Samoan Language Week at Orewa College featured heartfelt performances and student leadership celebrating Pacific identity.

Student performances and speeches brought culture and confidence to the spotlight

Orewa College was bursting with colour, rhythm, and pride for Samoan Language Week. Our Year 7–10 students took the stage at Red Beach School to perform a beautiful Siva and a lively Fa’ataupati (slap dance). For many, it was their first time performing but you’d never guess it from the confidence they showed. The crowd loved it, and our performers represented Orewa College with pride.

Back at school, the celebrations continued through every assembly. A group of our Year 9–12 ākonga performed a Siva at each year level gathering, bringing powerful energy and connection to the space. Bethany Marriott, Year 12, spoke at each assembly about what it means to her to be Proud to be Pasifika, a moving kōrero inspired by the Young, Free & Pacific conference, where this year’s theme was Take Your Place.

Our kura is proud of the way these young people stood tall in their identity and shared it with us all.

📷 Photo credit: Jo Hayward