Meet Amanda

How has your heritage shaped the person you are today?

There’s a heavy matriarchy in Samoan culture. Because of this it has definitely influenced how I run my household and work life. I feel the need to have things, my children, and even my husband in order. I am constantly organizing my work tasks to fit my thinking and don’t hesitate when it comes to providing opinions or feedback. I have learned that I cannot control all things and therefore allow my husband to make decisions, well at least once in a while.

Does your family have any traditions that are especially important to you?

So my family is very blended and we don’t primarily focus on Samoan traditions. I have been influenced by a lot of Polynesian cultures. One thing that is common in all of the cultures is the importance of music. This isn’t your typical tradition, however we strongly feel music guides us. Musical learning is prominent in every subject taught. It is also common to have performances at any gathering including funerals. Whether it be religion, coping skills, gatherings, or just for fun music helps me through it all.