On Friday 6th June, Rutherford College made history by holding its first formal ‘ava ceremony, a sacred and powerful tradition within Samoan culture. The ‘ava ceremony, is an important cultural ritual where the sacred drink of ‘ava is prepared and served in a highly structured, respectful and ceremonial way. It is used to mark special occasions, honour leaders and uphold the values of unity, respect and service within the community. 

To close off Samoan language week for 2025, our Pasefika Komiti, which I am proudly part of, felt it was only right to end this act of cultural celebration and connection. It was more than just a ceremony, it was a moment of identity, of pride and of history being made. I would especially like to acknowledge the teachers who helped bring this vision to life: Mrs Taula and Miss Tolova’a with the support of Mr Solomone, Mr Talamaivao, Miss Selu, Mr Tagaloa, Malissa Tagaloa, Mr Matai’a and Miss Yates. Their support, knowledge and belief in our Pasefika students allowed this milestone event to take place.

For our senior leadership team, it was their first time ever participating in such a formal and structured ‘ava ceremony. For Rutherford College, it was the first time this event had ever happened on our grounds. I was deeply honoured to be chosen to open the ceremony, not just to speak, but to witness, feel and stand in that sacred space surrounded by the essence of our culture. The emotion in the room was heavy but beautiful. There was mana. There was reverence. There was pride that reached across generations. 

As I sat in the ‘ava ceremony, I was reminded of a Samoan proverb that speaks directly to the heart of the moment. “E sui faiga ae tumau fa’avae”. Methods change, but foundations remain the same. Though we are young people growing up in a modern world, the values and foundations passed down by our ancestors remain solid: Respect, service, leadership, love for our culture and ‘aiga. 

The ‘ava ceremony at Rutherford College was not only an event; it was a reminder that Pasefika identity has a place in all spaces, even in formal school settings. It was a celebration of language, legacy and leadership. May this be the first of many! 

by AJ Muliaga