Talanoa Talk Now

Continue to listen to Paulia Pelenato on behalf of DHSS, as she shares more on services that DHSS continues to provide for the community. She shares success stories as a team and department in moving forward with the work, the kind of impact their work has on the community, how important wellness is to the work they do and how they as a department practice self-care and wellness. She discusses more on how DHSS as a representative of government, intervenes for families.

Anyone and everyone should listen to Paulia Pelenato, assistant director for DHSS, share about all the services they provide for the people of Tutuila and Manu'a. This podcast reveals why DHSS is all about connecting the community to services and resources that they require and are available within the community, and how they are all about providing the best services for our people whether indirectly or not, providing comprehensive resources in the field of human and social services. This is part 1, so make sure not to miss part 2. More to come!

The Alliance sets out to highlight the work of its many partners, and this episode features the work, vision & mission of Back on Track (BOT). Executive Director of BOT shares the story that laid the foundation for the work of BOT and how it has grown over time. She talks about the organization's specific goals and objectives and how effective it has been in achieving its mission, as well as the many programs and services that the organization provides in service to the community. Mona shares some of the risks and challenges that BOT faces today and her plan to overcome them and move forward. Dont miss out on this podcast and learn more information on the work of BOT here in American Samoa and how victims can be supported.

2023 Summer Internship Program(SIP) participants share their stories about their experiences, work, and learned lessons while spending their summer interning at the Alliance. They also share how the internships aligned with their career goals and aspirations, and whether their expectations were met, in terms of learning and professional development opportunities. How challenges or obstacles were addressed, gained skills and knowledge and beneficial learning opportunities, how the internship contributed to their personal and professional growth, and the approach to diversity and inclusion based on their experience as an intern were all vital parts of this discussion that the interns touched on while sharing their stories.

American Samoa's very own Dr Kuini Tuaau graduated from California Baptist University with her doctoral degree and has translated into the Samoan language a 'train the trainers' training workbook on eliminating child sexual assault within our community. Join us and understand the Dr's perspective on how using our Samoan language can help eliminate child sexual violence.

ASADSV in collaboration with Mary Bordonaro, owner, and founder of Malaga Creative Co, create workshops for the community including survivors/victims of violence and those who are interested in learning about journaling and poetry and how it can help you cope with trauma, practice self-care and thrive. Listen to how we as great storytellers are able to journal and own our stories for our wellness and self-care.

Project Specialist Karallyn Fitisone shares on updates of the Faafafine Rural Project which focuses on the faafafine community of American Samoa. Fitisone shares on goals of the project that included investigating and gathering information on this populations experiences of violence and their needs of support. This project also focuses on the experiences of those servicing this population, their experiences, training, thoughts on faafafine experiencing violence, the community addressing the needs of faafafines and how to address their needs. Listen and learn of the many challenges and achievements that this underserved population continues to go thru, and how we as a community can support them.

Researcher Karallyn Fitisone shares information on her research as well as her experience as a young Pacific islander researcher faced with several challenges and how she overcame them all while going to school at the same time.   She shares how her work is distinct from that of others, and the impacts she hopes her research will have on the youth of Am. Samoa.  This is a great 'listen to' for upcoming and raising young researchers of the territory as Karallyn has a lot of great information and advice to be used.

Talanoa Talk Now sits down with advocates Dr. Celestine Nix, Mona Uli, and Farrah Sefo, all 3 who represented American Samoa thru the Alliance, at the Praxis International Advocacy Training.  Praxis International Inc. is a nonprofit corporation, that works towards the elimination of violence and offers advocacy learning with the Advocacy Learning Center(ALC) in partnership with the Office on Violence Against Women.  Being the only Samoans at this training, these advocates were able to share the vital parts of this 18-month training designed to strengthen advocacy programs, and how it strengthens their advocacy work today, especially during the many new norms since the pandemic, moving forward with the work and advocacy thru challenging work environments, and much more.  Be sure to listen in and learn more about Praxis International thru the lens of Samoan female advocates who understand the importance of strong networking when serving and supporting victims of violence.  

Bet you didn't know American Samoa has a stalking law?  Tapumanaia Galu Satele shares how stalking is criminalized in American Samoa under code annotated 46.3525, what it means, and the Samoan terms we use to describe the law versus terms more commonly used.  Satele shares with Talanoa Talk Now what stalking can escalate to as well as some of the misperceptions that we as Samoans hold about stalking behavior, and how our cultural values and practices influence our perceptions of stalking.  Make sure you tune in to learn more about our stalking law.

Executive Director of Catholic Social Service, Mrs. Nancy Tagaloa sheds light on the work and services they provide for those in need of support, especially when faced with challenges within families, individuals, etc.  She shares about who they serve and the empowerment and awareness which is key to their work and the support of others.  Make sure to tune in and listen in on this discussion, on some of the work of one of the faith-based community non-profit organizations, and how they support the entire community of American Samoa.  

Ms American Samoa 2021-22, Hani Fuimaono shares on her interests and goals on advocating for mental health, self-worth, and self-love, in her capacity as the reigning beauty queen.  She describes what she believes what it means to be a modern woman and the qualities a Samoan woman should possess to make a notable difference, as well as sharing some of the best and simple ways to promote empowerment.  Be sure to listen in on what Ms American Samoa is up to! 

O se faatalanoaga i le leitio o le polokalame o vaiaso taitasi o le MO LOU SILAFIA, na mafai ona faasoa mai ai le atunuu i le tulaga o le atuatuvale ma le popole vale ao tapena atu ma le feagai ai ma aso fiafia i totonu o aiga aemaise foi nofoaga eseese.  Faafofoga i le faasoa mai o nisi e faatatau i mafuaaga o le atuatuvale aemaise o metotia ma vaifofo e mafai ona alofia ai lea faafitauli e ono faatupu ma'i foi mo nisi ma o lo o sauaina ai foi nisi.  Le tatou polokalame masani i aso Lua o vaiaso taitasi i le gagana Samoa, o lo o faatalanoaina ai mataupu eseese ma soalaupule ai Amerika Samoa.  

Marcella Fitisone, founder of BROWN SISTERS CLUB shares on the vision and mission of the club, and how it is impacting today's youth.  Fitisone explains how the need for the club was determined and who the club serves, as well as plans for moving forward and expanding into other local high schools.  She shares on the challenges, processes, and support that she has experienced as she works on serving her community thru high school students.  Brown Sisters Club is leading discussions for change and empowering and inspiring students in reforming the norm.   Make sure to listen to this inspiring educator and see how you can support the community thru BROWN SISTERS CLUB.  

Elizabeth Mailo of Mana Community Support Services shares with Talanoa Talk Now about the challenges and benefits of providing caregiving services in a community with strong cultural beliefs on families caring for their own without outside support.  This interview with Liz is an eye opener and provides so much information and reasoning why caregiving services can still work within our community and prolong the lives and wellbeing of our loved ones and elders.  Make sure to tune in and check out how Mana Community Support Services is supporting the community.

O SE FAATALANOAGA MAI LE POLOKALAME O LE LEITIO O LE 'MO LOU SILAFIA', TAITAIA E JUDY MATAUTIA MA ENOKA TUPAI.  NA MAFAI ONA FAASOA MAI LE ATUNUU I LE TAUSIGA MA LE SAUAINA O TAGATA MATUTUA I TOTONU O AIGA, AEMAISE O NISI O LUITAU, TIUTE MA LE MATAFAIOI O FANAU MA AIGA I LE GAFATAULIMAINA O LATOU MATUA I TOTONU O AIGA SAMOA TAITASI. 

Laughing Samoan Eteuati Ete and wife Mele Wendt are a brave and inspiring pair, who bare it all with TALANOA TALK NOW on family violence.  The courageous couple was not laughing when they shared on the turbulent early years of their marriage, addressing their shame and fear, their process of self-healing and wellness, how they help to educate and support communities in hopes their story will help make a difference for many other families who are going thru such an experience.  A story of healing on how this couple, side by side is on a journey to help families address family violence by sharing their story at conferences around New Zealand and advocating for those who have and still are going through the hardships of family violence.

Se tasi foi lenei o faatalanoaga i le polokalame o le leitio o le MO LOU SILAFIA, na mafai ona faapupula atili ai e Judy Matautia mai Le Mau, le taua o le faatumauina o le soifua manuia ina ia maua ai pea le soifua maloloina faale-mafaufau, aemaise o lona sootaga i le faaitiitia o sauaga i totonu o aiga.  Another one of our weekly radio show MO LOU SILAFIA (FYI), where our host Judy Matautia discusses the importance of wellness and the connection to mental health, and its role in violence prevention.  

The dialogue continues with the transgender community on gender equality, some of the barriers and challenges they face in todays society especially in a cultural community.  Founder of IMPACT and college educator, Jayleen Chun talks about her work in empowering and reminding young transgender adults of their value and resilience.  This is part 2 of a 2 part series.

We cannot move forward on gender equality without including members of the transgender community. Jayleen Chun, founder of IMPACT, a new organization that supports young transgender members, shares on some of the challenges including gender inequality, that young and all members of the transgender community face in todays society including our very own community. As an educator, Jayleen aspires to promote our Samoan language to include terms and language that enables our community to identify with and recognize transgender members with their own gender identity. This is part 1 of a 2 part series.

Se faatalanoaga lenei a le polokalame o le leitio ua taua o le MO LOU SILAFIA, taitaia e Judy Matautia mai Le Mau, ma DJ Tupa'i o le alaleo faakerisiano o le KPPO.  I lenei polokalame na mafai ona faatalanoaina ai ma faasoa mai ai foi le atunuu i sauaga i faiga uo o tupulaga talavou ma ona a'afiaga i le fanau talavou i lenei vaitau.  Here is one of the weekly sessions of our radio show MO LOU SILAFIA (FYI) hosted by Judy Matautia & DJ Tupa'i of KPPO Radio Station 90.50FM.  In this discussion the community was able to share on teen dating violence and its impact on todays youth.

Talanoa Talk Now was able to connect with the Matagi Siblings, Naomi & Sipili who were one of the winners at the 2020 Pacific Roots Open Mic.  The siblings shared on preparing for this event and how the motivational support of families was an integral part of their preparation.  They share how their winning piece 'STAY ON THE LINE' has changed their lives, and how it allows them to work with the community especially the youth.  A tale of how local young artists are reaching out to the community thru their spoken word.  

Kiso Skelton, a son and upcoming young leader of the territory discusses with Talanoa Talk Now his future plans of returning home and becoming a public servant.  He shares his views on social justice and gender equality, and admits to his strengths or his many positions of leadership in which he utilizes for the benefit of the oppressed and those marginalized.  An inspirational story of a young man's journey to gain knowledge and experience, and whose heart has always been at home no matter where he goes, in order to prepare himself to return and better serve his people.   

Part 2 of a 2 part series with Fofo County Rep Andra Samoa as she continues the discussion on gender based violence and new and upcoming projects.  

Part 1 of a 2 part series with Fofo County Rep Andra Samoa. Talanoa Talk Now was able to discuss gender based violence with the only female rep in the American Samoa legislation.  This discussion included some of the challenges a woman faces today in the political arena, whether or not our Samoan culture has a role in inspiring women to become leaders within their communities, and Rep Samoa's aspiring work within her community, district and village.

United States Congresswoman Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen proudly representing American Samoa sits down for a podcast with the Alliance team.  She shares on gender equality within our culture and community, growing up as a child in American Samoa, her shared and intimate moments with her father, the first Samoan governor of American Samoa, the late Honorable Uifaatali Peter Coleman, her persistency in becoming congresswoman and how serving her people is an honor to her.  A 'must listen to' as the congresswoman invites us into her realm.

Gabby Langkilde is an intern at the American Samoa Alliance against Domestic & Sexual Violence.  Born and raised in American Samoa, she is a rising senior at Harvard College.  She is studying Sociology and Studies of Women, Gender, and Sexuality.  Her research interests revolve around gender dynamics in the South Pacific and she is looking to write her senior thesis revolving around domestic violence in American Samoa.   

She lives in the SF Bay Area and is a daughter of Samoa.  She is founder of Pacific Islander Community Partnership (PICP), as well as founder of Camp Unity Polynesian Inspired Summer Enrichment Program.  In response to many Samoan youth who were raised stateside and had never been to the islands, Manufou brought the islands to them by creating a summer enrichment program which focused on Pacific Island culture.  The many youth found a connection to their roots.  The program is quite successful in helping youth find their identity as Pacific Islanders and taking pride in their rich cultural heritage.  That is just one of hats that Manufou wears.  She also sits on various Boards of Directors and School Boards.  She is a Commissioner at the San Mateo County Commission on the Status of Women.  She is a Commissioner at Personnel Board City of Daly City.  And last but not least, she is a Head Start Management Fellow at UCLA Anderson School of Management.

Ipu Lefiti, victim advocate for Catholic Social Services in American Samoa.  Ipu shares on the important work of assistance and support for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse.  She also talks about the challenges and barriers that can oftentimes dissuade victims from reporting.

special guest Tuiloma Sina Retzlaff founder & president of Samoa's Global News joins the Alliance podcast team for a very informative discussion  on the updates between the 2 Samoas during COVID19 and the rise of violence within the communities.

March is Gender Equality Month, therefore, we are spotlighting female leadership.  Ms. Li'a Seui is the Executive Director and Founder of Intersections, Inc. here in American Samoa.  Intersections, Inc. was founded in 2002 and is about strengthening and empowering youth and their families by providing opportunities for social growth, skills, and academic development.

Because the American Samoa Legal Aid office had some great information to share on this radio show, we wanted to share it as one of our podcasts.  Joining us here from ASLA is Jesse Berrenfeld, and he spoke on ASLA's services on supporting and assisting victims of teen dating violence.  The Alliance works in collaboration with ASLA in making sure that victims of violence get the right information and the assistance they need to support them when affected by violence.   

Follow up discussion with Iutita Snow who attended the Workplace Bullying workshop and wished to share her real life experience working with those who were victims of workplace bullying.  Iutita shares her disappointment on how she experienced this within our own local setting and how she was able to assist and support those affected by workplace bullying.  A 'must' listen to experience.

Part 2 of 2 series on Workplace Bullying.  In part 2 prevention is discussed and tools to assist workplaces on how they too can be part of the support system.  How our culture seem to make its way into our workplaces, and why so many lose their voices when they are faced with abuse at work.  How as people do we process our feelings and emotions to be able to understand what is happening to us, within our surroundings.  Again Robert Toelupe clears alot of issues here that end up making perfect sense.  This is a must listen to, so make sure you do.

This is part 1 of a 2 part series on workplace bullying.  Special guests is Robert Toelupe of our local VA Center & Clinic who shared a great deal of information on the topic of workplace bullying at a cultural level.  The discussion was able to define what workplace bullying is, how does workplace bullying happen, the signs and effects of workplace bullying at work and outside of work, and what can be done to stop or prevention of workplace bullying.  

It's January and it is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.  Talanoa Now was able to interview agents from the American Samoa Government Department of Homeland Security, Lead Special Agent for Human Trafficking Paea Toeava, Special Agent for the Narcotics Unit Jacob Fano, and Special Agent for the Terrorism Unit Scotland Elisara.  Listen as they share what human trafficking looks like in American Samoa, and more so on a cultural level, who can help victims, and the laws that support victims of human trafficking in our territory.

Published on: December 11, 2019 at 3 PM

Listen to how a small village community responded and supported the victim, looked out for unusual signs or behaviour from the victim, and how the community is putting into action the awareness that they have, by believing in the victim and not victim blaming the children.  Learn how Fagasa Elementary School staff helped and the importance of Mandated Reporting, and how to improve on our efforts to help and support victims when we suspect one is being abused.  

Co host:  Judy Matautia, Eleanor Sogialofa, Elizabeth Mailo, Marilyn Ho Ching

Elizabeth Mailo founder of Mana Community Support Services (MCSS), speaks of her work with mana health, and how its important that we stay well for the benefit of those that we try to help.  Liz shares her story, her struggles, her healing, and her passion for her work, especially working with our local community where there is so much stigma and less awareness within families to help support family members with mana health issues.  

Elizabeth (Liz) Mailo, founder of Mana Comunity Support Services(MCSS)

Co-host:  Judy Matautia, Marilyn Ho Ching, Frances Thomsen (Alliance staff)

Learn how using Poetry Slam can help participants create safe spaces to talk about domestic and sexual violence, as well as other important issues.  Hear from Avery Maloata, Poetry Slam participant perspective on the difficulties of connecting with parents and their children.  The impact of technology and its role in cyberbullying promoting hate in today's youth.  He shares the difficulty of being Samoan to be respectful, in the days of cyberbullying and technology.  

 American Samoa Community College students Avery Maloata and Eleanor Sogialofa.

(Co-hosts:  Judy Matautia and Mona Uli)

Learn as we talk about Intimate Partner Violence, what that is, and the difference between domestic and family violence in American Samoa.  We focus on cultural view to domestic violence, what is the Va Tapuia and how impacts domestic and sexual violence.  Learn more about what the word "bystander" means, and how the kids at Tafuna High School helped.  We encourage those to participate and learn more about domestic violence to combat violence. 

Through this discussion, you will learn about colonization in American Samoa, and how it impacted the Fa'aSamoa.  We share about our matai systems, the change our gender roles through religion and whats the impact of DV in American Samoa

What it's like doing advocacy work in Samoa and American Samoa.