This afternoon, we were one of many people who were touched and impacted in attendance to celebrate the short and incredible life of Faʻanānā Efeso Collins.
Faʻanānā was a great friend and inspiration to our director, Louise Tu’u, who she knew from university in the 1990s. Louise was also his election campaign manager for the 2023 General Election, which was a high honour, humbling and filled with hilarity. A collective campaign effort, starting with Faʻanānā’s tight-knit aiga of his wife, Vasa Fia and daughters Kaperiela ma Asalemo and aiga potopoto/extended family, friends and voters ensured Faʻanānā entered Parliament, as the second Pasifika Green Party MP.
Almost two weeks ago, Faʻanānā gave his maiden speech but also due to his sudden death, served now as his valedictory. Below are moments of the amazing celebration, guided expertly by Taito Eddie Tuiavii and many standout tributes. The final solemn and profound eulogy came from Fa’anana’s wife, Vasa Fia Collins, standing onstage with their two daughters.
Fa’afetai tele lava Faʻanānā for your loving friendship and guidance. We miss you very much and blessed in having known and worked with you. Ia manuia le malaga Faʻanānā.
Auē, ua māliliu toa, ua maumau ai āupega o le taua
Oh, how the mighty have fallen, alas, the weapons of victory now lie abandoned
We Should Practice 