Newsletter - The Methodist Church of New Zealand

S E NNewsletter
T
J UNE
2012
KEEPI NG SI NOT I SAMO A T UPUL AG A T AL AVO U CO NNECT ED
2012 has been an amazing year with so many things happening, so many activities completed and others still in its planning stages. We are mindful that
we are halfway through this year, and already we are blessed to be a part and
parcel of the future of Sinoti Samoa. We continue to encourage our Tupulaga
Talavou to engage, involve and outdo yourselves in our Mission & Ministry –
no matter how small your contribution may be – it’s all for Him *PRAISE
HIM*
Past – what have we achieved since our last E-Newsletter?
LEADERSHIP TRAINING FOLLOW UP 2012
Another year of prepping and equipping our Ta’ita’i Tupulaga Talavou for the
year ahead – it’s never easy to do so. However, this year we were blessed with JUSTICE, PREVAIL, and
PURPOSE. We were able to hear from Abhishek Solomon (Youth Enabler – Auckland Synod), Careers New
Zealand (Government Agency) and Rev. Aso Samoa Saleupolu (Director, Pasifika Ministries, Mission Resourcing). Those in attendance were given an opportunity to hear the stories and journeys of those who have
come through different styles of leadership, and how they have overcome barriers. It was good to bring everything back to our journey within Sinoti Samoa and the trials that we face across the board, but note, we are not
alone!
We were blessed to gather with the Tupulaga Talavou of Manurewa, and were given a slice of their Poly Performances from 1996 (jokes!). We went through the Leadership Checklist, 5 Characteristics of Leadership,
Choices and Concerns, the Leadership Toolbox and the Vision & Mission of Tupulaga Talavou Ministry.
SINOTI SAMOA TUPULAGA TALAVOU EXPO – MASSEE
What started off as a simple idea about 3 years ago, became a reality on Saturday 19 th May 2012 – the very
first Sinoti Samoa Educational Expo was held at the Allan Brewster Recreational Centre in Papatoetoe. The
theme of the expo was: “Act today, succeed tomorrow: A pathway to success.” With over 300 people in attendance and about 20 different education providers/career pathways on display, this inaugural expo event was
deemed a definite success. Read a full report and view photos from the event later in this newsletter!
Present – what are we currently working on?
SINOTI 2012 – Fonotaga Tupulaga Talavou, Leadership Training Follow Up & Elections
We come to the final stages of the NYLO three-year term and that’s not bringing things to a stand still, rather
to put things on the table for discussion and deliberation. We hope that all our Tupulaga Talavou have sent
through their reports to our Communications Team (JOSHARONISE) together with those who have representPage 1 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
ed us over the past year. So prepare yourselves for our Fono, together with an exciting line up for Leadership
Training Follow up as well as our Suiga Tofi for the coming year. If you have any questions or queries, please let
us know!
SINOTI SAMOA TUPULAGA TALAVOU EXPO - LNISSEE
Plans are well under way for our last expo for 2012 to be held on Friday 13th July 2012 at Wesley Wellington.
A good line up of Stall Holders and Workshops are a part of the programme, plus you can go into the draw to
win a few spot prizes that we have on hand. Until then, pencil it into your diaries – this is where you will be
“Making Informed Decisions TODAY for a Brighter TOMORROW”.
Future – what does the future hold for Tupulaga Talavou of Sinoti Samoa?
At this point, the SKY is the limit… We don’t have any major projects in the line after our expos as NYLO’s 3
year tenure (CAN YOU BELIEVE IT’S NEARLY THE END ALREADY!?!?!) will end at Sinoti 2012 in Wellington. Therefore, we remind you that we DO have an Election Process and this is in our Tupulaga Talavou Sinoti booklets as well as the minutes that Communications Committee has emailed out to all Taitai. Take time to
look over this and submit your nominations for NYLO 2012 – 2014. This is YOUR opportunity to speak up/step
up/look forward to the future of Sinoti Samoa Tupulaga Talavou.
New Name for our E-Newstetter
Congratulations to Tonu Auva’a of Oratia for submitting the winning entry for our Newsletter Name
Competition. Tonu’s winning name is SENT which stands for Sinoti Electronic Newsletter for Tupulaga.
For submitting the winning entry Tonu has won a double movie pass!
Reminders!
 Please ensure that we have all Ta’ita’i Tupulaga Talavou contact details and these are CURRENT
 Suega Autalavou is mid-September – We encourage you all to HAVE A GO!
 Komiti Social Issues (KSI) are holding ROUND 2 of the FAMILY VIOLENCE Workshops around the country
so make sure you attend.
That’s all for now – over and under,
Filo Tu & Edna Te’o
National Youth Liaison Officers (NYLO)
Sinoti Samoa
Page 2 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
TATUPU FOU O LE VINE MONI
Hawkes Bay
What’s been Happening?
To God be the Glory for the great things he has
done! Our tupulaga had our first Friday night gath- Coming up our tupulga have a garage sale May 19
ering February 24 2012. On this night we were
2012 we will be fundraising towards our trip to Welblessed with a spiritual message, “What is Gods pur- lington for the Sinoti Samoa Expo in July.
pose for you?” We then came up with our new vision and mission statement for 2012. Our vision this
year is “Missionaries” - throughout our lives we tend
to do things for ourselves and take so many things
for granted and so we felt that this would be a great
challenge for us especially through our Christian
walk. Our mission statement is “It is better to give
than to receive.” This year we have been blessed
with five new youth members: Edna Crichton, LJ
Crichton, Usoali’i MacGregor Faioso, Vaiana MacGregor Faioso and Sieni Fa’afuata—welcome on
board guys!
In the Easter weekend our tupulaga had long days
and short nights, audition processes and ongoing rehearsals preparing for our Easter show in which we
worked alongside the Aufaipese and Autalavou. The
show was a great success and we thank God for giving us the patience and strength to get through this as
time management was a real challenge.
On Wednesday 25th April 2012 (Anzac Day) our
tupulaga held a “family day out” at the Flaxmere
park. This was a family fun filled day where parents
and their children were able to enjoy sports, activities and a shared picnic lunch. Later that evening we
went to Church to relax and watch a family movie,
holding popcorn in one hand and koko Samoa and
panikeke in the other lol.
Page 3 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
TATUPU FOU O LE VINE MONI
All the best with your studies...
Over the past years our tupulaga have been leaving Sunny
Hawkes Bay one by one to
pursue their future careers and
further their education. This
year we said goodbye to Miss
Lesa Young, who is currently
residing in that place...umm
what do they call it now? Oohh
yeah Supercity is it? Oh I mean Aukilani! Haha she
is studying at Sir George Seymour College and
hopes to strive towards a career in the Tourism Industry. Good Luck Lesa! We’re praying for you and
your studies.
We also have tupulaga who have decided that they
want further their education right here in beautiful
Hawkes Bay you know what they say, “Theres no
place like home!”
Irene Williams is studying towards a career in Social
Work at the Eastern Institution of Technology in Napier and Amani is studying towards a Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary School Teaching) also
at the Eastern Institution of Technology. Good luck
to you both.
Well Done! Congratulations!
SETU PIO
SILOMA FAIOSO
Setu Pio graduated December 15 2011 from
the NZ Police College in Wellington and is
now working in Hawkes Bay as a Disciplinary
Constable.
Siloma Faioso graduated December 2011 from
the New Zealand Cut Above Academy.
Purcell Sali passed with Distinction—New
Zealand Trinity College Guildhall Organ Exam
(Grade 8)
PURCELL SALI
Page 4 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
BRISBANE
PERESEPENE LUMANA’I
Hello one and all,
Greetings to everyone across the Synod!
If you ever have the chance to come and visit Brisbane, feel free to pop by and join us in worship every Sunday 1pm
at The Uniting Church of Australia- 8 Lee Road Darra 4066 Brisbane. We would love to see you!
I would like to introduce the Tupulagas at Darra- Peresepene
I’ve gone a little bit different with this newsletter and hopefully it will give you all some insight of each and every Tupulaga in Brisbane- Hope you all enjoy!
God Bless,
Setu Masina.
Name: Bathsheba Gloria Patisepa Salesa
Age: 18
Birth Stone: Sapphire
D.O.B: 09/09/1994
Gender: Girl/Female
Biography:
My Name is Bathsheba Gloria Patisepa Salesa and I am currently 17
years of age, I was born in Middle more Hospital, Otahuhu Auckland NZ.
I am currently studying at Glenala S.H.S and this will be my last year at
school. My goal/dreams are to be a hairdresser, photographer or professional rapper/singer. After school I want to head off to TAFE and study
hairdressing and become a hairdresser. My wish is to fulfil my dreams
and goals before I can start a family of my own in the upcoming future.
In my household, I live with my Mother (Vaitoelau Esau), Step Father
(Lavetala Mani) and my three younger siblings (Pea, Junior and Lousia) I
love devoting at least two hours of my time to play with them after school
and 30minutes to help them with their homework, In other words I enjoy
playing with the kids when ever I get home from school.
Name: Farani John Sale
D.O.B: 10/02/1994
Age: 18
Star sign: Aquarius
Hobbies: Volleyball and Dancing
Mum: Salilo Manumalo Sale
Dad: Farani Sale
Brothers: Sale Sale, Tupu Sale, Victor Sale
Sisters: Sovita Patolo and Dorothy Sua
Aunty: Kolopa Siatiu, Tofia Afoa, Siga Olagaga
Uncle: Savali
Goals/Dreams: To be the best hip hop dancer in Brisbane.
Page 5 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
My name is Jenny Lepapa Logo-Masina, I was born in Otahuhu on the 9th Oct 1992 and I am currently 19 years old.
I have been working as an receptionist for an accounting and insurance
company for 2 years.
I hate spiders, cockroaches and lizards. The way they crawl when
they’re insight just makes me shiver and gives me the Goosebumps.
I love food- Fish and chips and I love my Chocolate. I love fizzes and
juice also.
My ambition when I was little was to be a police officer but now growing up to know that they don’t get paid very well so that ambition died
and I turned to admin.
I love admin; I have completed Cert III in business admin and hope to
take up a business management course in the near future.
My goals in life are to be successful, work hard for a good future, learn
how to keep a good relationship with God and hopefully live life with
no regrets.
I’m thankful for the people in my life at the moment- God is Good! He
works in mysterious ways! The only way to solve a puzzle is from a
view above! Just like the Lord watches over me and protects me and
helps me like a puzzle if I’m ever lost, confused or uncertain. He will
never let me go through anything hard in life if he knew I couldn’t get
through it. I’m Blessed and grateful - God truly does amazing things!
Name: Sua’ava Lafaele
Age: 25
B’dae: 17/09/1986
Sex: Female
Star sign: Libra
Born: Middle more Hospital- New Zealand
Sisters: 2 Vaitasi Lafaele and Janice Lafaele
Brothers: 2 Paul Lafaele and Saumani Lafaele
Mother: Mua Lafaele
Father: Toleafoa
Dog: Suge
Address: Unit 31, 124 Chatswood Rd.
Hobbies: Rugby, Touch, Singing and Dancing
I LOVE HAIRDRESSING
Name: Victor Lafaele Siatiu Farani
Born: 13/07/1996- Auckland NZ
Age: 15
Star sign: Cancer
Goal: Find a job when I finish high school
Hobbies: Xbox 360, Singing and Rugby
Mum: Salilo Manumalo
Dad: Farani Sale
Brothers: Sale Sale, Tupu Sale and John Sale
Sisters: Vika Patolo and Dorothy Sua
Sale
Page 6 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
Name: Laula “Rudy” Time
D.O.B: 15TH July 1989
P.O.B: Auckland, NZ
Place of Residency: Inala Brisbane QLD
Studying: Cert 3 in Children’s Services
Parents: Lilo Noa and Lina Time
Church: Darra Methodist Church of NZ
Marital Status: Complicated like Setu lol
Enjoys: Movie marathons, chilling with my DIVAZ, long drives down the coast, vacuuming my
house, being a socialite, enjoying the Aussie outback and being around young children.
Pets: 1 Kitten name Puss Puss
Goal for this 2012: Get my drivers license and
drive around in a BMW.
Name: Setu Peter Logo Masina
D.O.B: 07/11/1984
Age: LEGAL
P.O.B: Auckland NZ
Place of Residency: Forest Lake Brisbane QLD
Hobbies: Zumba, climbing Mt Coo-tha, Eating,
Sleeping, Holidaying down the coast and giving
my parents migraines (or is it the other way
around) lol
Star sign: Scorpio
Status: Next question please
Employee: Sa & Birk Accountants
Church: The Samoan Darra Methodist Church of
NZ
Parents: Va’asili Enosa & Luaono Masina
Kids:????
Goals: To travel the world after I turn 30 and
settle down in the Greek Islands.
Inspirations: My Youth & Church!
Hotmail: [email protected] Drop me an
email
Page 7 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
Taeao Fou
Mangere Central
Talofa Lava Tupulaga Sinoti Samoa,
1 Chronicles 16:8 - Oh give thanks to the LORD, call upon His name; Make known His deeds among the peoples. Amen
Taeao Fou 2012 is running smoothly.
In 2011, Taeao Fou hosted a Christmas dinner to give thanks to our parents for their wonderful support to our
youth. On the night our parents were told not to come in a ie faikaga but to dress up as if their going to a ball.
The theme on the night was "Kings and Queens." Our parents and guests enjoyed a night of fun, dancing, karaoke and a 5 star buffet cooked by our wonderful professional chef Lani Teofilo and her team of experts (Taeao
Fou).
Also in 2011 we did a youth rally where we invited tupulaga from Otara (Otara Saints), Papatoetoe (Pameko),
Manurewa and also our brother and sisters from Panmure. Our youth theme on this night was " Mighty things
come in small packages", this night was great as we were blessed by our sisters Edna Te'o, Lise Malaeimi who
were there to support our night. Again we thank you both for coming as we love that you gave us your support.
Fa'afetai lava.
But NOW 2012 is here and we have already kicked this year off with a great start.
Our new Youth Leader: Anthony To'oto'o and our Failautusi: Fuatino Mareko.
2012 started off with the Benefit Concert which was to help fundraise for the Tupulaga Educational Expo held in
Auckland. With performances from youths from Manukau and Aukilani Itumalo, this night was a blast! Wonderful
performances from all youths and especially from the biggest youth in Sinioti Samoa, TAEAO FOU hahaha. But
overall this was great and hyped night, in the upcoming future we hope to have another concert because it
brings all youths together for a great cause.
We have random get togethers at our head quaters also known as Rev Utumauu's Crib. Where we do youth
bondings and youth practices for any upcoming events. Also to chill out and eat all of Utumaau's food lol. We
participate in helping out our Mafutaga Tamaitai with their fair fundrasing towards there charity. We also particpated in the Easter Sunday service, Mothers Day service and now getting ready for the Manukau Itumalo
youth rally which will be hosted by our brothers and sisters from PAMEKO.
With all this, we fully support our autalavou events and bible studys we get on Friday nights during fonotatalo.
Our youth are planning a trip to Samoa early 2013 for a holiday but especially to re-discover our roots by learning and discovering more about Samoa and its culture. This is a learning curve to bring our Samoan culture
back into our youth. Also we are planning to do our Christian mission while we are there by visiting the local
hospital and give them gifts and Christian prayers to give them hope to a new year. 2012 for Taeao Fou have a
lot to plan for the new future and we are all in God's hands.
Our youth may be small as everybody knows but within our small group we have very big hearts to help
our church to move forward as one.
So Everthing is good in God's name and we as a group hope to take his name to the next step.
So from Taeao Fou: Ia manuia fonotaga tupulaga 2012 ae maise le sinoti aua le lumanai. Ia tatou galulue
fa'atasi aua le galuega o le atua ma ia faamanuia e le atua tupulaga taitasi, ma ia faamanuia e le atua ia NYLO
aua la galuega matagofie ua laua faia mo tatou tupulaga ae maise o taitai fou o le a filifilia mo lenei tausaga. Ia
alofa le Atua ia faatasi ma olua aua le lumani mo tatou tupulaga a le sinoti.
O lena se repoti mai le tupulaga magele tutotonu. Alofaga mo outou uma mai Taeao Fou.
Sainia,
Youth Leader: Anthony To'oto'o, Failautusi: Fuatino Mareko, TAEAO FOU ;)
Page 8 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
Our youth currently have 13 registered and active members that participate in our youth events. As mentioned
before our youth leaders are Tonu Auva’a and Sefuluai
Neru. Majority of our youth are young parents so it’s great
to see that although some of us may have children, we
are still young at heart and want to continue Gods work
through our youth ministry.
We are encouraged to have youth once a fortnight. Our
youth is at our ta’ita’i’s house. Our youth nights are filled
of ice breakers, team building exercises, and bible exercises as well. One exercise we done was put a rap or
song together to detail the story of David and Goliath, it
was split between the Gents and the Ladies, The Gents
came up with a rap – This uncovered some hidden talents
and some SCRIBES in the youth lol. The Ladies did a remix to the tune of “the Brady Bunch” this was interesting
and were the winners in this competition.
Our youth are quite involved in our church; we have
worked with our Church leader and regional leader to ensure that we lead a church service at least once every 2
months. This is a great opportunity for our youth to build
confidence in themselves to take a lead in our worship. It
also is an encouragement to give our youth a challenge to
speak in their mother tongue. In our youth services, we
delegate 4 important roles:
 Ta’ita’i (who will also prepare a small sermon/lauga)
 Tatalo (Someone to lead the prayer, preferably in Samoan)
 X2 Bible reading (Both in English and in Samoan)
 X2 Offering
Our youth was also involved in our regional Autalavou
games during the Xmas break. They all enjoyed the interPage 9 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
actions with other churches. It was great to see that all of
our youth were quite involved and dedicated themselves
to this 3 day event. One of our youth members Cesnah
Ata achieved 1st= Most wickets. Our boys Kilikiti team
also performed so well that they defeated the 2011
champs Ponsonby, in their 2nd meeting during the round
robin, unfortunately time was against us and finals for
the Kilikiti could not be completed this year. We very
much look forward to the next regional games, to defend
our A & B volleyball trophies
Our youth has been blessed with a grant from our youth
council to assist in some of the work that we want to
achieve. God willing we are looking to having a camp
early 2013, possibly in Rotorua.
During the Easter break we ran one of our main fundraisers which was an Easter Hamper. Although there
were many tickets that were sold outside our church, the
2 winners were still within our church, congrats to Dora
Ata for winning our 1st prize and Janice Auva’a for the
2nd.
Our youth will now continue to have our get together
every fortnight. We are now in preparations for our regional youth rally in June and also our EXPO in May.
Blessings:
Page 10 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
TUPULAGA PETONE
E fa’ane’ene’eina pea le alofa ma le agalelei o le Atua Soifua, ona lona alofa ma lona agalelei, ua mafai ai ona auala atu se
ripoti pu’upu’u mai Tupulaga Talavou a Petone. First of all I would like to give thanks to the Lord for giving me this opportunity to lead such an amazing group of Tupulaga here in Petone. 2012 has been, and is going to be an exciting year for all of
us!
We have 30 Tupulaga in our mafutaga this year, including the 4 of us on the committee:
Ta’ita’i:
Sui Ta’ita’i:
Teutupe:
Sila Pene
Mafiti Mata’afa
Usugafono Fepulea’i & Misimatoka Fa’alogo.
Our programme since July 2011 has included: Goal Setting and Personal Evaluation, Sports, Zumba, Movie Nights, Community Outreach, Guest Speakers, Bible Study and learning the Road Code. So far, a major goal that we have already achieved
was painting our Youth Hall which was a combined effort, and great fun! We plan our events and activities at the beginning
of each year, and at the end we reflect on what went well, and what hasn’t, and build from there.
Our focus for this year is based around Personal Growth with Goal Setting, Bible studies, Community Outreach and learning
the Road Code. We aim to help each of our tupulaga in bettering themselves in at least one area of their lives and assisting
them to achieve their goals. We also want to unite our Tupulaga – young and old – to form a stronger environment for our
youth to grow, in mind, body and spirit.
We have been happy to send our leaders to many of the NYLO Programmes since 2011, especially Leadership Training over
the past three years. Our Ta’ita’i have brought back numerous bits of information and shared this with our wider Ekalesia.
We are excited for the Educational Expo’s in Auckland and Wellington, and hope that there will be something there to cater
for everyone’s needs. But at the end of the day, it is another milestone that we have achieved since our last Sinoti Samoa
gathering.
Recommendations & Suggested Decisions will be voiced by our
Sui Tupulaga.
I look forward to sharing more awesome stories from Petone Tupulaga at the end of the year.
God bless
Sila Pene
Ta’ita’i Tupulaga Petone
Page 11 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
La’asaga
NEW PLYMOUTH, TARANAKI
Talofa Tupulaga,
Greetings and welcome to another addition of our Tupulaga e-newsletter and from
your brothers and sisters of La’asaga. All praise and glory to our Heavenly Father
for welcoming us with another brand new year and for the many exciting blessings
He has in store for us
Whats been happening…
Here are a few things La’asaga has been up to since our last e-newsletter edition:
Varsity student on a mission….
Since the middle of 2011 one of our varsity students Carinnya Feaunati took on the
mission to apply as a NZ Leprosy Mission advocate. You may remember from our
last update Carinnya and her brother Ale took on the challenge and successfully
completed the Taranaki Half-marathon as a part of Carinnya’s application to travel
Nepal in January 2012.
Carinnya was successful in her application and was given the awesome opportunity to travel to Nepal and carry out mission
work alongside other advocates of Leprosy Mission NZ. We congratulate Carinnya on her awesome success and hope this
encourages other tupulaga within our Sinoti to look at taking on such opportunities
Clean Up NZ
La’asaga took part in the national Clean UP NZ week during the later months of 2011 and walked the streets of New Plymouth picking up litter and doing their part to keep NZ tidy.
Food Bank Run
La’asaga took on the chance to participate in the annual food bank run. It was great to have a full truck load of tupulaga
going out and collecting food for the homeless and in need residents of New Plymouth and being able to meet the local
communities.
Leadership Training 2012- “Let Justice Prevail”
La’asaga was fortunate to send another rep to the annual Tupulaga Talavou Leadership Training Weekend in 2012. With a
theme of “Let Justice Prevail” this was a great weekend to advance leadership skills, fellowship with other leaders of tupulaga and join as one in our faith in Jesus Christ. We take this opportunity to thank NYLO (Edna and Filo), for all of your
time and effort put into holding this event and we pray that you are truly blessed for all the works you do for our Sinoti tupulaga.
Autalavou Easter Camp
Members of La’asaga were fortunate to be a part of our Autalavou Easter camp 2012. This was a time of fellowship for us
not only as a tupulaga but with our autalavou and elder church members. We were fortunate to have a guest speaker who
came and spoke to us about empowering one another in our faith journeys and to always think “You and God are the majority”.
What’s coming up?
Fundraising
La’asaga are continuing to fundraise having sausage sizzles, car washes, movie nights, etc planned for the coming months
to contribute to our trip to the Gold Coast.
Page 12 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
Annual Sinoti Samoa Fonotaga and Lower North Island Sinoti Samoa Educational Expo 2012
La’asaga plan to send representatives to the annual Sinoti Samoa Fonotaga as well as attend a very first Educational Expo
for our tupulaga talavou of Sinoti Samoa. With a theme “Making informed decisions today for a better tomorrow” we hope
tupulaga will be encouraged and equipped to make great choices for their future.
40 hour Famine, Clean Up NZ and Food Bank Run
In 2012 La’asaga hope to participate once again in the annual 40hour Famine, Clean up NZ week and the local New Plymouth Food Bank Run.
That’s all from La’asaga for now , we take this time to thank our current NYLO for all of their time, plans and events they
have done for our tupulaga talavou as a whole. May you both be truly blessed for all of your works and all the best for the
future.
We look forward to seeing you all at annual Sinoti Samoa Fonotaga 2012 and blessings as you continue your faith-fuelled
journey
One Heart: One Soul
Your Brothers and Sisters of La’asaga
Page 13 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
Gisborne Wesley Methodist Samoan Parish
Gisborne Tupulaga Report
Talofa Lava and greetings to you all from the sunny side of Gisborne!! Praise God, for his everlasting love as
he continues to provide opportunities for us to maintain contact with our brothers and sisters in christ. We
look forward to hearing how everyone is. Our report will be a nice and short read for you all.
Over the years, our youth group numbers have decreased due primarily to employment opportunities for
their families out of Gisborne. Currently we have five members, four males and one female ranging between
the ages of 20 - 35. Our current president for the youth group is Filemu Key, and where necessary the rest of
us share other responsibilities. Although we are a small group, our faith is strong and we support the mission
of our church.
In March 2012 our youth group were invited to play as a band for the wedding of one of our church members.
With the support of our families, this outcome was successful, and the bride and groom were pleased with
our efforts. Music continues to be an avenue by which we are able to make connections with others.
We have prayer meetings that take place on Sunday evenings. These meetings offer the youth group an opportunity to lead worship through song and to facilitate the order of our service.
We have also received an invite to perform at a fundraiser for a children's group which will occur in June
2012. This will be a great opportunity for our members to use their talents to support a worthwhile event
and to also build those relationships with members of the Gisborne community.
Our youth group plays a huge supporting role within our church as we are a small congregation, however we
have set ourselves one goal and that is to be more pro-active within the wider Gisborne community. The Samoan population is a minority within the Gisborne district, yet we are aware that there are pacific families
coming to live here. It is our hope that we can reach out to those pacific youth members who may desire ongoing links with their culture and christian beliefs.
To finish we would like to say a huge thank you to our NYLO representatives, for your hard work and committment to your roles. Thank you for keeping us updated and for being the voice of our generation. We
wish you all the best for your
future endeavours. May God
continue to guide over you and
all our youth members within
the Methodist Church. Keep
the faith and remember "I can
do all things through Christ
who strengthens
me" (Philippians 4 v 13).
Sili Ieti
(Gizzy Youth Rep)
Page 14 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
MANUKAU AUKILANI SINOTI SAMOA
EDUCATIONAL EXPO!!
Youth members from across the Sinoti Samoa Auckland and Manukau districts were out in force at the Allan Brewster recreation centre in Papatoetoe which was abuzz resembling a marketplace, only
this one was selling tickets bound for knowledge…for free. While
the youth are always the main targets for these types of expos, older
and younger people alike were also encouraged to attend and take
advantage of all the valuable information available.
The day began with some words of encouragement and of course an
opening prayer from the Vice President of the Methodist Church of
New Zealand – Mrs Olive Tanielu. The display/stalls area was then
opened, with three different workshops also being run throughout
the day by Careers NZ, the Inland Revenue Department and BEST
Pacific Institute of Education. Mangere Labour MP Sua William
Sio also popped in to share some words of encouragement with all
present.
Some of the organisation/stall holders present included AIS St
Helens, Auckland Hotel & Chefs Training school, AUT, BEST Pacific Institute of Education, Cut Above Academy, University of
Auckland, NZ Fire Services, Otago University and Waikato University just to name a few.
To encourage all attendees to visit every stall and attend each workshop, attendees were required to carry with them a “stamp passport”
which was to be stamped by each stall holder/workshop presenter at
each visit. A fully stamped passport was then eligible for entry into
a prize draw which was drawn at the end of the day. Lumepa
Leausa of Panmure Youth won the FIRST PRIZE (a 16GB
WiFi+3G Samsung Galaxy Tablet, 2degrees Sim data pack with
100MB preloaded, $20 2degrees top up and a 2012 expo t-shirt)
with consolation prizes also won by three other youths in attendance.
In true Samoan style, food was also provided at this expo, with various Mafutaga Tamaitai (Womens Fellowship Groups) from within
the Sinoti Samoa Auckland and Manukau Itumalo (Districts) generously catering morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.
One of the highlights of this expo was that it was organised entirely
by Sinoti Samoa youth – and at the forefront were the very youthful
organising committee aka the MASSEE (Manukau & Aukilani Sinoti Samoa Educational Expo) Project Committee made up of Filo
Tu, Edna Te'o, Siauala Nili, Tupu Vatau, Viliamu Vaisagote, Luana
Meki, Alafia Isaia, Talatonu Auva'a, Lautalie Aumua, Lise Oloi,
Page 15 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
Sione Oloi, Mele Vatau and Manu Palelei.
A HUGE thank you to The Methodist Church of NZ PAC distribution group, Sinoti Samoa and Careers NZ for their financial support and encouragement of Sinoti Samoa Youth Ministry and of course thank you to all who came along to listen,
learn and support.
Of course the real success of such an expo is perhaps more accurately measured by the future successes of our people – let us
pray that hard work, faith and God’s grace will continue to help
water the seeds that were planted during this educational expo
extravaganza!
Page 16 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
POSTER/INFO RE EXPO in wgtn
SINOTI 2012 etc
Page 17 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
OUR
CHAMPIONS
“That some achieve great success, is proof to all that others can achieve
it as well” Abraham Lincoln, 1809-1865
There’s a saying that goes like this…”SUCCESS BREEDS SUCCESS”
It is so important that we celebrate our successes so that over time we may continue to develop and build a winning and successful “culture” within our Sinoti Samoa Tupulaga Talavou, our families and ultimately across our
wider Samoan communities.
It’s great to hear of all the success stories about tupulaga within our Sinoti family, whether big or small—it
doesn't really matter—anything done to the best of your ability, in the name of Jesus, can be deemed a success
and is pleasing to God.
1 Corinthians 10:31
So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God
Colossians 3:17
And whatever you do, whether in deed or word, do it all in the name of Jesus, giving thanks through him to
God the Father.
There are many success stories that we hear about and others that we don't - we encourage you all to be proud of
them all and to not be afraid to share them with our Sinoti family. Your story just might encourage someone else
to work harder in the classroom, train harder in the gym, play harder on the sports field, practice the piano more ,
write more songs, perform better on stage, work harder for that promotion at work, sing better in the choir, study
the Bible more etc...I think you get the idea!
The impact of your success can extend much further beyond you and your immediate family—it could impact on
someone at the other end of the country, in this way we help each other become better or “sharper” and so becomes true the verse that says:
As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another
Proverbs 27:17
Please let us know about your stories—if you’re out doing volunteer work in the community, if you’ve just finished an apprenticeship to become a builder or a plumber, if you’ve been selected to represent your school, province or NZ in a sport, if you’re playing music in a band, if you’ve been selected to audition for a stage musical, or
maybe you’ve been selected to travel to visit the NASA space centre in Houston, Texas! We want to know about
it!
The following pages profile a few of your fellow Tupulaga brothers and sisters and their success stories—we pray
that they will inspire you and encourage you to work hard in whatever you set your mind to—and that in due
course you too will taste success and ultimately bring glory to God!
God bless.
Page 18 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
Carrinya Feaunati
NEW PLYMOUTH
E faasaga a'e o'u mata i mauga, e oo mai ai lo'u
fesoasoani. O lo'u fesoasoani mai le Alii lea, o le na
faia le lagi atoa ma lalolagi. – Salamo 121
Surrounded by the Himalayan Mountains with a
breath-taking view of Mt Everest in my vision, this
verse recited to me by my Reverend Limu Isaia at my
farewell lotu was heavy on my mind on my travels in
Nepal.
In February of this year I was blessed with the opportunity to travel as a NZ Leprosy Mission Youth Ambassador to Kathmandu, Nepal to see the grace of
God at work in the mission at the Anandaban Leprosy Hospital and in the remote villages. Watching reconstructive surgery, visiting village projects, participating in traditional bible study and experiencing the
life of a leprosy affected person in a third world
country really enabled a great sense of appreciation
for the life we have been blessed with here in New
Zealand. Nothing could have prepared me for the
overwhelming presence of God in the hearts of the
Nepalese people I met on my travels. The adversity
that these leprosy patients were fighting each day
spoke of real Hope and Faith that is missing in our
much more fortunate society today.
Important to the experiences in Nepal was the motivation that it gave me to seek mission work whether
it is during my role as an Ambassador for 2012 or
even after, in our own communities. The trip to Nepal really opened my mind and heart not only to the
world but to my own spiritual walk
with God. I am so thankful to God,
my church and the wider community for igniting this journey I am
currently on with Leprosy Mission
New Zealand and I pray for the
strength to continue raising awareness and funds this year to help the
mission work that is happening in
Nepal.
Blessings
Carinnya
Page 19 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
Siauala Nili
OTARA
Siauala Nili aka “GiantKilla” of the St Pauls Methodist Church Otara was awarded the prestigious Phil Fuemana
Most Promising Pacific Artist Award at the 2012 Pacific Music Awards on the 31st May.
Having previously been one half of the hip hop duo “Crossbreed”, Giantkilla is currently flying solo and showing
no signs of turbulence. GiantKilla, who hails from the Groovehouse Records Family, has recently released a couple of popular singles “Just be Cool” and “Ladybug” that are receiving significant airtime on national radio. He
has also been working hard on a debut album which will very soon be on display at all good record stores
throughout the land.
When Siauala is not in the studio fine tuning his musical tracks, on location shooting music videos or performing
live at various events, he is still very actively involved in his church, often seen conducting the choir or helping
lead the Otara Saints Youth group. Siauala has also been a key member of joint Manukau / Aukilani Itumalo tupulaga talavou ventures such as the recent Aukilani/Manukau Education Expo and Fundraising Concert. He is also
the current Sinoti Samoa Tupulaga Talavou representative for the annual Methodist Church of New Zealand Conference.
At the tender age of 21, Siauala (who is the youngest son of Fiu Poasa and Sauileone Nili), has seized opportunities placed in front of him by God – with this latest music award being a further reminder of God’s blessing upon
his life. May God continue to give Siauala / GiantKilla the ability to slay many more giants along his journey and
may the famous words of another “GiantKilla” remain engrained in us all when faced with challenges in life "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty…” 1 Samuel 17:45.
Congratulations Siauala!
Page 20 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
Toaga Alefosio
UELIGITONE (Wesley)
Talofa Lava, my name is Toaga Christina Alefosio currently studying at the University of Auckland completing a Bachelor of Arts
Honours in Development Studies. I graduated May this year from
Victoria University of Wellington with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Development Studies, Pacific Studies and Samoan Studies.
Studying at a tertiary level was a long term goal I had witnessing
many family members graduate themselves. Now, that I have
achieved this, my next goal is to study my Masters and take my
studies even further.
I studied in the Development field as it was one of my passions in
life to make this world a better place. Development Studies within the Pacific was the focus of my interest in particularly how
tourism has changed ideas about the land in Samoa and its effects
on our culture and value of land. This is the research topic for the
thesis that I am working on this year which I intend to carry
through to my Masters research.
Studying was not easy, especially trying to manage my time with
my other commitments such as church, youth and family. These
factors are my priorities but when I could not be present at these
activities due to studies I did feel the sense of guilt as I have been
brought up to put family first right after God. My life eventually
evolved around University neglecting everything else that was
important to me. But, I am thankful for my family, for understanding when I could not fulfil my duties at home, my church
family for upholding my spiritual wellbeing but most importantly
my parents for believing in me.
My parents (Malie Mataia Alefosio & Matai’a Lome Alefosio)
and family are my inspiration. Their struggles in the past in order
for us to gain an education, better lifestyle and opportunities became my motive to aim high. My parents would constantly remind us to do well in school, to always complete set tasks fully
and not only cover the surface. At times it was annoying to hear
the same words of encouragement repeated every morning but
without their words of encouragement I wouldn’t have achieved
this goal today. Although it is my name on that degree, but that
name represents my parents, family, Saleaula (village) and everyone who supported me.
Graduating was such a humbling feeling. All the hard work and
sacrifice was finally paid off. I am so thankful to God for this opportunity; E leai se mea e faigata I Le Atua. From this experience
I have learnt that there is no limit to learning and every challenge
has its own sacrifice. But it is the decisions made by the individual that reflects on their success.
Page 21 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
To the Tupulaga that are thinking of studying or are currently studying, keep at it! You can do it! E leai se
mea e faigata I Le Atua. Keep that connection with your spiritual side, the tasks ahead of you is never as
great as the power behind you.
I would like to acknowledge Rev Fatuatia and Suresa Tufuga for their love and support while I was studying at Victoria University. Thankyou for your prayers, your wise words and for feeding me spiritually. To
Seaga Toelupe, as my mentor you played a significant role in my education, thank you for keeping me in
line. To my youth group and church family, thank you for your prayers. To my uncles and aunties, Uncle
Leaula Peniamina and Aunty Niu Vai, Uncle Leaula Sililo and Aunty Sia Pio, Uncle Matai’a and Aunty
Olive Amani Tanielu, Aunty Tinei and Uncle Mika and to all my family, this achievement is dedicated to
you all. If I did not have a solid family who supported my studies and kept me in their prayers I wouldn’t
have achieved this milestone. I am so humbled.
Ia fa’amanuia pea Le Atua ia te outou uma.
Toaga
Page 22 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
Tavai & Chris Faasavalu (Dee-Licious Dance Crew)
MANUREWA
Brothers Tavai and Chris Faasavalu of Manurewa are part of the very popular Samoan dance crew known as
the Dee-licious Dance Crew. They have grown and gone from strength to strength over the last couple of
years performing at events all over New Zealand and having also stretched out to Australia and America
where they have shared the stage with the likes of Fiji and J-Boog.
With their unique mix of traditional Samoan and contemporary dance moves they cater for a wide audience.
Their use of popular pop music to accompany some of their routines also works wonders with the youth of
today— add in their comedic skits which they manage to incorporate seamlessly into their routines and you
have a complete Dee-licious performance!
Congratulations Tavai and Chris for representing so well your culture, family, church, Sinoti and most importantly God. Keep up the great work. We wish you continued success!
Page 23 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
Sharlene Malaeimi
MANUREWA
SPECIAL THANKS:
“E muamua lava ona ou si'i le vi'iga ma le fa'afetai i le Atua,
mo lona alofa ma lona agalelei ia te a'u i le tele o tausaga o
lo'u olaga. O le Atua lava na puipuia a'u i taimi faigata.”
FIRSTLY, i would like to GIVE PRAISE and THANKS to
our ALMIGHTY FATHER GOD for his love and guidance
He has bestowed upon me throughout this journey. He is the
reason why i have come this far in my life, with His hand
protecting and sheltering me through the best and the worst
obstacles, and with His love and countless blessings. My life
is in His hands :) !
SECONDLY, I would like to extend a special thank you to
my FAMILY: my parents, my siblings - beautiful sister,
handsome brothers, my supportive extended family, my
grandparents, my amazing Manurewa Methodist church family, most importantly my Manurewa Youth group and my
friends for always being there for me. I wouldn't have made
it this far without you all.
DEGREE:
I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Pacific Studies and Anthropology. Within the field of Pacific
Studies, I wanted a deeper understanding of not only our culture but all the cultural groups in the Pacific… [It] covers our
linguistics, history, traditions, customs, pre-colonial times,
several writings on the Pacific and the list goes on. Anthropology covers the study of human beings and it connected
very well with my major.
JOURNEY:
My journey has been such a rollercoaster. From starting off
as a Fine Arts (major) student, I was so sure that was my
calling in life. However, I was wrong! There were other opportunities and God led me to what I was destined to do. It
had taken me a while to settle into University and it is so different to Secondary School because the standards are higher
and so much more is expected of you. I had to adjust and
work independently and that was not easy at first, eventually
things became a lot easier and everything fell into place.
SACRIFICES:
Being able to balance and prioritise was an issue for me as I
am very passionate about my sports especially volleyball. It
was one of the things i had going for me while i was in High
school. It became a challenge being involved in so many
things, it was a very hard decision to let go of all the things i
loved to do. However, as the years went by, making these
sacrifices was the right choice.
Page 24 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
INSPIRATIONS:
My parents have been working so hard (day in and day out).
They are my motivators – they have been pushing me and my
siblings to build better careers for ourselves. Telling us that God
and education should always remain first in our lives. My siblings, my Manurewa Methodist Church family and my extended
family (aunties, uncles, cousins) and friends (all of them). Everyone has played a significant part in my life and has given me the
courage to keep striving, that the sky is the limit and to never
give in.
MESSAGE:
My message to our beautiful people would be, to AIM HIGH
and Pray every day. To never let your worst get you down, pick
yourself up and work twice as hard. You will always have endless battles in your journey, you will not always win, sometimes
you will lose. It is not about what is waiting at the top of the hill,
it is HOW you got there YOUR CLIMB, YOUR AMAZING
JOURNEY!
WHAT NOW?:
I am currently doing my Bachelor of Honours (Program) - Postgraduate Studies, where i am specialising in Pacific Studies and Pacific History.
FUTURE AMBITIONS:
I would like to continue my studies in the field of Education (Maybe a Postgraduate Degree/Diploma). My
dream career would be to Co-ordinate Pacific events not only in New Zealand but all over the world.
Blessings
Sharlene
Page 25 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
Filo Tu
PETONE
Recently our very own NYLO rep - Filo Tu of the Petone Wesley Methodist
Parish was selected to represent the Methodist Church of New Zealand at the
World Council of Churches (WCC) Stewards Programme in Crete, Greece!
After originally applying to the Methodist Church of NZ Mission & Ecumenical Committee, his application was endorsed for submission to the
World Council of Churches for their consideration along with over 250 other
applications from around the globe. Filo was one of 30 successful applicants
selected to attend this prestigious programme to be held in Crete, Greece in
August 2012.
So what is the World Council of Churches?
The Stewards Programme is a unique event that provides an opportunity for
participants to deepen their knowledge of the ecumenical movements, renew
their ecumenical commitment, and find inspiration for further work towards
the unity of the Church. It is composed of three phases: Ecumenical Learning Programme, Assisting in an international ecumenical event, Ecumenical Project planning.
Stewards programme and ecumenical leadership training seminar
The WCC brings together a regionally and confessionally diverse group of young people to participate in leadership training seminars, and to serve at WCC governing body meetings.
Such meetings provide many opportunities for "on the job" ecumenical formation. Stewards may also participate
in other events. The leadership training seminars equip young people with skills and resources to continue their
work on issues important to the churches at the regional and local levels.
Your previous travels in a youth rep capacity have included trips to....
National Church Youth Convention (NCYC) held in Melbourne, Australia
Pacific Christian Youth Convention (PCYC) held in Toloa, Tonga
Your current employment / role?
Working for Victoria University
Parish Administrator of the Hutt City Uniting Congregations (HCUC) Parish
One half of NYLO :)
Studies
BA from Victoria University
Currently studying Theology - University of Otago
Page 26 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012
FAREWELL FROM COMMS
Firstly, all praise and acknowledgement goes to our Father for being an awesome and loving God in
our lives. Thank you for making things possible and guiding us daily, we wouldn't be able to do the
things we do without You. Lord, we give everything back to You.
This newsletter has been an achievement for us all. Initiated in 2009, the newsletter continues to live
on...
BIG THANK YOU TO...
NYLO (Filo and Edna) - thank you for being supportive and patient with us, keeping us in line and of
course your contributions to the newsletter. You have both been an inspiration to all Sinoti tupulaga!
We wish you all the best for the future!
To ALL tupulaga, thank you for your contributions to the newsletter (even though they are late at
times!) but we do eventually receive them :) Apologies that the e-newsletter has ended up being sent
out twice a year rather than four times a year, but I know we’ll get there in the end.
To whoever is elected to form the new Comms Komiti—we wish you all the very best and know you will
carry on the work of keeping our tupulaga brothers and sisters connected to the best of your ability.
From the Comms Komiti 2009-12, it has been our pleasure serving you all.
God bless
JOSHARONISE
(Josh, Sharon and Lise :)
Page 27 Sinoti Tupulaga Newsletter, Issue No.5, June 2012