Last week, the Bluwave team was commissioned by the Atanoa family from Siumu, Samoa, to cover the prestigious Kings Ava and Chief Title bestowment ceremony, hosted by the village of Siumu. A team from Bluwave’s New Zealand office collaborated closely with the Bluwave Samoa office, as well as with Kingdom Productions and Samoa Video Production, to document the event preparations through daily updates from the village.
In conversation with Atanoa Tusi Faafetai, the head chief for the Sa Atanoa family in Maninoa Siumu, we learned that the village of Siumu had been meticulously rehearsing for over two months. However, preparations encountered challenges, particularly awaiting confirmation from the Commonwealth and the Samoan government regarding the King’s participation. With the ceremony absent from the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting’s official program, it remained a private event, exclusive to Siumu.
Arriving in Siumu just five days before the event, the Bluwave team witnessed the villagers’ unwavering dedication, practicing through mixed weather conditions that alternated between scorching sun and sudden rain showers. In temperatures soaring over 30 degrees Celsius, the entire village rallied with enthusiasm, enduring long hours of practice to perfect every detail. Anticipation grew as the first highlight reel was shared on BluwaveTV’s online platforms, offering a global audience a glimpse of the grandeur expected on Saturday, October 27th.
On the morning of the ceremony, the sun initially shone brightly over the Faletelē in Siumu, which had been lavishly decorated with a red carpet unfurled, ready to welcome His Majesty King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Clad in traditional attire, the people of Siumu took their places, waiting in anticipation. However, as the clock neared 10:00 AM, the skies opened, releasing a deluge accompanied by fierce winds that battered the media tent and drenched the equipment and red carpet. Despite the unrelenting rain, the people of Siumu remained steadfast at their posts, embodying resilience and pride as they awaited the arrival of the King.
The event saw Laaulialemalietoa Polataivao Fosi Schmidt serving as the official Representative of the Government, while the Member of Parliament for Siumu, Tuuʻu Anasii Leota, was among the honoured speakers. The keynote address was delivered by the Saʻo of the Sa Atanoa Family, Atanoa Tusi Faafetai, who spoke passionately on behalf of the family and village.
Following the formalities, the King graciously thanked the village of Siumu for their extraordinary hospitality, noting the daily gestures of kindness extended to him and his entourage, who were staying at Sinalei—located directly opposite the venue. The villagers had brought breakfast and gifts daily, a warm tradition that left a deep impression on the royal guests.
Every formality, speech, and performance was executed with flawless precision, leaving a profound impression on those in attendance. For the people of Siumu, this day stood as a testament to their dedication and cultural pride, showcasing their heritage with dignity and grace.
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