“The chiefly title ‘Maiava’ is from my mother’s side and I chose to take up the title to honour her.”
This was the heartfelt response from Coreen Samuelu, a young mother and the eldest of five, when speaking with Samoa Newshub.
In her interview, Maiava said this is one of the achievements she will never forget, and receiving the title will not change the way she serves her family.
She said tautua (service) guides her actions, a value she learned from her parents, the late Siologa Faasipa and Sita Siologa.
“Even though my dad has passed away, this is another role he prepared me for. Taking care of my mother, my siblings, and my children is a sacrifice and a responsibility.
But when I remember my parents’ words from when I was a young girl — encouraging me to do great things and to love my family — I gain the courage to stand for my loved ones,” she said.
The Maiava title bestowed upon Coreen is from the village of Safotu.
“I’m the first in our generation from my mum’s side to receive a chief title. I feel honoured and humbled.”
Maiava believes in the Samoan proverb, O le ala i le pule o le tautua (the path to leadership is through service). She hopes to continue serving her family with humility and to uphold her family’s customs, traditions, and culture.
She also expresses gratitude to her mother’s family for considering her for the title, and thanks her mother, siblings, husband Samuelu, and her in-laws for their support.
