Last month, Creative Pacific Week made its mark in Utah, wrapping up an exciting series of events at the end of September. The festivities began with a Cultural and Industry Workshop held at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem. Attendees had the opportunity to immerse themselves in a day filled with discussions and presentations that celebrated our rich cultures and highlighted diverse creative industries.
“It’s a journey that requires effort to fully immerse yourself, understand what you’re speaking about, and truly know who you are. You have to walk the walk and talk the talk.”
– SIA TONGA
The workshop featured an impressive lineup of keynote speakers and panelists, including our reigning Miss Pacific Islands and former Miss Samoa 2023, Fuatino Moemoana Schwenke. Other notable presenters included Maryjane McKibbin Schwenke, Fred Schwenke, Leone Sa’aga, Alvin S. Cabrinha Jr., Renee Cabrinha, Janae Pettit, Elizabeth Omeri, Phylesha Brown-Acton, Bale Tuisavura, Bo Afeaki Inukihaangana, Lizette Damman, Telesia Tonga, Bronson Vea, Walter Tonga, Veronica Pome’e, Heggy Gonzalez, Gabriel Mataitusi, Wandid Korimbo, Faith Polamalu, Veronica Sagato-Mauga, and Tema Hunkin Laussen.
The panels sparked engaging conversations that resonated deeply with the Pacific Islander community, underscoring the importance of identity, cultural heritage, and knowing our roots. During the cultural panel, Telesia Tonga emphasized, “It’s a journey, there needs to be work done to be fully immersed and know what you are talking about and knowing who you are. Walk the walk, Talk the talk.” This sentiment was echoed by MaryJane McKibbin Schwenke, who passionately reminded the audience that siva (traditional dance) is not just for entertainment but a way to reconnect with our roots and educate our children on the history embedded within the lyrics and movements. Her words were met with applause and visible emotion from those in attendance.
The industry workshops, covering fields such as marketing and fashion, brought a fresh perspective, emphasizing that creativity is intrinsic to all of us. The speakers encouraged everyone to harness their creative potential, reminding us that Pacific Islanders have always been innovators across various domains.
In addition to the panels, the week featured various interactive workshops, such as Siva Samoa with the dynamic MaryJane McKibbin Schwenke, Siva Afi with Fred and Moemoana Schwenke, and traditional Kava ceremonies. These sessions were a hit, drawing a great turnout, particularly among the youth. I had the privilege of attending the Siva Afi workshop led by Fred and Moemoana. The room was buzzing with enthusiasm as participants eagerly soaked up the knowledge imparted by these masters. I witnessed a special moment when Moemoana personally guided a young boy, who was overjoyed to be learning the art of Siva Afi from someone he admired so much.
The Cultural and Industry Workshop at UVU was a perfect way to kick off Creative Pacific Week, offering a platform for community members to engage, learn, and celebrate together. Hats off to the event organizers, Le Malu Organization, and all those involved for making it a memorable experience!
Check out some snapshots from the event and enjoy our Fast Five interview with the beautiful mother-daughter duo: reigning Miss Pacific Islands and former Miss Samoa 2023, Fuatino Moemoana Safa’ato’a Schwenke, and her mother, former Miss Samoa and Miss South Pacific 1997-98, Maryjane Moe McKibbin Schwenke. Celebrating our community in such an inspiring way—it truly was a week to remember!
During the Creative Pacific Cultural and Industry Workshop, I had the privilege of speaking with and interviewing Moemoana and MaryJane. In our conversation, we delved into fun facts through a quick “Fast Five” segment, but we also explored deeper topics, gaining valuable insights and life lessons. Moemoana reminded us that “what you have, give; what you learn, share,” and emphasized that our talents are meaningless unless we share them with others. MaryJane spoke about the importance of broadening our horizons by learning about other people’s cultures, communities, and ways of life, which ultimately fosters harmony in society.
It was truly an honor to hear from these incredible women who embody and uplift our culture in everything they do. Their presence radiates love, respect, and the power of tautua (service). I hope this brief interview will inspire and resonate with others through their invaluable advice and perspectives. This dynamic mother-daughter duo continues to make a lasting impact, and their work will undoubtedly inspire countless people within our community and beyond!
