Birthday Reflection: A Memorable Week on the Beautiful Island of Samoa

This week, which also happens to be my birthday week, I had the opportunity to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in the beautiful Island nation of Samoa. This CHOGM was not only a time of personal celebration but also a profound learning experience, filled with unforgettable moments, engaging discussions, and new connections.

Arriving in Samoa:

My journey to Samoa was quite the adventure—a 35-hour flight that seemed to take me back and forth across time zones! Traveling from London to Los Angeles, then to Fiji, and finally landing in Samoa was a whirlwind of airports, cultures, and landscapes. But the exhaustion quickly dissipated the moment I stepped off the plane and took in the warm tropical air of Samoa.

One of the first things I noticed on the ride to my hotel was the peaceful and festive atmosphere. The streets were lined with the flags of all Commonwealth countries, fluttering proudly in the island breeze. It wasn’t just symbolic—it felt like a warm and inclusive welcome to every participant. Houses painted in vibrant colours. Painted coconuts, a whimsical touch, were displayed along the roadsides, adding to the charm of this small but vibrant island nation.

The People of Samoa:

The hospitality of the Samoan people was a highlight of my trip. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with kindness and warmth. Learning to say “Talofa,” meaning hello, instantly connected me with locals as everyone’s faces would light up as they heard the word.

I found it intriguing when the Samoan Prime Minister, Fiamē Naomi Mata?afa at the opening ceremony told participants that the word ‘Talofa’ with a smile greeting is an initiative of the public service commission to remind public servants of customer service, most importantly to get them to come back to the basic understanding that they are public servants i.e. ‘servants of the public’ and not ‘bosses’!. This is a powerful reminder of what leadership should truly be about.

The Samoan culture, deeply rooted in respect, community and faith, was evident in every interaction I had. Whether at official CHOGM events or in casual conversations with locals, the warmth of the Samoan people was unwavering. Each session began with a public officer introducing it in the local language. The opening session of the people's forum commenced with a prayer, and during the final session, we were pleasantly surprised when the Samoan participants spontaneously broke into prayer, singing a gospel song that moved some attendees to tears.

Their generosity was equally remarkable. When I asked why they go out of their way to be so kind, I was touched by their response: "We do good so that others will return that good to our children." This deep sense of community and forward-thinking kindness left an impression on me.

Memorable Meetings

I had the chance to meet up close with the outgoing Commonwealth Secretary General - The Rt Hon?Patricia Scotland and the Director General of the Commonwealth Foundation - Dr Anne T. Gallagher. I enjoyed some great local dishes such as Taro and?sushi.?We also enjoyed an opening and closing reception full of cultural display and dance. I must not forget the CHOGM Christmas song taught by one of the moderators which goes like this: ‘On the first hour of Christmas, the Commonwealth gave to me, a Peoples Forum shaping what will be’

Key Takeaways from CHOGM 2024.

At CHOGM, discussions focused on Freedom of Expression, Health Justice, and Climate Justice. The emphasis on media freedom and access to information laws, highlighted the shrinking civic space across the Commonwealth. I appreciated the active involvement of youth in discussions, signaling the importance of their role in shaping the future of the Commonwealth. Speakers recommended that youth participation in decision-making processes be prioritised, and I couldn’t agree more!

The message from civil society organisations @CHOGM 2024 was clear.

To the commonwealth:

1. Genuine commonwealth-wide commitment to protect civic space and free expression

2. Consistent credible civil society involvement in commonwealth processes

3. Real, measurable action on climate change including delivery of climate finance to small island and vulnerable states.

4. Commonwealth-wide action to build and sustain resilient, accessible health systems

To governments:

5. New and better laws to protect civic space and free expression.

6. Greater public scrutiny of legislation.

7. Long-term, capital investment in the public realm

8. Net-zero emissions by 2050.

Final Thoughts

As I reflect on this week and prepare to return, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to immerse myself in the rich culture of Samoa and connect with fellow advocates. Samoa, with its breathtaking beauty and generous people, provided the perfect backdrop for these important connections. And as I finish off my birthday week in this beautiful Island, I feel both inspired and hopeful for the future of the Commonwealth.

"Talofa," as they say in Samoa - a simple greeting that encapsulates the warmth, hospitality, and spirit of a country that now holds a special place in my heart.