This week we celebrate Samoan Language Week, which provides another opportunity to reflect on the purpose of awareness weeks more broadly. At a recent assembly, I spoke with students about how awareness weeks invite us to stop, even briefly, in our increasingly busy and distracted world, and reflect more deeply on people, cultures, experiences, and issues that we may otherwise overlook.
This year’s Samoan Language Week theme is “‘E afua mai i mauga tetele manuia o le nu’u” — “From the high mountains come the blessings of the village.” The theme reminds us that our strengths, opportunities, and successes come from the foundations laid by those who have gone before us and from the communities that support us.
As I reflected on this year’s theme, I was reminded of words shared by our Pasifika student leader, Maria Vagana, at the Carmel and Rosmini Fiafia Night earlier this year:
“I am a proud daughter, the youngest of five, raised by Samoan parents whose parents made the huge journey from Samoa to Aotearoa chasing the dream of a better life. Because of them, I am privileged enough to be able to stand here. Because of their courage, I get to learn, to lead, to perform, and to represent us all with pride.”
She later reflected:
“What we carry here is history. What we bring to this stage is legacy. Our performance is not just movement; it is a connection to our ancestors, our culture, and everything our families worked hard to give us.”
Maria’s words beautifully capture the essence of this year’s theme. Every student who walks through our gates carries with them a story, a culture, aspirations, and the sacrifices of those who came before them.
The values reflected in this year’s Samoan Language Week theme align closely with our Mercy values of Service (Āwhinatanga), Respect (Whakaute), Justice (Tika), Care (Manaakitanga), and Courage (Māia). Like the village described in the theme, our school flourishes when we work together, support one another, and recognise that every person has a role to play in the wellbeing and success of the community.
When we acknowledge and celebrate the languages and cultures represented within our school, we demonstrate respect for the richness of our diverse community. When every student feels seen, heard, and valued, we show care. When we advocate for belonging and equity, we live out justice. When we step beyond our comfort zones to learn from one another and embrace new perspectives, we act with courage. And when we use our gifts to support others, we provide service.
Catherine McAuley encouraged her sisters to “be shining lamps, giving light to all around you.” Her words continue to challenge us to use our gifts in service of others and to contribute positively to the communities of which we are a part. Whether through acts of kindness, cultural celebration, leadership, advocacy, or daily contributions to school life, each of us has the opportunity to be that light for others.
As we move through the remainder of the term, may we draw strength from our shared values, celebrate the diversity that enriches our community, and continue to support one another so that the blessings of our collective efforts benefit all.
