to love unconditionally, to serve, to forgive, to remember and to endure. I will always aspire to do my best because of her.


TONGA POTEKI MALOHIFO'OU VAEA



Tonga Poteki Malohifo'ou Vaea is the son of Fatafehi Siamelie Vaea and Ivoni Vaea. His paternal grandparents are Pasimi Vaea and Fane Pasimi Vaea of Fangale'ounga, Ha'apai and 'Uiha, Ha'apai and his maternal grandparents are Siaosi Vuna Takitaki Malohi Tupou and Siulolovao Fangaafua Vuna Tupou from Nuku’alofa, Tongatapu. Tonga is the ultimate musician; he is a music teacher, songwriter, composer, plays more than ten instruments, a former band member of the popular group Spacifix and currently plays with one of the hottest reggae bands in New Zealand—Three Houses Down. Check out their bebo page.

Most memorable accomplishment of 2009
One of my most memorable achievements this year was the release of our second album “Breakout”. I felt that it was a true representation of our musical progression as a band from our first album “Dreadtown”. It has also been very humbling to know that it was recognized by many and went on to be on NZ’s top 40 music charts. .

Most impactful event of 2009
What I found to be really inspiring this year is seeing the next generation take hold of the torch in the area of music, more importantly I love seeing my own family, nieces and nephews excelling in something they too have a strong passion for.

Most influential person of 2009
The biggest inspiration in my life would not be a certain person but people as a whole. My family have been the backbone. They have helped me to be where I am at today. I remember when I was only 7 years old and getting rides to piano lessons with my older sister, she was awesome!!! Thanks sis!!! One of my funniest memories was when I was twelve, my mum and dad would sit in the front row at my trumpet recitals smiling with great pride while I was playing flat! Thank you to my family for all their support over the years!


TEVITA UESI



Tevita Uesi is the son of Heamoni & Silia Uesi of Nukunuku and 'Uiha. His paternal grandparents are Sione Private Uesi and Luisa Lavulo of Nukunuku and his maternal grandparents are Viliami Fihaki and Losaline Hautau of Nukunuku and 'Uiha. Tevita is a Senior at the University of Utah majoring in Music. Tevita is involved in student government, serving as the student body representative for the Fine Arts department at the University of Utah and as the President of the Pacific Islander Student Association. He has been on the Dean’s list every semester and became the first student of color to be a drum Major at the University of Utah.

Most memorable accomplishment of 2009
My most memorable accomplishment this year was probably being able to attend the 2009 Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C. with the U of U marching band! In doing so, the marching Utes were able to raise $175,000-$200,000 in 3 weeks just in time to fly to Washington D.C. and witness first hand President Barack Obama take oath in becoming our nation’s first black president. We toured different businesses around the salt lake valley for donations, playing "Utah Man" 100 times for the public to donate money for the trip! This couldn't have been possible if it weren't for donations brought in from alumni, businesses, the community, and of course our family and friends. Attending the event was definitely an unforgettable experience. So thank U to everyone who helped with the donation drive! It was a success!!!

Most impactful event of 2009
'Apitanga 2009 held at the Laumalie Ma'oni'oni church where we got to spend time with family from New Zealand, Australia, and Tonga.

Most influential person of 2009
The most influential person in my life is my uncle Faungaofe, a very well known musician back in Tonga. He was known for playing all sorts of instruments from the cornet, euphonium, ukulele, tuba, bass (they didn't have a bass guitar back then), trombone, keyboard, etc. He died at the age of 19. His legacy still lives on.