HOW YOU CAN HELP
Grants, sponsors and donations allow us to:
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Enrich Cultural Programs – Empowering youth through leadership training, Siva Samoa workshops, and school outreach across Utah.
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Expand Community Services – Providing meals, mentorship, and cultural education to underserved families.
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Grow Our Global Reach – Connecting participants from 5+ islands and across the U.S., uniting communities through heritage.
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Elevate the Samoan Heritage Festival – Showcasing a year’s work with music, dance, sports, workshops, and cultural exhibits.
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Strengthen Volunteer Efforts – Supporting 100+ volunteers and 10+ workshops monthly to preserve and share our culture.
Partner with us to preserve, educate, and celebrate Samoan heritage. Together, we build a lasting legacy!
Why We Do It
Despite Utah’s growing Pacific Islander population, Samoan culture lacks formal representation and resources. Many youth and families struggle with cultural identity, limited access to arts education, and economic hardships. We bridge this gap by offering a safe space to learn, celebrate, and strengthen connections to heritage.
We believe in the power of culture to unite, empower, and uplift communities. Our mission is to create lasting impact by fostering cultural pride, leadership, and community service—ensuring that traditions are passed down for generations.
Who We Are
Alofa Fa’aSamoa is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and educating communities about Samoan culture while supporting broader Polynesian, Native American, Asian, and Black communities in Utah. We serve as a cultural bridge, empowering youth, families, and individuals through education, community service, and cultural arts.
Our roots trace back to Flag Day in the 1990s, where we played a vital role in organizing cultural celebrations. In 1997, we became official organizers before the event ended in 2001. Recognizing the void left behind, we founded Alofa Fa’aSamoa in 2018 to revive, strengthen, and sustain our heritage for future generations.
Pasitale Lupeamanu
Retired US Marine & Army veteran with 24 years of service, dedicated to community development, education, and cultural preservation.
Merine Vida Hafoka
Educator, community leader, and operator of Malialole. She has served in schools and organizations like Utah Food Bank and Shriners Hospital, earning Utah Business Living Color recognition.
Hank Faalogo
Community leader with experience in faith, business, and youth sports with focus on Volleyball, dedicated to strengthening and inspiring local communities.
Semisi Nusilla
Born in American Samoa, Semisi served 20 years in the US Army and volunteered 17+ years with the IRS for free tax preparation. He is ideally suited to lead grants at Alofa Fa'aSamoa.
Taumailelei Itula
Safety specialist and community advocate with 16+ years of experience. He has volunteered with the Salt Lake Rescue Mission and helps ensure a secure and welcoming Heritage Festival.
Maria Lupeamanu
18 years of experience in sales and customer service. She manages vendors, recordkeeping, grants, and secretarial duties for Alofa Fa'aSamoa.
Haviar Hafoka
Oversees entertainment and productions. A dedicated community advocate, he leads the youth council, workshops, and educational programs, contributing countless service hours.
Nichol Bartell
Focuses on connecting communities and organizations through networking and marketing. She actively serves youth, rugby, and other groups, fostering growth and creating impactful opportunities.
WHAT We Do
What Sets Us Apart
Our key programs include:
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Youth Cultural Education – Siva Samoa workshops, history, and leadership training & Youth Council
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Community Outreach – Over 500+ service hours annually, providing meals, mentorship, and resources
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Cultural Festivals & Events – Hosting Samoan Heritage Festival, sports tournaments, and arts workshops
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Collaboration & Advocacy – Partnering with schools and organizations to preserve indigenous and Pacific Island cultures
We provide cultural education, leadership programs, and community service opportunities, filling a critical gap as the only Samoan organization in Utah that actively supports and collaborates with diverse cultural organizations, schools, and communities.