Suni's Siva Afi Journey: From Aotearoa through the Pacific

Talofa lava everyone,

My name is Suni, and I’m on a journey to grow and develop as a Siva Afi warrior and role model. I’ve been given the opportunity to compete in international competitions, where I can learn from other talented warriors, strengthen my skills, and deepen my knowledge of this art form that I’m so passionate about.
Everything I learn, I bring back home to share with my community through workshops and private tuition. I’m committed to passing on my knowledge and helping others grow, especially our tamariki who are wanting to connect with their culture and identity.

I’m 17 years old from Aotearoa, of Samoan descent from the villages of Fusi Safata and Satupa‘itea.
I’ve been blessed to be surrounded by an amazing support network — my parents, family, friends, and my team, Tahimana Fire Warriors. 

I’ve also been guided by incredible mentors: 

• Sopi Jensen
• Mani Sumeo
• Amo Ieriko
• Popea Lautala
• Along with the wider Siva Afi community. 

I am truly grateful for my nu’u, my village, who continue to support, guide, and raise me. Their strength, love, and belief in me are what drive me to keep pushing forward.

I’m reaching out for support to help make this journey possible. I am aiming to compete at the World Fire Knife Competition in Hawai‘i in May, Toa o le  Afi– Pati Levasa International Competition in Brisbane in September, and a Siva Afi Competition in Tahiti in November.

All funds raised will go 100% towards my flights and accommodation for these competitions.
 

This campaign is supported by Boosted match funding, which means every dollar donated will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $3,000. For example, if you donate $20, it instantly becomes $40 towards my journey.
Any support, big or small, would mean the world to me and my journey.
 

Fa’afetai tele lava for your love and support 🤍

This project is about more than competition—it is about purpose, culture, and legacy.

I am on a journey to grow as a Siva Afi warrior and role model, traveling Internationally  to compete, learn, and stand alongside some of the best in the world. These experiences will challenge me, strengthen my skills, and deepen my understanding of Siva Afi as both an art form and a cultural expression.
But this journey is not just for me.

Everything I learn will be brought back home to my community. Through workshops and private tuition, I will pass on my knowledge to others—especially our tamariki—so they can connect with their culture, build confidence, and find pride in who they are.
I carry not only my own dreams, but the hopes of my village, my mentors, and my people. My goal is to pave the way for the next generation, to inspire others to rise, and to keep our culture strong and alive.

This opportunity will help me achieve my goals while gaining valuable international experience in Siva Afi. It will strengthen my skills, confidence, and resilience, helping me grow as both a performer and a young leader.
I carry the values of fa’aaloalo (respect), lototele (courage), and tautua (service) in everything I do. I strive to be a positive role model in my community by encouraging others to follow their dreams while embracing and strengthening their cultural identity. Through teaching and sharing what I’ve learned, I aim to uplift others and strengthen our cultural connections.

This support will not only help me on my journey but will also allow me to give back to my community through service, leadership, and the impact I hope to make for future generations. As the saying goes “O le ala i le pule o le tautua.” — the path to leadership is through service.