Family values set Samoa apart

By Deidre Fanene 02 June 2017, 12:00AM

The celebration of Samoa’s independence is an occasion to behold.

It might be a norm for us locals whenever we celebrate but to a foreigner in this country, the rainbow of colours on Beach Road is something else.

Naomi Briggs and Daniella Berko who are originally from South Africa but residing in Australia say they will not forget the moment in a hurry.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer, their faces lit up when asked for their thoughts of Samoa as well as the celebration.

“Oh my goodness this is amazing,” said Ms. Berko.

“I’m here until November with my daughter and I loved it very much. Especially the people, Samoa has such beautiful and friendly people and to be honest we don’t really get this at home.

“People are always working and they just stick to themselves but here you walk on the streets and you have people saying hello and giving you the biggest smile ever that will just brighten up you day.”

Ms. Briggs echoed Ms. Berko’s thoughts.

“The people are so welcoming and lovely,” she said.

 “They really make us feel at home and they want us to be part of the celebration so that we can feel that we are Samoan ourselves.”

Away from the marches, one of the best things about independence is the food.

 “I have to say it’s the palusami,” said Ms. Briggs.

“I mean before it’s cooked it looks so hard but when it comes out of the umu oh my goodness it’s just delicious.

“The way it is made is just so good and clean as well so I really enjoy it. Hopefully by the time I go back home I will be able to learn how to make it so that my family can have a taste of the Samoan food.”

And what makes Samoa unique?

“Samoa is unique because the people welcoming and warm in nature,” said Ms. Berko.

 “The atmosphere is very peaceful and relaxed.

“In South Africa, we are family oriented and so it’s nice to see that Samoa especially when a family has a member who is at the hospital, they all come together and support each other and that’s beautiful.”

Both are keen to share their Samoa experiences to the world.

“I am trying to bring my family here so that they can experience what I am bragging about to them every time we talk on the phone.

“And when I go back I will definitely be coming back with my husband not as a student but as a tourist.”

By Deidre Fanene 02 June 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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